LOOK BACK WITH DBN GOGO: THE PULSE NEVER STOPS

This summer, WNDRLST had the pleasure of sitting down with the electrifying DBN Gogo, a name that has become synonymous with the pulsating energy of Amapiano. Fresh off her historic performance as the first Amapiano artist to headline the Somerset Series Summer Series, DBN Gogo’s presence at the event was not just a milestone for her, but a testament to the genre’s unstoppable rise on the global music stage.

Amapiano, a genre born from the streets of South Africa, has evolved over the last six years from a local sensation into a global phenomenon. Its infectious rhythms and deep basslines have transcended borders, resonating with audiences across continents. At the heart of this movement is DBN Gogo, a trailblazer who understands that Amapiano is more than just music—it’s a powerful experience that touches the soul. She set out to make her Somerset Series performance a journey for the audience, one where they would hear the familiar, the unexpected, the overplayed, and the undiscovered, all in one electrifying set.

DBN GOGO at Somerset House Summer Series. (13th July 2024)

As she prepared for the show, DBN Gogo emphasised the importance of mental preparation and intuition in her craft. With her last performance in London being in November 2023, she felt a deep responsibility to deliver something unforgettable. "I wanted to take them back a bit," she reflected, acknowledging the long hiatus. The night unfolded beyond her expectations, with the crowd embracing her every move, chanting along, and surrendering to the beats that commanded them to dance. It was clear that she had achieved her goal: to connect deeply with her audience and create a space where music could be both heard and felt.

What made the night even more special was the diverse lineup that DBN Gogo brought to the stage. She highlighted the contributions of Slow Poison, an open-format DJ who, while not strictly an Amapiano artist, brought a unique blend of house music and an understanding of the London scene. This blend, she noted, was crucial in aligning with both Amapiano enthusiasts and the broader Somerset crowd. The collaboration showcased her ability to bridge different musical worlds, enhancing the richness of the event.

Mellow and Sleazy at Somerset House Summer Series (13th July 2024)

DBN Gogo’s vision for Amapiano extends far beyond just her performances. She is passionate about creating opportunities for other artists, and her excitement about bringing Mellow and Sleazy to London was palpable. Their presence added another layer of depth to the night, giving the audience a taste of Amapiano’s versatility. When asked who she would love to see perform in the UK next, her answer was immediate: KMAT, an incredibly versatile DJ whom she believes could captivate the UK audience with ease.

For DBN Gogo, Amapiano is not just music; it’s a spiritual experience that resonates deeply with its listeners. "Music is very spiritual; it does something to you even when you don’t understand it," she explained, capturing the inexplicable yet powerful connection that Amapiano creates. Whether it’s the intricate grooves of Kelvin Momo or the heavy basslines of Mellow and Sleazy, the music stirs something within, a feeling that transcends language and logic. It’s this spiritual essence that has helped Amapiano capture hearts worldwide.

This genre demands more from its DJs than just spinning records. In Amapiano, DJs are performers, producers, and dancers, all at once. DBN Gogo believes this multifaceted approach is key to pushing the boundaries of the genre. "We’re at a stage where DJs are doing what they want and really enjoying themselves on stage," she said, highlighting the importance of versatility in creating memorable performances. For her, the ability to wear many hats is not just an asset, but a necessity in keeping the genre dynamic and engaging.

As she looks to the future, DBN Gogo is committed to introducing new talent and pushing Amapiano into even more diverse spaces. "It is house music after all," she noted, hinting at the genre’s potential to influence and be influenced by a wide array of musical styles. Her vision includes more collaborations and an even greater global impact, with Amapiano finding its place in unexpected corners of the world.

London, she reminisced, played a pivotal role in Amapiano’s global journey. Post-lockdown, it was one of the first cities to embrace the genre with open arms. Promoters, even without fully understanding the movement, recognised its power and wanted to bring it to life on their stages. "They just knew they needed us," she laughed, recalling the early days of Amapiano’s rise in the UK. Since then, London has remained a vital hub for the genre, a city where Amapiano’s heartbeat is strong and unwavering.

As Amapiano continues its global ascent, DBN Gogo stands at its forefront, blending tradition with innovation, and ensuring that the genre’s spirit resonates far and wide. Her performances are more than just shows—they are immersive experiences that invite the audience to feel, move, and connect with the music on a deeper level. With her at the helm, the future of Amapiano looks brighter than ever, with endless possibilities waiting to be explored.