Angolan born DJ Dino Bravo calls South Africa his home and adds much vibrance and skill to the profession that has captured his heart and soul – music.
Africa has been home to Bravo for quite some time. After being raised in Cuba, he moved to South Africa in the early 90s and has adapted perfectly to the lifestyle and culture that the country is known for.
His music inspiration hails from the strong Samba, Latino and African rhythm he is accustomed to and the result of this unique blend is a host of infectious combinations of musical styles. Music has forever been ingrained in this artist’s soul and his entry into the music world goes back to the days of his youth where he enjoyed break-dancing and rapping.
Do you have stage name?
Yeap. DJ Dino Bravo aka Yo Mama's favourite DJ
What gave you that initial push?
The Djing came first but production is slowly taking over. I love music creation.
Who's throwing the best parties at the moment?
Wow! That's a tough one since I've been in Europe for a couple of months. But Smirnoff always throws good parties.
Which other countries have you played in?
I've played in lots of countries. But the most memorable ones were Angola, Botswana, Cuba, Dubai, Hong Kong, Kenya, Sweden, Switzerland, Zimbabwe, Germany, Spain, Portugal and USA.
What was the first event you ever played at?
The first big event I played at was a Camel Experience. Before that I played mostly in clubs and pubs.
What's the best event you've played at?
Wow! I've played for so many good events. Themost memorable one has to be Davos in Switzerland. Imagine you play musisc for 500 of the most influential people in the world. It felt like heaven. They were a bunch of party animals. Not many DJs can say that they played for the World Economic Forum After Party in Davos. Bill Clinton came up to me and told me he liked my music!
What was your first record you bought?
Brenda Fassie - Weekend Special
Out of all the tunes you have, which one never fails to get people dancing?
That's a tough one. There are so many but whenever I play Special Star by Mango Groove people just lose their minds. I guess old school is cool.
What's your favourite tune of all time?
Pm Dawn - I'll Die Without You. I don't know why but I really love that song. I even cry when I'm listening to it. (Don't tell anybody).
When all the partying is over how do you like to chill out?
Hahaha. That is easy. I sleep as much as I can.
How big is your vinyl collection? What do you think of CDJ's?
My collection is huge. I've been collecting since the early 90s
Funniest thing that ever happened at an event?
Wow, there is so much of that happens to me. But this girl came to me in a club and right after I was about to walk out she came running and gave me her underwear and her house keys with an address! That was super funny. Of course I gave it all back. Hahaha.
Other DJs you rate?
In my opinion, Sout Africa has the best DJs in the world. We are just different like that. but I got mad love for Black Coffee, Fresh, Euphonik, Ryan the DJ, Diamond Dealer, Roger Goode, DJ Christos, DJ Franky, Twins On Decks, Fistaz Mixwell, Fix, Vinni Davincy, DJ Tabz, DJ Waxxy, Ricardo Da Costa, Mark Stent, Lady Lea, DJ Meister, DJ Zinhle, C-live, Naked DJ, Naves. I could go on till the end of this page really.
What do you do outside of the dance music scene?
I've just opened a DJ school called Dino Bravo DJ Academny for those that want to learn from the best. Contact [email protected]
What advice would you give to up and coming DJs
Don't take shortcuts, do the right thing and treat everyone like they are part of your family. Do that and you will go far.
How can fans connect with you on social media?
www.twitter.com/DJDINOBRAVO
Or just search for DJ Dino Bravo on your favourite social network.
Where will you be playing next?
Today I am off to one of my favourite clubs in South Africa. The Godfather Supreme in Port Elizabeth. For more dates you can follow me or visit www.dinobravo.dj