The grandson of late Chief Justice Pius Langa and former South African ambassador in China and Russia Bheki Langa, defies family and chooses music over politics. Philani “DJ Mpiloz” Manyoni is one of the few people to choose entertainment over running the country, despite being born in it. Speaking to ZiMoja while visiting home, the Afrocentric house DJ encourages people to allow their children to choose their own careers. "I was born and bred in a family that was too involved in politics. From my grandfather to my uncles, it was all about law and South African politics," he says.
“I decided to pursue my career in deejaying because that is where my passion lies. When I DJ, I feel brand new all the time," says DJ Mpiloz, who is also the Escourt All White Festival founder.
DOING WHAT HE LOVES
Born in Loskop, KwaZulu Natal, based in Washington DC, DJ Mpiloz relocated to a place that has afforded him an opportunity to work with the who’s who of the US which include the likes of two well-known international House Music producers Rob Strem and Greg Kim.
DJ Mpiloz says he missed the festive season celebrations from back home, and spending time with his family is a priority to him.
"As you know, this time of the year, here at home is summer, where-else the US is braving through winterand snoww. I make sure that I take some time and be with my family here in KZN,”he sayss.
“I like spending my summertime with family and friends. I like catching up on new trends in terms of local music.”
On his last visit back home, he fell in love with Amapiano music.
“When I came back during a pandemic, Amapiano had taken over and now they are on another level and people love jamming to them overseas which makes me so proud," he says.
HIS LATEST OFFERINGS
He recently released a single titled Emelika where he features singer and songwriter, Miss Twaggy.
"She is one of the most talented vocalists that I know in South Africa,and I am excited for her. She has worked with many prominent DJs and producersin Mzansi. It was not difficult to approach her for a feature," he adds.
DJ Mpiloz is currently also nominated for the Sado Awards (Southern African Diaspora outstanding Awards) in New York USA for the Best International Act and best International DJ.
