Dee Nkomo is a Hip Hop, R&B, Kwaito and Afrobeat DJ and hosts “The Capricorn Drive,” airing from 3-6pm weekdays on Capricorn FM.
Radio personality Dee Nkomo sparked a hot debate on social media in response to a viral post by Hip Hop rapper Nadia Nakai.
Nkomo hosts a flagship show on Limpopo’s only commercial radio station, with a strong reach in the Mopani district. Nakai’s post lambasts local DJs, who she claims seem to be carried away by the current wave of recycling old music and rarely play new tracks.
The Polokwane based presenter took to social media, countering Nakai’s claims, stating that blending classics with newer tunes keeps the crowd energized. Nkomo says he believes old hits strike a chord with partygoers. Social media user Tebogo Matlawa responded to Nkomo’s post, stressing that DJs play a crucial role in showcasing new tracks and uncovering fresh talent. “Djs have always made songs popular, that’s why you guys are so important to the culture. You can’t make a whack song good but it’s your duty to introduce them to new good music”, added Matlawa.
Nkomo however, argues that he’s more inclined to play new songs when they’ve already gained popularity on platforms like radio and TikTok, a working formula.
Another user, Mogale Maphutha, begged to differ. According to Maphutha, DJs need to be pioneers — they should break new ground by playing more contemporary tunes and shaping musical tastes. “DJ’s are generally a fearful bunch. Well at least most. They love to join an existing wave and get timid when there is no immediate reaction to a set they are playing; especially if they are either introducing new music or are being completely different.”
Nkomo emphasised that he has no issues playing new tracks, but they need to gain more widespread popularity first. Another user, Taetjo Mathabatha weighed in on the conversation, highlighting the fusion of oldies and new tracks, an orgasmic flavour and blend he says he discovered great new songs at parties. “Tebogo Matlawa and Tumelo Dee Nkomo, you both make good points folks. I suppose everything needs a balance… New songs need to be played at the groove…when played, the crowd will signal,” said Mathabatha.