By Agreement Mabunda
DAN VILLAGE-Matimu Mushwana popularly known as “Gogo denz “ once wanted to become a Civil Engineer and serve South Africa, but that dream faded – to the point where he dropped out of school and turned to crime and became a heroin addict.
Matimu was born and raised in outskirt of Dan Village, outside Tzaneen. He was raised in a household where things were difficult, economically for him to carry on with his studies. Like most youngsters, he grew up with dreams and goals for his future. But things changed for Matimu when he was in grade 11 and opted to drop out of school due to academic and financial challenges.
He dropped out of school in grade 11 and became involved in criminal activity. “During my childhood stage, I did bad things that you wouldn’t believe if I told you about it because I don’t look like them now, I am a changed man,” he told Tzaneen Voice. Matimu, now a changed young man, feels music gave him a second opportunity. “I decided to focus on music because it provides food for me and my family,” he explained.
Matimu began his musical career as a rapper in 2015, however he was later introduced to Madamara music. “I fell in love with it and decided to give it a shot,” Matimu explained. Matimu has collaborated with Bad Company, Alaska Mafia Family, Dan Family, Jonical Deeper, and many more.
He subsequently released his single smash “Mama waka X KrazieGogo,” which helped him gain popularity and recognition in the music world. In 2022, he had his first television appearance on DSTV Channel 0. As he describes himself, he is a very clever, creative, talented, visionary, humble, and God-fearing young man who was and continues to be inspired by Mandla Spikiri and influenced by General Manizo to be where he is now.
Matimu is also the founder of the Non-Profit Organisation called feed a child, save a life. The NGO was founded to save underprivileged children and give back to the Dan community. “I am a proof that a drug addict can change into a better person”, he concluded.
