From Chatsworth to global fame: Jashmir's musical journey
Local DJ and music producer, Jashen Joel Govindsamy, better known by his stage name Jashmir, has been thrilling fans worldwide with his infectious beats and vibrant performances.
Hailing from Chatsworth, the 25-year-old is carving out a name for himself in the music industry, by blending his deep-rooted love for technology with a passion for music.
Growing up Jashmir picked up IT from his late father, later, in 2013, after playing around with his grandfather’s DJ controller, he realised the magic that lay in beats.
The full-time graphic designer’s music has amassed more than one billion views across TikTok.
He’s also played to sold-out crowds at live concerts and even landed a deal with Netflix in 2022 for a project on the hit series “Blood & Water”.
His music has also been picked up by Grammy Award-winning poppiano star, Tyla.
“I used to play around with my grandfather’s DJ controller and took it to school one day to play for our fun run day and that’s when I realised it’s something I love doing,” said the producer who has been at it for 11 years now.
Jashmir has released viral hits like “Amaiphone” and “Ma Se Kind”. His single “This Is How We Celebrate” has also become a global hit.
“‘This Is How We Celebrate’ with Biggy Lass and NatiQ106 has been one of the biggest songs on TikTok. Garnering over 1 billion views and is also being performed at huge shows by Tyla.”
Most recently, Jashmir released a remix of Fancy Galada, Jonny Blundell, and lyricist Philip Myburgh’s “Sinani” - a support song for the Springbok rugby team.
This remix infuses the song’s spirit of unity with a fresh, dynamic amapiano beat, amplifying its message with rhythmic energy and local authenticity.
“Philip Myburgh is currently working on a collection of South African songs called ‘The Dance Of The Footnote’, which will be released as a full album next year, around the love of South Africa, the springboks and our spirit.
“‘Sinani’ was such a fun song to remix. When Philip came to me with this idea, I already knew we had something amazing. The remix is a new wave amapiano style with a hint of electro and house elements fused with hard hitting log drums to give it a distinctive sound,” he said.
Reflecting on the feelings he wishes to evoke in listeners, Jashmir said, “I want it leave listeners happy and energetic. Since we are going into the festive season as well, it’s the kind of song I would love to hear everyone jamming to at their house parties in December.”
Having performed at festivals, including Nasty C’s “Ivyson” tour in 2018, the DJ said that the Durban Gas Motorshow in 2023 and 2024 was his most notable moments.
“It has been my biggest shows so far. This year garnered thousands of people in the crowd and I did a beautiful tribute to my late dad on stage. It’s something that will stay with me forever.”
Looking ahead, Jashmir aims to collaborate with superstars and cultivate a vibrant music community.
“And I also hope to bag my first Grammy in the next five years.”
With his relentless dedication and emerging talent, Jashmir is well on his way to transforming the South African music landscape.