Founded in 1991 in the UK, DJ Mag fast became the bible of dance music and DJ culture across the globe, giving DJs and artists the platform to be profiled and their music highlighted, while continually staying on top of trends and shifts in electronic music.
That same ethos will hold true for the South African edition, with the aim of using the magazine to profile and showcase local talent of world-class standard, as well as breaking international and local dance music news with the DJ Mag stamp of approval.
Heather Mennell, editor of DJ Mag South Africa, explained the concept of DJ Mag in South Africa and what will make it different from other editions around the world: "It's a well-known fact that South Africa is the biggest consumer of house music on the planet and our flourishing electronic music industry is producing world-class music and events. Our unique, multicultural take on dance music culture has grabbed the world's attention and by bringing a long-serving, respected international publication like DJ Mag to South Africa we hope to contribute to the growth of the industry by creating an exciting new platform to showcase the talent that is driving the scene."
With the first issue being released at a retail price of R19.90, 3i Publishing is determined to make DJ Mag accessible to everyone who is interested in, and a part of, South Africa's fastest growing music industry. The low cover price will make the magazine accessible to aspiring DJs and producers wanting to learn more about electronic music and how to break into the industry.
A digital edition will also be available on all android mobile devices as well as the local iStore and iTunes platforms making the information available at all times to all readers.
The first issue features DJ icon, Black Coffee, boldly filling the front cover. Features include an exclusive interview with the man himself, as well as a look at the godfather of South African house, Oskido. Alongside interviews with movers and shakers Goldfish and DJ Kent, and innovators such as Haezer and Terrence Pearce, you can read about all the latest events and music from SA and around the world including drum 'n bass legend LTJ Bukem, US decks maestro Dennis Ferrer and many more.
To coincide with the launch of DJ Mag South Africa, a launch event in conjunction with Red Bull Music Academy Bass Camp, followed by others across the country, will be taking place at Chaf Pozi in Soweto on 3 November, featuring Black Coffee, Francois K (US), Vinny da Vinci, DJ Christos and many more. The DJ Mag launch event will give fans the opportunity to get up close to their local dance music icons - many of whom grace the pages of the launch issue. The event kicks off at 2pm and runs until midnight with R50 cover charge that will include a copy of the first issue of the magazine.
DJ Mag South Africa will be available at CNA, Exclusive Books, Musica, Look 'n Listen, Spar and more good retailers from November 2013.
