DJ Kotini has been in the music industry for over a decade.
His musical journey has not been a walk in a park though.
He said he has learnt that complaining can never be a solution.
"When I started deejaying I thought everything was going to be easy. At that time, Durban was dominating. Durban artists were famous for producing only hits. Little did I know the journey was not going to be easy, it was tough and rough," said Kotini, whose real name is Siyabonga Zikode.
Regardless of the difficulties, DJ Kotini decided to not quit.
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"When you get into the industry, you mustn't expect quick fame and money. But the sad truth is, it is difficult to be an artist without money. So that's why I tried other means of living outside the arts.
"I never thought of living music. I love it. Instead, I decided to grow despite difficulties and today I run my own recording label, Kotini Records, and manage artists, including DJ Sithelo," said Kotini.
The DJ urges other artists not to depend on only the arts, but start their profitable projects that are not arts-related.
He also owns a successful restaurant in Durban called Nkonzo's Kitchen. His customers include fellow celebrities from Durban who enjoy traditional food.
"Showbiz is unpredictable. Competition is stiff and sometimes you don't get what you aim for. It's a sad reality. So, to avoid poverty and being broke, which can lead to mental health problems, artists should start businesses that are not related to the industry," he said.
