MBABANE – The XChange Lounge and Shisanyama reached full capacity last Friday, as South African music producer and Afrotainment Founder, DJ Tira, headlined the ‘A Night With DJ Tira’ event.
The performance, which drew a dense crowd to the venue, served as a showcase of the Gqom and Kwaito sounds that have defined his career. The artist, born Mthokozisi Khathi and often referred to by his moniker ‘Makoya Bearings’, delivered a high-energy set that featured several of his most recognised tracks. The event also celebrated Waxola’s birthday the owner of the XChange Lounge, DJ Tira whilst on stage popped a bottle of champagne and wished well for Waxola.
The setlist included the 2018 hit ‘No Rush’ and the upbeat anthem ‘Malume’. He also performed more recent material from his discography, including ‘Ozosijoina’ and selections from his latest EP, ‘Khuphuka’.
Known for a performance style that extends beyond the DJ booth, Tira incorporated several signature physical stunts and interactive elements into his set. He frequently stepped away from the decks to engage directly with the front-row fans, leading synchronised dance movements.
Tira performed the ‘vosho’, a squat-style dance move, multiple times during his set. This is a staple of his live routine that prompted immediate imitation from the audience.
The event at the Xchange Lounge ran until the following morning, with the dance floor remaining occupied throughout the early hours.
DJ Tira was supported by a star-studded line-up of local DJs including Teesto, Sbu De Drum DJ, Fantacy, Motoyemali and Bandora, among others who maintained the atmosphere throughout the show.
On the morning of the event, organisers announced that presale tickets were sold out and only gate tickets remained available, indicating that DJ Tira’s fans in Eswatini were eager to see him perform.
