Mmegi: Can you tell us who is DJ Smallz?
DJ Smallz : My name is Barona Ngwako. I come from a family of seven. I hail from Maunatlala but I grew up in Gaborone. I am often told that I have the personality and DJing experience to turn any party into an unforgettable grand affair. I love music and this has been the main driving force behind my success. I started off as a 'bedroom DJ' and patiently penetrated the hearts of house lovers with my clean and precise mixes.
Mmegi: How did you coin the name 'Smallz?'
Dj Smallz: It was in 2007 when I attained my stage name after slamming a very tight set during the inter-varsity event which was held at the UB main campus. It was the most overwhelming experience I've ever had. This was a turning point for me because at the time, I did not have any recognisable stage name.
Fans started blaring out loud the name "Smallz!" (Probably because though I was the youngest and shortest performer on stage at the time, I rocked an outstandingly superb set), I then thought, "Let me just go with the flow and accept my new stage name." I'd say the name "Smallz" was an endowment from God.
Mmegi: How would you describe your personality?
Dj Smallz: I am a sociable man who enjoys hanging around people and making new friends. I am also a patient and flexible person.
Mmegi: Who or what inspires you?
Dj Smallz: I am inspired by myself. I believe in myself and am my own role model.
Mmegi: What sets you apart from other DJ's?
Dj Smallz: Versatility is amongst my most outstanding qualities as I have the capacity to turn the party mellow with some soulful sound then driving the tempo up to chaotic feel. I take time to prepare for every gig I am booked for and ensure that I deliver the best.
Mmegi: How do you market yourself?
Dj Smallz : I use Facebook as the main medium to expose my brand as social networks and media play a pivotal role in promoting local urban entertainers. I also use the opportunity I have playing on Yarona fm, to market myself. Other than that I often issue out copies of my mixed CDs attached with a brief profile pamphlet to fans, every chance I get.
Mmegi: What challenges do you face as a DJ and life in general?
Dj Smallz: Our entertainment industry is slowly being drowned by the new government laws, especially the Liquor act, where the number of hours of gig operations have been reduced. This poses a serious challenge to urban entertainers because promoters are now reluctant to organise more gigs. As a result, good paying gigs are few and wide apart.
Mmegi: What else do you do apart from being a DJ?
Dj Smallz: I am a student at the University of Botswana. I am pursuing an undergraduate degree in a double major in economics and accounting. I also own and run two companies; an events management and entertainment company as well as a hire-catering company. Both are doing quite well.
Mmegi: Did you study any course related to deejaying?
Dj Smallz: No, I did not study any course related to deejaying. I was just born for this (laughs)
Mmegi: Give us some of the big names you have shared a stage with so far.
Dj Smallz: Harrison Crump from America, Rocco from France, Charles Webster, Ralph Gum from Germany and Black Coffee from SA.
Mmegi: Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Dj Smallz: Owning an estate large enough to cater for at least two events/entertainment arenas.
Mmegi: How do you handle the fame that comes with being a DJ?
Dj Smallz: It's very difficult to handle fame. Fans are like a woman. You don't give them maximum attention and love, they all go! So this has always been a challenge to me because it basically calls for more emphasis on long period interactions with fans (which can be time consuming at times)
Mmegi: Is being a DJ a career path you would advise young people to pursue?
Dj Smallz: Definitely yes if they have passion and love for it!
Mmegi: What is your opinion on cyber social networks?
Dj Smallz: Cyber social networks are good for interacting with fans, for me as a DJ. They create a platform for business opportunities. I don't have any problem with them at all.
Mmegi: Are you in a relationship?
Dj Smallz: No comment.
Mmegi: What motivates you?
Dj Smallz: Prayer and waking up to a new day.
Mmegi: What should we expect from you in 2013?
Dj Smallz: It's a surprise to be revealed on the first day of the year 2013.
Mmegi: Any advice for aspiring artists out there who want to emulate you?
Dj Smallz: Whenever you get a stage performance opportunity, just turn off your mind and turn on your heart. Do your best and you will gain more followers. Avoid being fake and just be you. Prosperity is for all.
PROFILE
Date Of Birth: 29 April
Place Of Birth: Palapye
Home Village: Maunatlala
Favorite Dish: Pasta and mutton stew
Age: 20 something
