DJ Stokie Biography, Career and Discography

DJ Stokie Biography

Setoki Mbatha, widely known by his stage name DJ Stokie, is a prominent South African disk jockey and record producer, gaining recognition for his dominance in the Amapiano music genre. His amapiano beats have made a significant impact, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

DJ Stokie frequently collaborates with his friend DJ Jaivane, and together, they form a dynamic duo that performs at various parties and events around Johannesburg and Pretoria. Their music, characterized by amapiano sounds, has garnered widespread popularity, making waves across the country.

In certain circles, DJ Stokie and his long-time collaborator DJ Jaivane are revered as the Kings of Amapiano, a title they share with other notable figures in the genre such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, MFR Souls, and JazziDisciples. 

DJ Stokie Biography – Early Life

Born on February 13, 1983, DJ Stokie hails from the township of Soweto, where he spent his formative years. His journey into the world of deejaying commenced at a remarkably early age, and he began crafting beats from his backroom in Mzimhlophe, Soweto.

Driven by a passion for his craft, DJ Stokie remained consistent in his efforts. Recognizing the need to showcase his talent to a broader audience, he entered a feature on the Johannesburg-based youth station YFM, participating in the Mad Half Hour segment. His skills earned him a spot as a finalist in 2006, marking an early milestone in his burgeoning career. 

DJ Stokie Biography – Career

Passion and the joy of pursuing their love for music were the initial rewards for Stokie and Jaivane during their early days. Their performances were met with appreciation, often in the form of a plate of food or scones and ginger beer.

In an interview, DJ Stokie shared that he used to receive R150 for playing the entire weekend, which was insufficient considering the cost of vinyl records, priced at R100 each at that time. Despite the modest pay, their dedication to creating good music remained steadfast. Today, the duo is enjoying the fruits of their persistent efforts.

DJ Stokie embarked on his career in the early 2000s, entertaining crowds at local pubs and parties. However, his breakthrough came in 2006 when he emerged as a finalist on the Mad Half Hour, a feature program on the Joburg-based youth radio station YFM. To this day, Stokie continues to deliver regular mixes and sessions for YFM. With over twenty years as a Disk Jockey, he also showcases his skill as a pianist, boasting a wealth of experience in the music industry.

DJ Stokie showcases remarkable talent with the piano, an instrument he has mastered over many years. He is recognized as one of the pioneers of the new Amapiano music sub-genre, which has gained immense popularity in South Africa. His single "AmaInternational" stands out as a fan favorite within the Amapiano community.

The single "AmaInternational," released on June 21, 2019, quickly gained popularity, becoming a favorite among Amapiano enthusiasts. DJ Stokie's first album, "Amapiano Movement Vol 1, Mixed by DJ Stokie," was released in the same year, offering a unique blend of vocal drums and tribal bass. On December 13th, 2019, DJ Stokie released his debut album titled "Amapiano Movement, Volume 1," marking the beginning of a series of episodes to come. The album featured contributions from a diverse array of artists, including DJ Maphrisa, Kabza De Small, De Mthuda, Loxion Deep, Bitter Soul, Masterpiece, Stahndo, Lebo & Killa, and DJ Farmer. Notably, his long-time collaborator Jaivane was surprisingly absent from the playlist.

Throughout his career, DJ Stokie has collaborated with numerous prominent artists and fellow disk jockeys. In 2019, he and his friend Jaivane embarked on a tour, starting in the East Rand and earning them the title of kings of Amapiano. Their collaboration and influential contributions have solidified DJ Stokie's position as a key figure in the Amapiano music scene.

DJ Stokie Biography – Other Business Ventures

DJ Stokie goes beyond his role as a musician; he is also a savvy businessman with a keen entrepreneurial spirit. Serving as the founder and CEO of his own enterprise, DJ Stokie's business ventures further establish him as a multifaceted entertainer. Despite achieving significant success, he maintains a strong connection to his community.

Notably, DJ Stokie is actively involved in philanthropy, demonstrating a commitment to giving back. His support extends to various causes, with a focus on initiatives related to education and healthcare. By engaging in philanthropic endeavors, DJ Stokie showcases a sense of responsibility and a desire to make a positive impact on the well-being of those in need within his community.

DJ Stokie Biography – Personal Life

DJ Stokie takes pride in his role as a father and husband. He entered marital bliss with his wife, Phumla Pretty Mbatha, in 2016. Pretty holds the position of director at Kwa-Stokie Pty Ltd. Together, they share the joy of parenthood, blessed with a daughter named Sphesihle Mbatha.

The couple's love for their daughter is evident in the creation of an Instagram account dedicated to Sphesihle, with management handled by DJ Stokie's wife.

Living in Soweto, DJ Stokie enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, evident in his choice of luxury transportation. He owns a Mercedes G wagon series, an opulent vehicle estimated to be worth around R3.1 million, adding a touch of sophistication to his successful and multifaceted life.

DJ Stokie Biography – Discography

Albums

2019 - Amapiano Movement
2020 - My Journey
2023 - My journey Continues

EPs

2021 - Soke S'bone
2023 - Dlala Stokie

Singles

2019 - Amainternational
2021 - Mamela
2021 - Ipiano e'Soweto
2022 - Aw'ufani Nabanye
2023 - Sqhebe
2023 - Masithokoze