South African DJ and producer DJ Melzi is expanding his international reach after completing a month of performances in China, with a two-week trip to Dubai next on his schedule and new music planned for Easter 2027.
Born Tumelo Mphai, Melzi performed in Guangzhou and Shanghai, introducing his sound to different audiences while gaining experiences he says are helping shape his development as an artist.
Finding a Connection With Chinese Audiences
For Melzi, spending a month in China provided time to explore a different environment and learn how to connect with crowds unfamiliar with his music.
“Every crowd is different, so you have to understand the energy in the room and find a way to connect with the people in front of you,” he says. “It was exciting to take my sound there and see how music brings people together, even when you come from different backgrounds.”
Among the highlights was performing at Aporro, which he singles out as one of the places he particularly enjoyed.
His approach to winning over new audiences centres on reading the room and responding to its energy, rather than expecting the same reaction at every show.
“You get to share your sound with people in a different part of the world and create a moment with them through music,” he says.
Dubai Offers the Next Opportunity
Following his China run, Melzi is preparing to spend two weeks in Dubai, with club performances expected to form part of the trip. Further details about those appearances have yet to be announced.
Beyond the bookings, he hopes to build relationships and gain a better understanding of another entertainment market.
“Every country has its own entertainment culture, and I believe there is always something to learn when you put yourself in a new environment,” he says.
“For me, it is about building relationships, creating opportunities and making sure that wherever I go, I represent myself and South African music well.”
The trip continues his push to reach listeners outside South Africa while developing connections that could support future international opportunities.
Expressing Himself Through Music and Fashion
Melzi’s international appearances also bring his relationship with Vialli into focus. As a brand ambassador, he sees fashion as another means of expressing the personality behind his music.
“Music is at the centre of what I do, but I also believe that your style says something about your personality and how you carry yourself,” he explains.
For the producer, consistency across those different parts of his public life matters.
“I want everything associated with DJ Melzi to feel authentic to me, whether I am performing, producing music or representing a brand.”
New Music Planned for Easter 2027
Alongside his performance schedule, Melzi is preparing new material, with releases planned for around Easter 2027.
He has not yet announced titles, collaborators or a firm release date, but says his travels are providing fresh creative perspectives.
“Travelling and performing in different countries also gives you new experiences and exposes you to different environments. Those experiences can influence the way you think creatively,” he says.
“I do not want to give too much away just yet, but the plan is to bring my fans something fresh while continuing to grow as a DJ and producer.”
Building Towards a Wider Reach
Reflecting on his progress, Melzi says the opportunity to perform beyond South Africa is something he appreciates, while maintaining ambitions to grow his catalogue and international audience.
“I want to keep growing my music, reach more people internationally and build a career that continues to open doors for me and the people I work with,” he says.
