You know that guy who lights up your radio every weekend on Jacaranda FM? Yes, we’re talking about Thabiso Khambule, the man of the hour in South African radio. But there’s more to him than just a silky-smooth voice and great music picks.
Thabiso Khambule’s journey through the local entertainment industry has been nothing short of impressive. Today, he is the host of Jacaranda FM’s Weekends with Thabiso Khambule and the popular SA Music Show. On these shows, he shines a spotlight on some of the incredible music emerging from heart of the country – a show that has proven to hit the spot with listeners. However, he’s not just another radio personality. Having many layers, he shares the joy of finding passion in a number of unexpected places. We dive into 10 interesting titbits that’ll make you appreciate Thabiso even more.
He’s a major whisky fanatic
When he’s not on the airwaves, well, Thabiso’s got a thing for whiskey. A true aficionado, he finds himself drawn to the intricacies and complexities that each sip brings. For this DJ, whiskey is more than a drink; it’s a journey into a world of flavours, aromas and stories. Among his collection, one brand holds a special place in his heart – Slaughter House. Cheers to that!
His last meal would be a South African staple
Let’s just say Thabiso likes keeping it close to home! No matter the question, his answer will always be a good old South African braai! Obsessed is an understatement!. “A worsie, a chuck, a chop, a brisket, a fillet – as long as it’s on the braai, it’s a feast!”
Radio has always been a part of his DNA
When asked about his favourite childhood memory, Thabiso says that radio was one thing that captured his attention from day one. “I remember sitting in front of my parents’ radio, recording my own radio show and playing it back to myself while I would intro or back announce a song that Jacaranda FM would play at that time. It was one of the few stations we could listen to in Mafikeng where I grew up.” Now, he’s come full circle, and absolutely living the dream as a radio pro.
He would’ve been a pilot if it weren’t for his passion for broadcasting
The radio wizard spills the beans – if he hadn’t embarked on a career in broadcasting, he would have had his sights set on the skies. Soaring as a pilot, chasing sunsets and touching the clouds. Needless to say, fate had other plans. And now, as he connects with listeners through the airwaves, he admits to finding a similar sense of adventure by sharing stories, music, and special moments. A kind of freedom that comes only by doing the things you truly love.
Thabiso is a massive petrolhead
He’s got a major passion for cars and, as a broadcaster, has revved up this passion by sharing some informative reviews on his social media platforms. With a heart that beats for horsepower and an eye that catches the sleek lines of design, Thabiso has woven his fascination for cars into an engaging online journey. “I have so much to say about cars in general – and I wanted to share these thoughts with my followers. So, buckle up, because every review is a journey, and I’m thrilled to have you ride shotgun with me.”
Thabiso is an anti-bullying advocate
That’s right! He’s on a mission to spread kindness and believes that bullying (and cyber-bullying) is a trend that needs to disappear. “The impact of bullying is tremendous and we need to change the way we approach interactions with each other. Being mean comes too easily to so many and with cyber-bullying especially, it is easier to hurt people we don’t even know.” He believes we should build each other up rather than tear each other down. Preach!
Mpumalanga is his ultimate fave province
Thabiso proudly celebrates the beautiful country we live in, and he’s been all over. But if he had to pick a fave, it’d be Mpumalanga. He swears by its beauty and calls God’s Window the ultimate jaw-dropper. “The province just brings rest to my soul. And the name of its most famous view is completely justified as you stand above or in the clouds, looking over the stunning province.”
His most-played song is a local classic
You’d think a radio star like Thabiso would have some international hit on replay, right? Nope! He’s all about that local love. In fact, he has given many established and up-and-coming artists a chance to showcase their music on his shows.
So, it’s not surprising that his most-played song is a local hit – Mgarimbe’s Sister Bettina. Because, “It’s such a catchy song and still plays such an important role in the South African music scene!”
The best piece of advice he’s ever received was from his dad
Thabiso will never forget the conversation with his dad that just seemed to have stood out over the years.
“My father told me to always respect people, even when they don’t deserve it. It’s hard to be kind when you are treated with cruelty. And so, it takes a lot to rise above it, but takes you further too.” Sure, it can be tough, but it’s what’s taken him far in life. Kindness, even in the face of disrespect, takes you places.
If he could raid any celebrity’s closet, it would be Somizi’s
Somizi is certainly a style icon – and his passion for fashion has left a mark on Thabiso! “He’s not afraid to play around with fashion and has worn some iconic looks throughout his career. He’s always pushing boundaries with his looks and I love how unapologetic he is with fashion. I am sure he has even more up his sleeve which is why I would just love to own his closet.”
Thabiso’s ultimate festive playlist
- Riaan Benadé – Boksemdais
- Appel – Foute
- Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You
- DJ Kent ft Mo-T, Mörda, Brenden Praise – Horns In The Sun (Thakzin Remix)
- Michael Buble – It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
- Dlala Thukzin , Zaba ft. Sykes – iPlan
- Yes God (feat. Dearson) (Mörda, Thakzin, Mhaw Keys Remix)
- Justin Bieber – Mistletoe
- Kip Moore – Heart’s Desire
- Jain – Makeba (Discotheque Fantastastique remix)
Catch Thabiso doing his thing on Weekends With Thabiso Khambule every Saturday from 2pm to 6pm and on the SA Music Show every Sunday from 6pm to 10pm on Jacaranda FM. And, the next time you tune in, remember these intriguing facets of the man behind the mic. A radio star, passionate advocate, a lover of local culture, and a genuine South African at heart!
Details: Follow @thabisokhambule and @jacarandafm on Insta
Compiled by: ALANICKA LOTRIET.
