Shamiso Opens Up on Career Growth, New EP and 2026 Vision at Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town
Shamiso Opens Up on Career Growth, New EP and 2026 Vision at Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa — Johannesburg-based DJ and producer Shamiso, born in Durban, continues to cement her position as one of South Africa’s most exciting female DJs. This past weekend at Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town, UrbanStreetCulture caught up with Shamiso for an exclusive interview that explored her journey, upcoming music, fashion choices, and bold plans for 2026.
Fresh from her performance at one of the country’s most culture-defining festivals, Shamiso spoke candidly about her evolution in the music industry and what the next chapter holds.
From Durban Roots to Johannesburg Stages
Born in Durban and now based in Johannesburg, Shamiso’s sound and identity reflect a blend of coastal rhythm and urban energy. During the interview, she reflected on her early beginnings, navigating a male-dominated DJ space, and how consistency and discipline have shaped her career.
Her rise has been marked by versatility, strong live performances, and a growing presence across major festivals and nightlife platforms in South Africa.
Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town: A Cultural Touchpoint
Milk + Cookies Festival has become a key platform for youth culture, music discovery, and lifestyle expression. Performing in Cape Town this past weekend, Shamiso described the crowd as “open, energetic, and deeply connected to the music,” emphasizing how festivals like these help artists reach new audiences.
The festival environment provided the perfect backdrop for a conversation about creativity, visibility, and the future of African electronic and club music.
New EP Confirmed for 2026
One of the standout moments of the interview was Shamiso confirming that a new EP is set to drop in 2026. While keeping details under wraps, she shared that the project will reflect her personal growth, musical maturity, and experimental direction.
Fans can expect:
- A refined yet bold sound
- Deeper storytelling through production
- Music designed for both festival stages and intimate dance floors
The upcoming EP marks a major milestone in Shamiso’s career and positions her for further national and international recognition.
New Event Property Launching in 2026
Beyond music, Shamiso revealed that she is planning to launch a new event property in 2026, aimed at creating inclusive, high-energy spaces that spotlight emerging talent and community-driven experiences.
This move signals her transition from performer to cultural architect — contributing not only through sound, but through platforms that shape nightlife and creative ecosystems.
Fashion Meets Performance
Fashion also played a key role in Shamiso’s Milk + Cookies Festival appearance. She was dressed in G-Star RAW, styled effortlessly with Nike sneakers, blending contemporary streetwear with performance-ready comfort.
For Shamiso, fashion is an extension of her identity:
- Confident
- Functional
- Unapologetically expressive
Her look echoed the same authenticity found in her music — grounded, modern, and globally relevant.
New Year’s Resolutions and Forward Momentum
As the conversation turned to the future, Shamiso shared her 2026 New Year’s resolutions,
These goals reflect an artist who is not only focused on the moment, but intentionally building a sustainable career.
UrbanStreetCulture on the Ground
The interview was conducted by UrbanStreetCulture at Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town, continuing the platform’s commitment to documenting South African music, fashion, and youth culture in real time.
UrbanStreetCulture remains at the forefront of cultural storytelling — spotlighting artists like Shamiso who are shaping the future of the scene.
Shamiso’s appearance at Milk + Cookies Festival Cape Town was more than just a performance — it was a statement. With a new EP on the way, an event property launching in 2026, and a clear creative vision, Shamiso is stepping confidently into her next era.
Check out the interview here
Stay tuned to UrbanStreetCulture for exclusive interview clips, visuals, and continued coverage of South Africa’s most influential cultural moments.
About Shamiso
Shamiso Maponga is the birth name of the South African DJ and producer professionally known simply as Shamiso. Based in Johannesburg, she is recognized as a trailblazing figure in African Electronic Music, specifically within the Afro Tech and Afro House genres.
Musical Profile
- Artistic Identity: She is known for a “boundary-pushing” sound that blends indigenous Afrocentric rhythms with modern electronic beats.
- Performance: Entering 2026, she has established a global presence, performing at international platforms such as HÖR Berlin and ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event).
- Key Works: Her portfolio includes high-profile sets and curated playlists, such as the Unreal Wave series, which focuses on the evolution of African electronic sounds.
Career & Media Presence
- Background: She is often noted as a “musical nonconformist” who aims to revolutionize the global perception of African music.
- Wider Influence: Beyond the DJ booth, she is active in the fashion and beauty space, viewing style as a direct extension of her musical artistry.
- Digital Presence: She maintains a significant following on platforms like Instagram (@sha.miso) and Resident Advisor, where she documents her international tours and creative process.
Distinction: While she shares the first name Shamiso with media personality Shamiso Mosaka (the daughter of Azania Mosaka), Shamiso Maponga is the specific name associated with the Electronic Dance Music DJ identity.
About TheHoodShed Visuals
From rehearsals to corporate health and safety videos, TheHoodShed has become synonymous with high-quality, culturally aware visual storytelling. Five years ago, Matt received a text from one of Cape Town’s finest musicians, Larnelle Gordon, asking for a ride to a rehearsal with Lady Zamar. During soundcheck, alone with the bassist, Lady Zamar began a stunning rendition of the classic church hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Compelled to capture the moment, Matt recorded it on his phone—one of the first times he recognized his calling as a videographer and a meaningful contributor to the creative journey of others.
Since then, TheHoodShed have grown to deliver visuals for artists, live events, and brands, Every project is approached with intention, blending technical skill with a deep appreciation for music, culture, and storytelling—making TheHoodShed a trusted partner in bringing creative visions to life.
