In the “mix” with Bob’Ezy
We all know Bob’Ezy is super nice with the mixes as he is recognised by both colleagues and listeners to be one of the premier mix-masters on the local scene.
Born Fanie Bongani Mahlangu in Mpumalanga, Bob’Ezy fuses Kwaito, Tribal, Deep and Soulful elements into formidable grooves such as “Money Maker” the 2008 smash hit he co-produced with DJ Menace and Smallz.
More recently he has produced memorable tracks such as “Close to You” featuring Sinai as well as “Busa” one of the standout tracks of 2014 that he co-produced with Euphonik and featured the vocals of Mpumi.
It is however his blazing mixes dropped across different radio stations that have seen the laid back turntable whizz remain relevant in an industry that’s always looking for the newest kid on the block.
I try get as many unknown tracks as possible from underground producers because I hate doing mixes with tracks that are already on the playlist.”
We chat to Bob about his formula for putting out a never-ending stream of hot mixes, being mentored by Dr Duda as well as straddling the worlds of DJing and production.
Your mixes have become quite popular. Tell us a bit about them such as how long they take you to make and the things you consider when putting them together?
They take me a week to complete.
I try get as many unknown tracks as possible from underground producers because I hate doing mixes with tracks that are already on the playlist.
Keeping up such a schedule of unending mixes and productions must be hectic! What gives you the energy to keep going?
Yeah!
I try to keep my mixes and my production always available for the masses to enjoy.
Support from people is what keeps me going.
How do you make sure that each mix remains of a high quality?
I take my time on production.
I’m also the kind of person who’s always learning new things every day.
Emerging DJs are under pressure to release mixes that catch listeners attention.
As a “mix-master” what would you advise them in terms of creating a killer mix?
Have your own style.
Mixes represent what kind of a DJ you are.
Your mixes used to feature quite prominently on My House, the 5FM radio show you used to be part of with DJ Euphonik. What did you enjoy the most about working with him?
Learning about the business side of things.
He [Euphonik] is one guy who will teach you the business side of the industry
DJ Ganyani played a big role in influencing my sound. His style and approach towards the music industry also influenced me.”
“Money Maker” your 2008 release made waves across the Southern African region. What are some of the things you remember about making this track?
Playing a R100 000 gig and being paid R2 000 by my manager!
You first professional break came after you met with Dr Duda. Where exactly did you meet and how did he go on to become your first DJing mentor?
I met Duda in 2003 as we lived in the same kasi (high-density suburb) of Kwandebele in a placed called Mathysloop.
After we met he introduced me to DJing.
What made you decide to evolve your DJing skills to become a producer?
I was tired of playing other people’s music and I wanted to have my own productions.
What production “secrets” did you learn from Dr Duda?
He taught me how to work people’s emotions through the music.
What are some of the advantages of being able to produce as well as DJ?
It’s easy to sustain your brand in the industry because people get to know you through your music.
Which other producers, DJ’s and artists have also influenced you in coming up with your own unique sound?
DJ Ganyani played a big role in influencing my sound.
His style and approach towards the music industry also influenced me.
Over the past few years your sound has evolved to become more soulful/melodic. What has brought about this change?
Every year I try and keep up with changes and styles in music.
As for my sound being soulful, it’s because I love to touch people’s emotions.
You are highly respected by fellow DJs and producers, yet despite this you are very laidback (not much about you is in the media). What made you to decide to take this chilled approach?
My music speaks for me.
Being respected in the game means that you don’t need to be all over for the wrong things such as scandals.
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m working on my studio album which should be dropping in June 2017.
It seems that due to aggressive marketing and publicity Hip Hop is making some huge strides on the SA music scene. What are some of the things you feel the House Music community can learn from their colleagues in Hip Hop?
The unity in Hip Hop.
This is one thing I feel we lack on the House Music scene.
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