Exclusive Interview With Thando

Thando a New York-born DJ with South African roots, recently collaborated with Italian producer Teo Mandrelli on the disco-house anthem “Let’s Go Together,” blending classic soul vocals with groovy, party-ready elements. We got the opportunity to speak with Thando. Discussing his latest release, as well as the previous bangers he has in his catalogue.

Let us in on who Thando is

I’m a DJ/producer from NYC with South African roots. I make funky house music and have worked with people like bingo players, duck sauce, & coco & breezy to name a few.

Describe your sound using five words

Funky, soulful, deep, fun, nostalgic.

We got the opportunity to listen to your pending summer track, ‘Lets Go Together’, alongside, Teo Mandrelli. Let us in on how this collaboration occurred and the history behind the track.

I followed Teo on Instagram this year, and we started DM’ing. We ended up meeting in Miami during WMC. After we connected, he suggested we collaborate on some tunes, which I quickly agreed to. He sent me a sketch of an idea, and I instantly heard the magic. The rest is history.

What us your favourite Thando track?

Good question! I would say “Special” with Mat.Joe was my first time receiving such widespread support and radio play.

You’re performing at Glastonbury and need to get the crowd going. What three tracks are you spinning?

Shakedown (Kid Crème Remix)

Junior Jack – Thrill Me

Round Table Knights – Calypso

Rummaging through your catalogue, we came across, ‘Your Love’. This is a bubbly House feeling track, perfect for the leg movers. How did this track come about?

I found a dope vocal sample on Splice in 2019 and went straight to work. The idea came pretty quickly, and Proper Villains mixed it to perfection. I love that song as it was my first release that did well for me.

Who would be your dream producer or artist to collaborate with?

My dream collaboration would probably be with Dua Lipa or SG Lewis. They’re so good!

What’s next for Thando?

I’m dropping a bunch of music over the next few months and really making a push as an artist. I’ve spent so much time making music for others, and now it’s time to be the face of my own music.