Ibiza, Spain – In a story that has touched the hearts of music fans across South Africa, veteran producer and industry icon Oskido has shared a deeply emotional tribute to Grammy-winning DJ Black Coffee. The tribute, which details a recent luxury getaway in Europe, serves as a powerful reminder of a 21-year friendship that has come full circle—from the dusty streets of South Africa to the most exclusive private jets in the world.
Taking to Instagram this week, Oskido shared a series of intimate moments from his recent travels with Black Coffee, including stops in the global party capitals of Ibiza and Mykonos. The veteran producer, who is widely credited with discovering and nurturing Black Coffee’s talent during the early stages of his career, revealed that the superstar DJ treated him to an experience of a lifetime.
“In 2005 we saw something in @realblackcoffee when few were paying attention. Today, look at what God has done with his journey,” Oskido wrote, reflecting on the days when Black Coffee was just an emerging talent with a dream. At that time, Oskido’s legendary Kalawa Jazmee Records was the powerhouse of South African music, and his belief in a young Nkosinathi Maphumulo (Black Coffee) would eventually change the course of electronic music globally.
The highlights of the trip, however, were not just the world-class performances or the luxury villas. Oskido revealed that Black Coffee surprised him with his first-ever trip on a private jet—a gesture of gratitude that left the music legend humbled.
“This weekend, he took care of me in Ibiza, then said, ‘Bhuda, let’s go to Greece. Mykonos.’ Next thing, I am on a private jet for the first time in my life,” Oskido shared. For a man who has spent decades in the industry and has seen almost everything, the experience was a profound moment of reflection. It was a physical manifestation of how far they had both come, and a testament to the success of a "younger brother" who never forgot where he started.
The relationship between Oskido and Black Coffee is one of the most respected in the South African music industry. In the early 2000s, when house music was still finding its feet on the global stage, Oskido was already a established "Grootman" (big brother) and mentor. He provided Black Coffee with the platform and the guidance needed to refine his sound and build his brand. More than two decades later, Black Coffee has surpassed all expectations, becoming one of South Africa’s biggest global music exports.
Black Coffee’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. From performing at local clubs in Durban to winning a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album in 2022, he has shattered glass ceilings for African artists. He is now a regular fixture at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals, including Coachella and Tomorrowland, and holds a coveted residency at Hï Ibiza, often cited as the best club in the world.
Reflecting on this journey, Oskido encouraged his followers to give generously and support others without expecting anything in return. He believes that the universe has a way of rewarding genuine kindness and belief in others.
“Life has a beautiful way of coming full circle. Give from the heart. Don’t keep score. God can multiply it in ways you could never imagine,” he wrote. His message resonated deeply with fans, many of whom have followed the careers of both artists since the early days of Kwaito and House music in South Africa.
The private jet trip, reportedly on a luxury aircraft valued at millions of rands, was more than just a flight; it was a symbol of Black Coffee’s appreciation for the man who believed in him when few others did. It highlights a rare quality in the fast-paced and often fickle music industry: loyalty. Despite his global fame and interactions with international superstars like Drake and Pharrell Williams, Black Coffee has remained grounded and connected to his roots.
Oskido’s tribute also touched on the broader impact of Black Coffee’s success. He is seen as a beacon of hope for young African producers and DJs, proving that with talent, hard work, and the right mentorship, the world is within reach. The "I Believe" mantra that Oskido has championed throughout his career was evident in every word of his post.
“Proud of you, Bhuda. I Believe,” Oskido concluded, using the respectful term "Bhuda" to acknowledge the stature his former protégé has achieved.
The social media posts from their trip show the two icons enjoying the sun-drenched beaches of Mykonos and the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza, looking more like family than industry colleagues. The images of them on the private jet, sharing a laugh and reflecting on their journey, have been widely shared, with many South Africans expressing pride in their achievements.
As Black Coffee continues to dominate the global music scene, his bond with Oskido remains a cornerstone of his story. It is a reminder that behind every great success, there is often a mentor who saw the potential before the world did. For Oskido, the first-ever private jet ride was not just a luxury; it was a confirmation that his belief in a young DJ from 2005 was one of the best investments he ever made.
The story of Oskido and Black Coffee is a heartwarming narrative of mentorship, success, and the power of giving. As they continue to fly high—both literally and figuratively—their journey serves as an inspiration to all. It proves that in the world of music, as in life, the most valuable things are not the private jets or the Grammy awards, but the enduring friendships and the belief we have in one another. For now, the "Grootman" and the "Grammy-winner" are enjoying the fruits of their labour, proving that when you believe, anything is possible.
