Oskido (born 29 November 1967 as Oscar Bonginkosi Mdlongwa), is a pioneering South African DJ, producer, and entrepreneur. Born in 29 November 1967, he is widely regarded as the “Godfather” of South African dance music and a central figure in the creation and evolution of the kwaito genre. As a co-founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, he has played a transformative role in shaping South Africa’s music industry for over three decades.
Biography: DJ Oskido 
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Full Name: Oscar Bonginkosi Mdlongwa |
Stage Name: DJ Oskido |
Place of Birth: Brits, North West |
Date of Birth: 29 November 1967 (Age - 58) |
Occupation: DJ, Producer, Entrepreneur |
Known For: Pioneer of Kwaito Music |
Spouse(s): Mathapelo Mdlongwa, Kibi Mdlongwa (Divorced -2015) |
Children: At least 4 |
Nationality: South African |
Early Life and Background
Oskido was born in Oukasie township, Brits, in the North West province of South Africa on 29 November 1967. He is the son of Zimbabwean politician Esaph Mdlongwa and South African mother Emily Sophia Molefi.
He spent much of his childhood in Luveve Township in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, where he attended Gifford High School. At the age of 21, he returned to South Africa, initially managing a family business in Brits before relocating to Johannesburg to pursue a career in music. [1]
DJ Oskido Career Beginnings
Oskido’s entry into music is the stuff of legend. While working at the Razzmatazz nightclub in Hillbrow, he sold boerewors rolls before getting an unexpected opportunity to DJ when the scheduled performer failed to show up. That spontaneous moment marked the start of his professional career. [1]
He soon began producing Mixmaster and Big Jam cassette compilations, which gained widespread popularity in South Africa’s underground music scene and helped establish his reputation as a tastemaker. [2]
Musical Contributions and Legacy
Oskido is widely credited as one of the pioneers of kwaito, a genre that emerged in the early 1990s. By slowing down house music tempos and incorporating local vocals and township influences, he helped define a uniquely South African sound. [3]
He later co-formed the influential group Brothers of Peace (B.O.P) alongside Bruce “Dope” Sebitlo. Between 1994 and 2004, the group released multiple albums that contributed significantly to the development of Afro-house.
As a co-founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, Oskido has been instrumental in launching and nurturing some of South Africa’s most iconic acts, including Boom Shaka, Bongo Maffin, Mafikizolo, and Black Coffee.
Demonstrating remarkable longevity, he has continued to evolve with changing musical trends, embracing genres like Afro-house and later Amapiano in the late 2010s, ensuring his continued relevance in the industry. [4]
Business and Media Ventures
Beyond music production and performance, Oskido has built a strong presence in media and business.
He began his radio career at YFM in 1997 before moving to Metro FM, where he hosted the popular show I Believe.
As an entrepreneur, he has ventured into hospitality with establishments such as the Daruma Japanese Restaurant in Johannesburg and his Groove Lounge pop-up restaurant series, blending music and culinary experiences.
In television, he served as a judge on the first season of The X Factor South Africa in 2014, further cementing his influence in the entertainment space. [5]
Legacy
Oskido’s influence on South African music is profound and far-reaching. From pioneering kwaito to mentoring generations of artists and adapting to new sounds like Amapiano, he has remained at the forefront of the industry.
His legacy is not only defined by his music but also by his role as a cultural architect—one who helped shape the sound, business, and global perception of South African dance music. [3]
Personal Life of Oskido
As of April 2026, Oskido is married to Mathapelo Mdlongwa. The couple shares a son named Bass and maintains a relatively private family life, occasionally offering glimpses into their home through social media. In May 2024, Oskido posted a lighthearted moment with his daughters—Mandy, Naledi, and another daughter—jokingly referring to them as his “three wives” while spending quality time together. [6]
Relationship History
Oskido was previously married to Kibi Mdlongwa, with whom he shared a long-term relationship before their separation in 2015. From this marriage, he has two daughters, Mandy and Naledi. [7]
Following the end of his first marriage, Oskido later revealed that he had found love again, eventually marrying Mathapelo. Despite the changes in his personal life, he remains a dedicated father and continues to prioritise his role within his family.
Related Posts
References |
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| 1. | Oskido is one of South Africa’s premier house/kwaito club and radio DJs and producers. | Resident Advisor (ra.co) |
| 2. | Artist – Oskido – Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa | songstats.com |
| 3. | Oskido reveals the inspiration behind the kwaito movement | Sowetan Publication (sowetan.co.za) |
| 4. | How Oskido Helped Rewrite South African Music Across Generations | okayafrica.com |
| 5. | The X Factor SA judges revealed | Drum Magazine (news24.com) |
| 6. | Oskido names son after his dad, unveils new wife | zimlive.com |
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