Sammy Melanie (Godbabe) Interview & Exclusive Nostalgic House Guest Mix
DJ Sammy Melanie is a new recruit to The Godfathers of Deep House SA Godbabes roster. Having joined in 2019 she has developed her DJ skills playing across her hometown of Soweto and is now gaining support via her online sets.
Hello Sammy - great to connect and talk music! How did you get to being a Godbabe?
I joined the Godfathers of Deep House SA as a Godbabe in 2019. It’s an interesting story: I have been a Godfan for the longest time. While purchasing their T-shirt I was communicating with them through their WhatsApp number and I was asked if I would like to join the Godbabes, learn how to DJ & produce music then I said yes.
Where you into house music before that?
Definitely. I have a huge collection of house music, the likes of Mr Fingers, DJ Rocco Rodammal, Louie Vega, Matthew Herbert, Knee Deep the list is endless.
Greatest influences from your early days? DJ’s, people, labels…?
The Godfathers, Da Capo, Lars Behrenroth and Julian Gomes.
Which DJ’s do you love to hear play?
Da Capo and Julian Gomes
What’s it like being taught by The Godfathers?
It’s fun. Their very relaxed people and amazing to work with.
What kind of things do you work on with the guys?
Since I am new in the industry, I’m currently working on perfecting my DJ’ing skills and learning production.
What’s the dream for you from all this?
I want to make a good impact on the culture, share my love for music with a receptive audience and one day be able to produce my own music.
How would you describe your musical style as a DJ?
For me, it’s all about mood and deep, hypnotic groove. Playing those tracks that get you tapping your feet and nodding your head without you realizing it, regardless or genre, tempo, style or release date.
Do you produce tracks too?
Not yet, I will soon.
What can we expect from you on that in the future?
Good music
Any advice for people wanting to be a DJ?
Determine your goals, learn as much as you can such as basic DJ skills, record mixtapes and build a following.
Best piece of advice anyone has given you on the journey so far?
Be passionate about it and love what you’re doing.
All time favourite track to play in a set?
Sohn – Lessons (TimAdeep RA mix).
What’s your favourite DJ set or bit of equipment?
The Pioneer DDJ-1000 (Rekodbox DJ) controller.
South Africa is the centre of the deep house world right now - it must feel special to be where you are right now doing this?
Yes it’s an amazing journey thus far! I’m a proud South Africa.
What can people expect to hear from your guest mix for UM?
An infusion of beautiful synth work, ethereal backdrops, brooding basslines, and all on top of a pronounced foot-shuffling house beat.
What’s on the cards for the next while - gigs to watch out for?
I play at special events and host Nostalgic sessions in Soweto my hometown. But now I’m going digital.
Where can people follow you?
More to enjoy: