
Giyanis’ DJ Akira has won over fans with his electrifying performances and ability to keep up with the latest music trends. He’s known for playing everything from Amapiano to Maskandi, the versatile DJ is a favorite among clubgoers, and his journey to success is as inspiring as his sets are unforgettable.
Akira’s love for DJing began in the unlikeliest of times: the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. With nowhere to go and plenty of time on his hands, he found himself glued to YouTube, studying industry icons like DJ Maphorisa and Shimza. “I fell in love with DJing right away,” he says. By the end of the year, he had acquired a Pioneer 350 CDJ set and spent countless hours practicing in his room.
In 2022, his persistence paid off when his mixtape was featured on GCR FM’s Breakfast Show, and by 2023, Choice FM was playing his mixes every Friday. “That’s when people started to recognize me,” he recalls, adding that his ability to play any genre depending on the mood of the event has set him apart.
DJ Akira’s playlists are powered by platforms like TikTok, which he credits as his main source for discovering trending music. “I spend so much time watching TikTok music challenges to stay relevant,” he explains. It’s this dedication that keeps him on top of his game, delighting fans who come to Softlife Lounge expecting nothing less than the best.
For Akira, his fans mean everything. “Without them, there’s no DJ Akira and no Softlife,” he says. He takes their support seriously, even going so far as to extend a set when fans demanded he play their favorite song, “Chuza,” on Christmas Eve. “That moment made me realize how much people love me and the culture I represent.”
Akira is more than just a DJ—he’s also a producer. Currently, he’s working on an Amapiano EP and planning a special birthday celebration in March to thank his fans for their unwavering support. Looking ahead, he dreams of performing internationally and showcasing his talents to the world.
For those hoping to follow in his footsteps, Akira’s advice is simple: “Stay humble, work hard, and be patient. Don’t get into DJing for fame or money; do it because you love music. Everything else will follow.”
With his unstoppable drive, unwavering dedication to his craft, and love for his fans, it’s clear DJ Akira is just getting started.