Shimza

Ashley Raphala, better known as Shimza, has emerged as a standout figure in South Africa’s music scene, quickly rising to international recognition within Afro house. Growing up in Tembisa, he developed a love for music in his mid-teens, with strong backing from his family helping shape his early journey. What followed was a steady climb defined by determination and impact—winning major DJ competitions and building a name that extends far beyond the decks.

Nicknamed the “Effect Master’ and ’Vinyl Assassin’ by many adoring fans, Shimza’s playing style is infectious and creative with dance floors left speechless by how deftly Shimza punctuates his sets with complicated queuing and looping as he weaves together his signature “Afro-tech’ sound.