Beats beyond barriers: the DJs who are changing the game for disabled artists
In a world where music is not just an art form, but a deep-seated component of cultural identity and social interaction, stories of resilience often prevail.
Among those tales, artists with disabilities are emerging as pioneers, proving that passion knows no limitations. These talented DJs are not merely entertainers; they are trailblazers who challenge perceptions and inspire others to break free from the shackles of expectation.
As a DJ myself, I’ve been profoundly moved by the stories of these remarkable individuals. Growing up with a father who has been in a wheelchair since I was a toddler, I know first-hand how determination and ambition can transcend any physical limitation.
My dad, now 60, navigated life’s challenges with grace and instilled in me the values of resilience and independence. It is a remarkable journey, and today, I carry forward his legacy in my music career.
His unwavering support, even on days when I struggled, provided me with the strength to pursue my dreams. His resilience is echoed in the journeys of the DJs I write about here, who too have overcome adversity to make their mark in the music industry.
Take Nkosinathi Maphumulo, for instance, known to the world as DJ Black Coffee. He has become a household name and a beacon of hope for many aspiring artists.
After a car accident at 14 left him with a permanent injury to his arm, Coffee could have easily settled into despair. Instead, he found solace and purpose in music, utilising his natural talent and determination to rise to international fame.
His story shines a light on the idea that disabilities can serve as gateways to strength rather than hindrances to success.
Throughout his illustrious career, Coffee has remained committed to advocacy, using his platform to encourage others to embrace their uniqueness. His goal? To remind individuals with disabilities that challenges can indeed become stepping stones to greatness.
It is this ethos that resonates deeply with many, including his friend DJ Kabila, whose own inspiring story parallels that of the Grammy-winning DJ.
DJ Kabila, whose real name is Siyanda Makhanya, began his career in 1999 - the very same year he had a life-altering accident that left him wheelchair-bound.
After vowing to pursue music post-hospital discharge, Kabila threw himself into cultivating his skills, demonstrating that determination can redefine destiny.
Today, he reflects on his journey with gratitude and ambition, shedding light on the duality of joy and pain that comes with being a disabled DJ.
“People often want to remind you of your disability rather than acknowledge your talent,” Kabila said in an interview with Independent Media Lifestyle.
“Accessibility in venues remains a significant hurdle, underscoring the critical need for systemic changes within the music industry”, he added.
“Being in a wheelchair gave me a purpose,” Kabila explained, noting how adversity has shaped his desire to inspire those who feel defeated by their circumstances.
Now, also an international DJ, he said playing around the world has given him a great source of joy.
“It gives me a great source of joy being where I am today as much as it’s not easy with the travelling sometimes. I’m also still building my brand to a level where I can command all the resources I need and be able to travel with my road manager.
“As you know everything revolves around a certain level of star power to be accommodated to get a team on the road as flights, accommodation, and visas are costly. For now, I just told myself that I have to be Independent so I can live my life”, he said.
When asked how people and organisations in the music industry can better support disabled artists, the “Suka” hitmaker said: “As much as it costs money to get extra staging and make places accessible it’s just a noble way of accommodating any disabled person.”
This year Kabila will be dropping his highly-anticipated EP and will also be hosting his annual event experience; Music Will Save The Day, at The Villa in Durban on April 26.
“I will also be doing a lot of projects for a non-profit organisation called Beyond Disability to highlight some challenges we as people with disabilities have”, he noted.
Among the new generation of artists inspired by these pioneers is DJ Neno, born Tshepo Makapan. Neno lives with scoliosis.
At 26, his foray into house music began less than two years ago, galvanised by the journeys of Black Coffee and Kabila.
Having met his idols, Neno credits their influence for driving him forward in a world that frequently overlooks talent in favour of appearance.
“I wish the music industry would advocate for more disabled DJs like me and ensure we get the recognition we deserve,” he said.
“In 2024, I had an opportunity to meet up with Black Coffee and DJ Kabila at one of Black Coffee's events after they heard me mentioning them on Tbo Touch’s The Touchdown show on Metro FM. DJ Kabila called me to attend the event.
“They have always given me hope because they shine differently and they are my inspiration.”
Neno’s story also speaks volumes about community support and personal discipline, which have kept him focused on pursuing a life enriched with music rather than succumbing to societal pressures.
“My family and the community have been supporting me since the beginning of my music journey and they believe that I can change my life and bring hope to the community. Being a DJ keeps me away from trouble,” he remarked.