Shayx isn’t just spinning tracks—he’s bringing back the soul of house music, one infectious beat at a time. With his Cream Sessions and Old School House Classics mixes, this rising star in South Africa’s house music scene delivers a nostalgic yet electrifying vibe that gets crowds moving. His journey from a young music lover to a celebrated DJ, featured at events like SAMA28, is a story of grit, passion, and an unshakable commitment to authenticity.
In an exclusive interview with TJ Global Media, Shayx shares the roots of his sound, the challenges he’s overcome, and his vision to restore the joy of house parties. Here’s how Shayx is reshaping South Africa’s music culture in 2025—and what aspiring DJs can learn from his relentless drive.
The Spark That Started It All
Shayx’s love for music ignited at age 11, inspired by the eclectic tastes of his uncles and older friends. “I’ve always loved music,” he says, recalling how their influence steered him toward old-school house classics like those from Fistaz Mixwell and Robin S. That early exposure shaped his path, leading him to embrace DJing as more than a hobby—a way to connect with others through rhythm and soul. While he doesn’t pinpoint one defining moment, it’s clear that his childhood passion laid the foundation for a career built on pure love for the craft.
Unlike many DJs chasing trends, Shayx stays true to the deep, soulful sounds of old-school house. His mixes, like Old School House Classics #04 on YouTube, blend high-energy grooves with chilled vibes, creating an experience that feels personal. “I don’t like to play music I don’t enjoy,” he explains, emphasizing that his sets reflect what he’s listening to in the moment. This authenticity resonates with fans, making every performance a reflection of Shayx himself.
Crafting Sets That Move Souls
Shayx’s process for building a set is simple but powerful: play what moves him. “I want people to experience Shayx through my mixes,” he says, curating tracks that balance nostalgia with crowd-pleasing energy. His Cream Sessions mix stands out as a career-defining moment. “It opened many doors for me,” he reflects, crediting his friend Milo for giving him the chance to perform live on a platform that introduced Shayx to a wider audience. That set wasn’t just a mix—it was a statement, showcasing his ability to blend deep house with the kind of energy that lights up a dancefloor.
Collaborations have also played a big role in his growth. Working with photographers like SoWhat Photography and NJ Photography has added a visual flair to his live sets, while partnerships with other creatives have deepened his craft. “Collaboration is always a good thing,” he says, particularly when it comes to uplifting others in coloured communities. “I want everyone to grow, especially my coloured brothers and sisters.” These connections have taught him to approach his work with openness, making his performances not just about music, but about building community.
Overcoming the Grind
Breaking into South Africa’s competitive house scene wasn’t easy. “The beginning was probably the biggest obstacle,” Shayx admits, a hurdle every artist faces. What set him apart was his refusal to back down. “I never took NO for an answer,” he says, recalling how he showed up for every gig, paid or not, just to be seen. That hustle paid off, turning him into a recognized name in venues across South Africa and at events like SAMA28. “Remaining resilient will always be a positive in any career,” he adds, a lesson that defines his approach to both performing and building his brand.
Even as house music evolves, Shayx stays grounded in his old-school roots. “You’ll never hear me playing R&B or hip-hop,” he says, drawing inspiration from selectors like Oscar Mbo, Vinny Da Vinci, and Christos, whose authentic brands resonate with him. By staying true to his sound, he avoids the pressure to chase trends, letting his passion for deep house guide his path.
A Lifestyle That Fuels Creativity
Beyond the decks, Shayx’s vibrant personality shines through. His TikTok posts reveal a love for fashion, from the “baggy style” of “dik broek en wat wat” to his roots in Carvela shoes and DH skippers. “I’m a very outgoing person who enjoys taking risks,” he says, and that bold energy spills into his sets. Whether he’s experimenting with fashion or connecting with fans online, these passions recharge his creativity, keeping his performances fresh and engaging.
DJing as a Calling
For Shayx, DJing is more than a job—it’s a mission to create moments of peace and connection. “I like to call it a place where troubles are forgotten,” he says of the “groove” his sets inspire. From local gigs to viral mixes on YouTube and TikTok, where thousands vibe with his sound, Shayx knows his music touches lives. “My aim is to make sure everyone has a good time,” he says, driven by the belief that music can help people escape their struggles, even if just for a night. His sets, described as warming up cold winters, leave audiences uplifted, with memories that linger long after the last track fades.
Bringing Back the House Party Vibe
Shayx’s vision is bold: revive the spirit of house parties where music, not status, was the focus. “I want to bring back the good old days,” he says, frustrated by a culture where “everyone just goes out for the sake of looking good and who orders the most expensive bottles.” Through his music, he’s reminding fans that “music is the answer” and a force that unites. His growing presence on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, coupled with appearances at events like SAMA28, shows he’s already making waves.
What’s next for Shayx? “I, myself, don’t even know,” he laughs, but promises fans will always hear something new. Whether it’s a fresh mix series, a live event, or a collaboration, he’s constantly working to keep the vibe alive. “I just want to be remembered as the guy who plays dope house music,” he says, a legacy rooted in authenticity and joy.
A Legacy of Unity and Groove
Shayx isn’t just a DJ, he’s a torchbearer for South Africa’s house music culture. By staying true to his old-school roots, he’s carving a space where fans can reconnect with the pure, unifying power of music. His sets don’t just move bodies, they move hearts, reminding us that the dancefloor is a place to forget troubles and find joy. As he continues to rise, Shayx is proving that with resilience, passion, and a killer playlist, you can not only chase your dreams but inspire others to do the same.
