DJ Doowap On Bass, 'Kwaaidub', Her Journey and More
DJ Doowap, real name Khetsiwe Morgan is a half-Swati, half-British radio and live mix DJ focusing on Trap, Hip Hop, Drum & Bass, Kwaidub and Future R&B genres.
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Who is DJ Doowap?
DJ Doowap is a 24 year old Sound Engineer graduate who dabbles in bass both on radio (YFM Hot99 Dubstep) and live mixing (Trap, Hip Hop, Drum & Bass, Kwaidub and Future R&B). I also dig the fashion world especially 90's throwback and all its colourful influence.
How did the name Doowap come about?
When I was young my friends at school use to call me shawty doowap. Then when I was thinking of a name to use as an alias my mom suggested Doowap.
Did you always want to become a DJ?
Nah! I've always wanted to be a Sound Engineer for movies. Djying came along my path whilst I was studying. I hopped on and have loved the ride so far.
What do you enjoy most about being South African?
I love how mixed, happy and open we are as a nation. Being a South African has definitely contributed to my creativity.
Do you have any style icons? Who are they and why?
I will always say Rihanna; she is around my age, on my steez, fearless and fierce. Other than her it's the throwback to Aaliyah, TLC and Salt n Pepa! Shoop!
What inspires your selection of music for your DJ sets?
All my music firstly has to be bass driven, I'm a bass addict. My sets at the moment are inspired by the old school 1995 vibe. That future sound of R&B as well as old school Kwaito with an electronic twist "Kwaidub".
When you have some time off, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy doing what I am doing. Right now everyday feels like time off. I play the music I love and get to share it with the bruvz. I'm just on a hype the whole time... I never know what tomorrow is going to bring me but right now its all fun and games with shoots, interviews, music producing, radio Djying, club Djying, recording with Lex.. the epicness just doesn't stop!
What do you think everybody should be listening to right now?
Right now local is lekker. We got my bruv Okmalumkoolkat who is on some next level waves: then Lex LaFoy the baddest female MC I've seen for a while. Muzi, he's such a badass, young and talented producer killing the bass scene. Overseas its chilled vibes like Kaytranada, Sango, Mr Carmack, Jhene Aiko, Majid Jordan, Image Ctrl... Just check out Soundcloud, the juices are flowing on that site.
Your top 5 local musicians?
Lex LaFoy, Moonchild, Ricky Rik, Sibot and Muzi.
7 Fast Facts
I used to be a South African Springboard Diving Champion for a few years.
I lived in Canada (Montreal) and UK (London).
I’m asthmatic.
I have a beautiful younger sister who lives in Holland.
I hate scary movies.
I’m a Libra.
I speak french fluently.
Can’t think of anymore!!!
Photography: Lionwolf
Creative Direction, Styling, Interview: Phendu Kuta
Stockists: Rich Mnisi, Rozanne & Pushkin, Maaji Swimwear, Piece