!Sooks — The Meteoric Rise of eSwatini’s Electronic Music Maestro

From the pulsating rhythms of eSwatini to the electric vibes of Johannesburg’s underground clubs, !Sooks, born Sukoluhle Dlamini, is a name that’s on everyone’s lips. His artistic journey is a fascinating tapestry of dedication, ingenuity, and a deep-rooted passion for African music and synthetic sounds.

The Genesis of !Sooks

Born in Mbabane, eSwatini, !Sooks was captivated by music from an early age, inspired by the rich sonic landscape of African rhythms. His official foray into the electronic music realm began in 2016 with his debut EP “7 Years of Colour” under Antidote Music. The EP was a harbinger of the accolades that were to follow, including a groundbreaking project under the globally recognized Deepstitched Records titled “A Different Place.”

The Maestro’s Palette

Unlike many artists who stick to one genre, !Sooks is a connoisseur of sound, effortlessly blending elements from different musical traditions. Whether he’s spinning decks or producing tracks, his artistry showcases an impressive range that flirts with everything from deep house to African rhythms.

Awards and Accolades

!Sooks isn’t just making waves; he’s winning awards. In 2019, he bagged “Best Underground Record of the Year” for “Oasis,” and “Best House Artist” at the SWAMA Awards in eSwatini. He even scored the Best Compilation Album for House Afrika Records’ Mzansi House Vol.9, which features his debut album “Symmetry.”

A Global Resonance

The artist’s meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed outside his home country. From gracing stages at MTN Bush Fire Festival in eSwatini to Mixmag’s The Lab in Johannesburg, !Sooks has become a sought-after name in the Southern African electronic music scene. His latest project, “Pot Pourri,” released under the prestigious UK label Atjazz Record Company (ARCo), debuted at No. 2 on Apple’s iTunes Dance Chart (South Africa).

Beyond the Turntable

!Sooks doesn’t just see himself as a DJ or producer; he identifies as both. In a recent interview with untitledmusic.org, he revealed, “Some days I really enjoy production more than DJing and vice versa. So, I’ll go with both.”

The Future is Bright

With upcoming releases planned on Atjazz Record Company and other major labels, as well as collaborations with industry giants like Pierre Johnson and Thoko Namuya, !Sooks is clearly an artist set for even greater heights.