Online Reporter
Stories by Prince Mushawevato
WHAT began as a “temporary” visit to the United Kingdom has unexpectedly turned into a career-defining moment for seasoned club and radio personality DJ Flevah, born Tendai Tembo.
In August 2023, DJ Flevah accompanied his wife and children to the UK to help them settle into their new home.
While he initially planned to return to Zimbabwe after a brief stay, a series of fortunate events have led him to pursue new opportunities in the UK.
Leveraging his extensive experience with Judgement Yard, a renowned sound system that has taken him across the globe (including Australia, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia), DJ Flevah began exploring the UK club scene during his visit.
A chance encounter at a club led to an impromptu performance, where he captivated the crowd with his signature blend of local and international hits.
The enthusiastic reception from both Zimbabwean and international audiences led to further performance opportunities, prompting a significant shift in his plans.
“It is all unfolding like a movie script,” DJ Flevah shared with The Sunday Mail Entertainment.
“I did not anticipate this turn of events and I am enjoying every moment of this unexpected journey.”
Despite having a successful career in Zimbabwe, including radio appearances and various business ventures, DJ Flevah initially intended to maintain a base in his home country.
However, the unforeseen success of his UK performances has presented him with exciting new career prospects.
“I had some running deals back home. The plan was for me to briefly stay this side, then return home. I would then later on visit my family as and when necessary.”
The charismatic DJ, renowned for his dynamic sets featuring a blend of dancehall and other genres, has cultivated a strong following in Zimbabwe. However, his recent foray into the UK club scene has garnered significant international attention.
Since securing his initial club slot abroad, demand for his services has surged, with inquiries pouring in from Ireland, Poland, Scotland, the United States and across Africa, including South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria and Cameroon.
“I currently hold a residency at Kumba Lounge in Luton, a Zimbabwean-owned club. Partnering with Nigerian DJ OJ The DJ, we host ‘Zim Meets Naija’ every other Saturday, attracting a diverse crowd, particularly Jamaicans and other international attendees,” DJ Flevah shared.
This success has extended to other venues, including Together Bar in Derby, where he hosts a “Zim Piano” night at a Nigerian-owned establishment; and a club owned by a Cameroonian in Leicester, where he caters for a more mature audience with his old-school selections.
“These experiences have introduced me to a completely new fan base. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. My career trajectory has taken an unexpected turn, culminating in a recent booking for a wedding in the Maldives,” he remarked.
Beyond club residencies, DJ Flevah has graced prestigious events such as the Zim Link Up, ZimFest, the Zim Cup Clash (UK), the Zim Turn Up and Y2K’s Summer Festival.
Notably, he shared the stage with Jamaican reggae star Chris Martin at a recent concert, showcasing his international appeal.
“The Jamaican star was the headline act. It was only Gemma and myself that represented Zimbabwe at the gig. I was also the headline DJ for Killer T’s show and ‘Night with Winky’ concert that were both successful,” he added.
While his entertainment career is flourishing in the UK, he faces the challenge of balancing his weekend gigs with the demands of daily life.
“I have had to look for a part-time job outside my now-busy weekend. I work from Monday to Wednesday. Being idle during these days was causing me boredom. Thursday, I am usually free and busy working on my playlists for that particular weekend,” he said.
“Working outside entertainment has been a challenge for me, though. I have been an arts person for a very long time. The long-term plan, though, is for me to eventually fill my whole week with events and focus 100 percent on gigs.”
Despite the success of his UK ventures, DJ Flevah acknowledges the challenges of adjusting to a new lifestyle.
“Here, everything is very professional and time is of the essence. I do miss the relaxed and vibrant party culture of Zimbabwe,” admitted the Cambridgeshire-based DJ.
While balancing his solo career, DJ Flevah said he remains an integral member of Judgement Yard, alongside DJ 2Bad and MC Tawastok (better known as Shotboss).
Looking ahead, he plans to eventually transition away from full-time DJing and pursue his passion for farming.
Turning 41 this year, his interest in showbiz started just before the turn of the new millennium when he was still a learner at Nhowe High School in Macheke.
He was actively involved in selecting music and movies for fellow learners’ weekend entertainment events, foreshadowing his future career path.
