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Afro Exotiq: A Stellar Year Culminates in a Thrilling Lagos Debut
Global Takeover: From South Africa to the World
With his unique sound and unstoppable work ethic, Afro Exotiq has electrified the Afro house scene in 2024. From releasing his critically-acclaimed album Doppler Effect to becoming a resident DJ on Metro FM, his star continues to rise. The culmination of his phenomenal year? A show-stopping debut performance in Lagos, Nigeria, that left audiences breathless.
The year 2024 has been nothing short of transformative for Afro Exotiq, the South African DJ and music producer whose career continues to soar to unimaginable heights. Hailing from the village of Mulima/Tshitale in Limpopo, Afro Exotiq, born Makhubele Bongani, has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Afro house and electronic dance music. His recent performance at the Element House New Year’s Eve event in Lagos, Nigeria, hosted by Spektrum Entertainment, marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career: his first international show.
Afro Exotiq’s path to Lagos began earlier in 2024 when Nigerian Afro house and Afro tech DJ and producer Blak Dave visited South Africa. During his time in Johannesburg, Blak Dave invited Afro Exotiq to a collaborative studio session at a creative hub in Bryanston. This gathering was a melting pot of talent, featuring award-winning SABC radio technical producer Cocktale DJ, Afro house sensation K-Zaka, Nigerian entrepreneur and creative Partyboy Dafe, and renowned Nigerian fashion designer and Xela Cartel CEO Alejandro. The session was documented by Drums Radio’s Hope Thobs, capturing the electric energy and synergy that fueled the collaboration.
The pivotal moment came when Afro Exotiq played tracks from his recently released fourth studio album, Doppler Effect. The room was immediately captivated by the album’s bold fusion of African percussions and EDM influences. Blak Dave, recognizing the sheer artistry of Afro Exotiq’s work, had a talk with Spektrum to facilitate an invitation to Afro-Exotiq to perform in Nigeria at Spektrum’s highly anticipated Element House New Year’s Eve event.
Speaking to Drums Radio about the experience, Afro Exotiq shared his gratitude for the incredible talents he encountered in the studio and reflected on what it meant for his artistic journey. “The Nigeria trip was great! The experience was great — experiencing new people, music, energy! Dope, dope!” he exclaimed.
This international debut is the culmination of a phenomenal year for Afro Exotiq. In 2024, he became a resident DJ on South Africa’s leading commercial radio station, Metro FM, joining Ryan the DJ on the Urban Beat show. His presence on the airwaves has further cemented his reputation as a pioneer in Afro house music. Additionally, the release of Doppler Effect, his fourth studio album, showcased his ability to blend energetic beats with African rhythms, resonating with audiences both locally and globally.
Afro Exotiq’s rise is a testament to his unique sound and relentless work ethic. Known for his mantra, “We Don’t Play the Same Afro,” he has consistently delivered music that stands out. From his groundbreaking singles supported by SABC and international radio stations to collaborations with top-tier artists, Afro Exotiq’s career trajectory is defined by innovation and passion. His creativity shone in projects like Introspection, which featured electronic influences and gained traction on platforms like Tomorrowland Radio and Apple Music.
The establishment of his record label, House Planet, has further solidified his status as a visionary in the industry. Releases such as the EP featuring a leading single debuted at Tomorrowland Festival in 2023 have continued to push boundaries and earn global recognition.
Afro Exotiq’s journey from Limpopo to Lagos reflects a deeply rooted connection to his African heritage while embracing global sounds. His performance in Lagos is not just a personal milestone but also a celebration of the cross-cultural exchange that Afro house and Afro tech music represent. With 2024 setting such a high bar, the world eagerly awaits what Afro Exotiq has in store for 2025 and beyond. One thing is certain: the drums will keep beating, and Afro Exotiq will continue to lead the charge.
