How did you decide to become a musician and a producer?
It was 1985 and I was touring with Chicco as a dancer. I used to watch him and his musicians playing while I was on stage. I decided then that I wanted to be one of the best producers and keyboardists.
Chicco is still my role model. Back then I never knew I had the talent. I was staying with Chicco at the time and would practise keyboards every day. M’du and I started MM Deluxe in 1989. The style I came up with was very new.
What has contributed to your longevity as a producer?
I’m not just producing for the money and whatever and whomever. I do it for quality. I have to focus and everyone I produce must be groomed to be a superstar. This I learnt from Chicco. I may have dropped out of school, but my work must be perfect. They must all be classics. People must know they are buying good music.
You have worked with almost everyone in the industry. Who are some of your favourites?
I don’t have any. In studio I create an environment which is relaxed. Most of them enjoy working with me. To get the best out of an artist, he or she must feel free and happy and enjoy themselves.
What is the difference between your stage persona in Trompies and The King Don Father?
I enjoy being on stage with Trompies because I am with my niggaz there and we’re driving them crazy. We danced a lot then. I was a dancer first, remember. With the KDF I don’t dance. I have my own dancers for that.
How did Trompies form?
Jairus and I always danced against each other in dance competitions. Trompies was only supposed to be he and I. Eugene and Mahoota wanted to be producers behind the scenes only. But we told them we were pantsulas and it was better to dance as four rather than two. We never got the girls because they thought we were tsotsis with our All Stars and spotties. Trompies was formed not for the money, but for the chicks, man, for the chicks! We chose the name Trompies because that programme was about four hyperactive kids that the ladies didn’t want. Then the girls started running after us and they still do.
Your record company, Kalawa Jazmee, has been going for years and the six directors are quite crazy characters. Is there much fighting?
We do have brotherly fights. We disagree to agree and agree to disagree. When we started this company, we wanted to take it far. This included leaving our egos behind. It wasn’t difficult then because we all needed each other. We have set rules and if you don’t do that, it creates problems. We had to be 100 percent committed to the company otherwise you would be kicked out. We have a meeting every Tuesday and that is so important for us. We must know what is happening with all of us.
Are you happy with your life so far?
Yes. That’s why I am celebrating 25 years in the industry and reaching the top of my game. I’m talking about last year. I’m talking about right now! I am The King Don Father.