'Afrotainment: Sgubhu Sase Dubane' explores DJ Tira's rise from rural roots to South Africa’s music icon

Published Dec 10, 2024

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A new three-part documentary series 'Afrotainment: Sgubhu Sase Dubane' is set to dive deep into DJ Tira’s journey from the rural hills of KwaHlabisa to the global stage.

From a 15-year-old dreamer in rural KwaZulu-Natal to the mastermind behind Afrotainment, DJ Tira’s rise has been anything but easy. 

“I wanted to go straight to the point and show people where I am coming from, not to show them how I am living right now,” he explained to IOL why he chose a documentary series instead of a reality show.

One can not think of the South African music and entertainment industry without thinking of DJ Tira; after all, he is at the heart of Mzansi’s music scene.

“It was all about telling people where I am from, so people can see what it took for us to bring this vibe to Durban to grow the entertainment industry and make the city rock."

Over his lengthy career, DJ Tira has been recognised at some of the country's top music awards such as the Metro FM Music Awards, South African Music Awards and the  KZN Entertainment Awards. 

“My story has to be told, it was important for me to do this documentary in collaboration with a music channel leading in South Africa," he said.

"It was a good collaboration, I’m happy that I've got this opportunity to tell my story and inspire other people still coming up in the industry.”

Afrotainment has been a powerhouse in shaping the Mzansi music scene, who can forget what they did with Big Nuz’s “Umlilo” featuring the hitmaker himself? The song earned a nod for SAMA's Song of the Year and birthed the careers of the trio - Mampintsha, R Mashesha, and Danger.

DJ Tira’s Afrotainment record label has created some of the country's biggest stars like Tipcee, Zodwa Wabantu and Dladla Mshunqisi. Success is never without drama and viewers will be privy to all of the docu-series.

The entertainer started the record label and built it to help people who want to realise their dreams in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

He encourages people to watch “Afrotainment: Sgubhu Sase Dubane” to see him telling things as they are “no sugar coating” and promises that’s interesting and will leave one informed.

"Afrotainment:Sgubhu Sase Dubane" airs on Channel O (DStv Channel 320) from Saturday  December 7 at 12.30pm with other airings Thursdays at 9pm, Sundays at 4pm.

IOL Entertainment