In the ever-evolving landscape of South Africa’s dance music scene, Thulani “Slow Poison” Dandala stands as more than just a DJ. He is a cultural architect, an event producer, and a voice shaping how nightlife and music communities come together. In this candid conversation with TheJournalistDJ.com, Slow Poison opens up about his journey, philosophy, and the realities behind the decks.
Setting the Tone, Not Stealing the Show
Fresh off an early set at a Corona festival experience, Slow Poison explains the intentionality behind his performance style, especially when he’s not the headline act.
“It was an early set, so I felt like I shouldn’t rush into anything… you can’t go too hard,” he says. “I decided to go very deep house, melodic, easy listening vibes. It’s DJ etiquette, you can’t be playing hit songs early. You’ve got to read the room.”
For him, the opening slot is not a limitation, it’s a responsibility.
“I don’t mind playing opening sets, especially now in my career. They have a purpose. You set the tone for all the other acts coming after you.”
From Durban Roots to Johannesburg’s Cultural Pulse
Born in Durban and later relocating to Johannesburg, Slow Poison’s journey into entertainment wasn’t necessarily planned, but perhaps inevitable.
“I always knew I’d find myself in the entertainment industry in some way,” he reflects.
Today, he identifies first as an event producer before anything else, a detail that explains his deep understanding of crowd dynamics, programming, and experience design.
“Events are an amazing place to express myself, take care of communities, give back, and empower people.”
The Legacy of Until Until — and Moving Forward
As a co-founder of the influential nightlife movement Until Until, Slow Poison has played a key role in shaping Johannesburg’s urban culture over more than a decade.
“Until Until’s been around for about 13 or 14 years,” he says.
Although he has since stepped away from the brand, his connection remains deeply rooted.
“I’m not there anymore, but as a founder, I’ll always be part of the family.”
Building His Own Ecosystem: Slow Poison & Friends
Beyond legacy brands, Slow Poison is actively shaping his own platforms. Through Slow Poison & Friends, he curates events that blend music, lifestyle, and emerging talent.
“I do a range of things… Slow Poison is my DJ side, and Slow Poison & Friends is my personal event offshoot where I host different experiences.”
His work extends into artist development and brand collaborations, reinforcing his role as a connector within the industry.
The “Controversial Letter” That Sparked Industry Debate
One of the most talked-about moments in his career came when he publicly voiced frustrations about Amapiano artists arriving late for performances, a statement that divided opinion across the industry.
“It wasn’t really a letter… it was me venting,” he clarifies.
Having just come off a demanding three-day festival, he noticed a recurring issue.
“A lot of acts were late… it’s something I’d seen over the years.”
The reaction was mixed, but impactful.
“Some people agreed, some were offended… but it was never about attacking piano. It was about saying, ‘Guys, we’re tired.’”
Advice to DJs: Be Present, Not Just Online
As someone who both books and performs, Slow Poison offers grounded advice to upcoming DJs chasing opportunities.
“Go to the places you want to gig at. Be part of the community,” he says.
For him, visibility isn’t just digital — it’s physical, relational, and cultural.
“I look at DJs who are part of the community that I’m building.”
No Rush to Release Music — Yet
While many DJs are pivoting into production, Slow Poison is comfortable staying in his lane — for now.
“I’m a sharer of music… I’m not producing yet,” he admits.
It’s a reminder that in a fast-paced industry, authenticity still matters more than trends.
A Culture-First Approach to the Industry
At his core, Slow Poison represents a generation of creatives who see music as more than sound, it’s community, responsibility, and storytelling.
Whether he’s behind the decks, curating an event, or challenging industry norms, his approach remains consistent: intentional, people-driven, and rooted in culture.
