ZAlebs chatted to one of SA’s favourite DJs, Deon Govender about his career, his best gig and what tune gets people dancing every time. Deon will be the very first DJ to mix your tunes on the ZAlebs Playlist. 

Deon started off at Durban Youth Radio, then moved to Red Cap Radio (Mr Price live) and during that time joined East Coast Radio. He re-invented night radio with cool features on radio, including the mini mixes which you can listen to on his Soundcloud profile. Deon was on 94.7 Highveld Stereo for the better part of 2011 and returned to Durban and  East Coast Radio in November 2011.
Deon has played in clubs like Bellagio, Ftv, Cafe Vacca Matta, Plush, Cube, Manhattan and many other top class venues.

Let's chat to Deon to see where he gets his mojo from: 

Do you have stage name or is it just Deon?

I don't believe in changing your name, who you are should be you, so it's just Deon.

What gave you that initial push? Did the Djing, Production, Promoting come 1st?

While at the age of 15, I used to go for tuitions at Und, there was a radio station there, so in my spare time I stayed there and learnt so much, then came my attempt of making my own station at home with my tape deck and answering machine even though it seemed weird, it gave the thrill.

Who's throwing the best parties at the moment?

Tough one that, events are huge as the nightlife of parties depends where it's at.

Which other countries have you played in?

None yet but there have been talks to go.

What was the first event you ever played at?

My bedroom, with me, my neighbours were invited but doggies were the biggest fans, haha

What's the best event you've played at?

There has been so many, for me there is 2, Rock Da beach 2011 with over 10 000 at Durban New Beach & Colourfest which was in December 2012 at the Wavehouse.

What was your first record you bought?

Shaggy - Boombastic

Out of all the tunes you have, which one 'never fails’ to get people dancing?

Be faithful - Fatman scoop - who is also a good friend as well,

What's your favourite tune of all time?

Tough one, classic for me : I like to move it -Real 2 Reel

When you play is it a pre-planned set or do you wing it?

Never pre plan, that's not cool, you play to the people you see which can only be predicted at that moment.

When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?

My Playstation or silence while taking a long drive.

How big is your vinyl collection? What do you think of CDJ's?

Well we are in the digital age, so vinyl is cool to use if you have the turntables, but most clubs don't have them, just CD players, I recently became the ambassador of Numark, the first Dj in South Africa to be given that title after winning the title "Durbans best Dj 2013"

Funniest thing that ever happened at an event?

A fan hugged me then fainted.

What do you do outside of the dance music scene?

Review cars, mc events and my radio show.

What advice would you give to up and coming DJs/Promoters?

Start small, believe in your brand, and the sky is the limit.

Where will you be playing next?

Junior Colourfest this weekend 13 July, Richards bay end of month, and Durban Spring break 31 August.  

Start submitting your best tracks for our Zalebs Playlist next week and DJ Deon Govender will mix them into an amazing setlist for you to enjoy next week Friday! 

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter and to find us on Facebook!