When it comes to setting Cape Town’s dance floors ablaze, Wesman Emshinin doesn’t just play the beat, he is the beat. With a signature sound rooted in love, healing, and the raw pulse of Gqom, this DJ and cultural curator has been steadily carving his own lane, from viral mixes to vibe-filled residencies.
As the creative force behind the Denim & White Spring Edition and the mastermind behind the acclaimed Ghost Mode series, Wesman is proof that staying true to your roots can still shake the room. In this exclusive Q&A, he opens up about the music that moves him, his off-stage rituals, style philosophy, and why Mondays in Cape Town will never be the same again.
GLAMOUR: You’ve got Cape Town moving to beats. What’s the secret sauce behind your sound?
Wesman Emshinin: The secret sauce behind the sound is love and passion. I grew up loving music from a young age. Gqom and House have always been a significant healer in my past.
GLAMOUR: What’s one track that never fails to set the dance floor on fire when you’re behind the decks?
Wesman Emshinin: It has to be Golden Memories by Bajike Entertainment. It’s a surefire track that elevates the crowd into a mood of unimaginable Gqom vibes.
GLAMOUR: You’ve worked with Gqom heavyweights like Ujeje and uBizza Wethu. Who’s still on your dream collaboration list?
Wesman Emshinin: In an effort to keep the sound real and true, I’d say DJ Tira and Babes Wodumo.
GLAMOUR: Tell us a bit about Ghost Mode 3. Is it more about the vibe, the groove, or the message?
Wesman Emshinin: Ghost Mode 3 is a carefully curated mix that tells the story of Gqom music and how far it has come. It’s part of a five-volume series that’s gaining traction on African music platforms and really representing the culture.
GLAMOUR: When you’re not spinning, how do you like to unwind?
Wesman Emshinin: I usually hang out in spaces where there’s no sound. Being in the music scene most of my life, silence helps. I love trying out new dishes and exploring different cultures through food.
GLAMOUR: Describe your style in 3 words. What’s your go-to look on stage versus when you’re just chilling?
Wesman Emshinin: Simple, clean, fashionable. I keep it casual but bold—always attractive, even when I’m dressed down.
GLAMOUR: You’re part of the Denim & White Spring Edition event. How do you make a simple outfit like denim and white stand out?
Wesman Emshinin: I’m actually the concept creator behind the event—it’s been going since 2021. The idea is that simplicity in denim wear can still shine. No matter the brand name, denim and white always pop.
GLAMOUR: What’s one fashion or grooming tip you swear by before a gig or shoot?
Wesman Emshinin: Wear what’s trending—or keep it simple to stay grounded. Clean and confident is always a good look.
GLAMOUR: What’s your ideal way to spend a Sunday in Cape Town when you’re off the clock?
Wesman Emshinin: Definitely hitting up Rands Cape Town for Sunday Edition or Sunset Sundays at Rooftop on Bree Street.
GLAMOUR: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Wesman Emshinin: I’m always learning more about the music industry, whether it’s graphic design, event organizing, or even hosting as an MC.
GLAMOUR: If someone wanted to win your attention, what kind of vibe or energy would they need to bring?
Wesman Emshinin: The energy to read a crowd. Give people a taste of the unknown; blending heartwarming mixes into a moment that’s unforgettable.
GLAMOUR: You’re known for your confident stage presence. Where does that self-assurance come from?
Wesman Emshinin: It comes from staying true to the Gqom sound. When the crowd sings your songs or connects through your set, that’s the real interaction. That’s the confidence.
GLAMOUR: You just kicked off a Monday residency at DJs Inn. What makes that night special for you?
Wesman Emshinin: Mondays used to be recovery days, but now we’ve made them part of the weekend calendar. It’s like an unexpected Saturday, the vibe is different, and that makes it exciting.
GLAMOUR: You’ve built a strong online following. What’s the most heartwarming or funniest DM a fan has ever sent you?
Wesman Emshinin: Hahaha, that’s a funny one. I’d say, “Can you play live in my bedroom?”
GLAMOUR: What’s next for DJ Wesman Emshinin? New sounds, new stages, maybe even a new look?
Wesman Emshinin: Right now I’m focused on completing my Ghost Mode series, it ends at Volume 5. After that, I’m dropping my debut album at the end of November. It’s called I’m Not a Producer Album, and it’s going to show another side of my sound.
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