We enter into a conversation with one of the headliners of the Decentraland Music Festival, exploring how emerging technologies such as Decentraland can contribute to equal opportunity and looking at one of the most exciting genres emerging in electronic music today: Gqom. To an outsider, Gqom might seem like the next logical step after experiencing the powerful rise of Amapiano. Both genres are born from the cultural remnants of an apartheid-torn South Africa, offering a hybrid strain of deep house infused with Kwaito, lounge, jazz, and soul influences. Gqom stands as a testament to the volatile, unpredictable nature of post-apartheid South Africa—a country often referred to as the "rainbow nation." Remarkably, Gqom found an international foothold before making waves in its homeland, following a pattern set by genres like House from Chicago, Techno from Detroit, Grime & Dub from London, and closer to the African continent, the Kampala's electronic sounds.
DJ Lag, regarded as a pioneer for Gqom’s rise in South Africa, has remained committed to the genre's growth from its humble beginnings in Durban. Unlike many of his peers who shifted toward faster-trending genres, DJ Lag stayed true to Gqom, Amapiano’s predecessor.
“I want to get the Gqom sound to international standards, encourage more collaborations, and make sure it thrives on bigger stages globally,”
he explains, outlining his dedication to refining his sound and expanding Gqom’s reach.
Reflecting the calm, grounded charisma he exuded when we first met at Berghain following his set at the REEF collective night, DJ Lag embodies what some may call a humble powerhouse. As I and others praised his intense, poetic, broken-beat log drums and synthesizers resonating through the main floor, he quietly blended into the evening, never seeking applause for the disruption he just caused.
DJ Lag’s breakout came during the Boyznbucks era—a time when South African artists were carving out distinct identities and colours, independent from Western influences. It was a period defined by genre-bending and fearless self-expression. Okmalumkoolkat, a pioneering artist from that era, was among the few pushing Gqom beyond commercial appeal. DJ Lag remembers that time fondly.
“It was amazing being with them while they were still Boyznbucks. They shaped culture and the streets through music, fashion, and lingo. That was when they were at their peak. We performed together at my first Boiler Room in Johannesburg, and for most people there, it was the first time they heard Gqom.”
From these beginnings, DJ Lag forged his own path, taking Gqom from the streets of Durban to the world, and creating more opportunities for South African artists domestically as Gqom’s reputation grew. His journey is still unfolding, and his sound continues to evolve. As a child, DJ Lag was inspired by Kwaito child star and family friend Msawawa, who released his first album at the age of seven. Weekends at home spent hearing his grandmother's chatter in harmony with Msawawa’s music, fueled his ambition from a young age. Given his early exposure to music and his upbringing in the low-income township of Clermont, DJ Lag's achievements—rising above crime, carjacking, and loss that were all too common themes in his community—are no surprise as he was driven to tell a different tale of where he comes from.
“Electronic music has grown significantly across parts of Africa, especially in South Africa. New variations like the 3 Step—a fusion of Gqom and electronic house elements—have emerged. There’s a notable increase in electronic music events, festivals, communities, and DJs”.
DJ Lag observed his tone hopeful as he reflected on the growth of electronic music and the ways emerging technologies are creating new possibilities. These technologies, he adds, “help us connect and build platforms that link us to the world,” opening international stages to artists from all backgrounds. Which breeds curiosity on what DJ Lag’s upcoming performance in the immersive world of Decentraland may provide and stand for international acts in the future.
With his distinct sound, unwavering vision, and commitment to Gqom, DJ Lag continues to shape the electronic music landscape, inviting the world to experience the energy and spirit of Durban’s dance floors.
Watch DJ Lag's set at Decentraland Music Festival on DAY 3 Friday November 22nd at 22:00 UTC (14:00PST)
