DJ Tira - Biography, Age, Career, Discography and Personal Life

Mthokozisi Khathi, popularly known as DJ Tira, is a South African DJ, record producer, record label founder, Durban kwaito artist, and businessman. He is widely recognized as the pioneer of the Gqom music genre, which has been popular since 2017. DJ Tira is also known for his significant contributions to the music industry by introducing and promoting artists such as Dladla Mshunqisi, DJ C'ndo, Big Nuz, and others.

Early Life

Khathi was born on 24 August 1976 in KwaHlabisa Village, KwaZulu-Natal. In 1979, his family moved to Durban. Khathi attended Mlokothwa High School and later enrolled at the University of Natal (now known as the University of KwaZulu-Natal) in 1995, where he studied human resources. Initially, Khathi did not have an interest in becoming a DJ. It was during his time at university that his passion for DJing grew, especially during the era when vinyl records were popular.

DJ Tira's Career Journey

Mthokozisi Khathi, known as DJ Tira, developed an interest in DJing while studying at the University of Natal. He started playing as a DJ in 1996. Around 2001, he released his first record, "Real Makoya," a compilation album with DJ Khabzela. In 2005, he signed a record deal with Kalawa Jazmee and formed the group Tzozo En Professor. Later, he teamed up with DJ Sox to create Durbans Finest, under Kalawa Jazmee Records, and released a series of compilation albums under the same name.

In 2007, DJ Tira launched his recording studio, Afrotainment, signing DJ Cndo as the first artist on his label. This venture led him to become a music producer. That same year, he signed the kwaito group Big Nuz after they relocated from Johannesburg to Durban. In 2008, DJ Tira featured on two popular tracks, Big Nuz's "Ubala Lolo" and DJ Clock's "Mahamba Yedwa."

DJ Tira released his first solo project, "Ezase Afro Vol:1," in 2008 under his label. The album featured artists like Bricks, Daddy, Big Nuz, and Joocy of Afrosoul, becoming a hit and selling over 20,000 copies.

In March 2019, he released the single "Amachankura" featuring TNS, followed by "Thank You Mr DJ" featuring Joocy in July 2019. His album "Ikhenani," released on September 13, 2019, won Best Kwaito Album at the 26th South African Music Awards.

Celebrating 21 years in the music industry, DJ Tira released his fourth studio album, "21 Years of DJ Tira," on August 24, 2020, which was certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA). In March 2021, he co-hosted season 6 of the SABC 1 talent show competition, "1's and 2's."

On June 25, 2021, his fifth studio album "Rockstar Forever" was released, featuring artists such as the Q Twins, Makhadzi, Western Boyz, Jumbo, Prince Bulo, Biza Wethu, Mampintsha, Joocy, Ntencane, Proffesor, Beast, Worst Behaviour, Dladla Mshunqisi, BlaQRythm, Mtebza, and Khazozo. "Rockstar Forever" ranked number 1 on the iTunes charts in South Africa.

Personal Life

DJ Tira, born Mthokozisi Khathi, is married to Gugu Khathi. Together, they have two sons, Junior and Chase, and one daughter, Gigi. The couple hosted a traditional Zulu ceremony, Umabo, at DJ Tira's home in KwaHlabisa, KwaZulu-Natal, celebrating their cultural heritage.

Their children are following in their father's footsteps by pursuing careers in DJing. Despite his support for their ambitions, DJ Tira acknowledges the harsh realities of the music industry and expresses his concerns for their future in this challenging field.

Discography

Studio Albums

2012 - Ezase Afro Vol:1

2013 - Ezase Afro Vol:2

2019 - Ikhenani

2020 - 21 Years of DJ Tira

2021 - Rockstar Forever

2023 - Malume Way

Compilation Albums

2001 - Real Makoya (with DJ Khabzela)

2004 - Durbans Finest Vol:1 (with Sox and Ncedo M)

2005 - Durbans Finest Vol:2 (with Sox)

Awards and Nominations

Best Compilation Album, 2004

Best Live Act, 2018

Record of the Year, 2019

Best Kwaito/Gqom/Amapiano, 2020

Special Achievement Award, 2020

Best Kwaito/Gqom Song, 2023

Best Music Video, 2023