Black Coffee names his son Esona as favourite DJ, says “I’m a fan”

Black Coffee reveals his favourite DJ

Grammy-winning DJ Black Coffee has left fans both surprised and touched after revealing that his favourite local DJ is none other than his own son, Esona Maphumulo.

During a recent interview, the internationally acclaimed producer was asked to name the South African DJ he admires the most.

Without hesitation, he pointed to Esona, popularly known as Sona, acknowledging that his answer might sound biased, but insisting it was genuine.

“It’s going to sound really biased, but it’s Sona. I’m a fan,” he said.

Black Coffee went on to reflect on a recent performance they shared in Cape Town, revealing just how impressed he was by his son’s artistry and growth behind the decks.

“We were playing in Cape Town two weeks ago. He played a set, and for me, you know, he is on a direction where he is shifting the needle as a South African DJ,” he explained.

He praised Esona’s ability to blend local sounds with global influences, noting that his exposure and international experience are helping him carve out a unique identity in the industry.

“With his exposure, and how he is travelling, how he is fusing South African music and what is out there in the world really blew me away. So, that is my favourite DJ,” he added.

The heartfelt endorsement further highlights the close bond between father and son, both personally and professionally.

Could you have guessed Coffee’s favourite DJ in South Africa 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/P7mzAFWNsS

— Black-Jesus💧🇿🇦 (@KingMntungwa) March 20, 2026

Esona has been steadily building his own name in the music scene, even earning international recognition after contributing to Drake’s album Honestly, Nevermind, where he featured on the track “Texts Go Green.”

Following the collaboration, the rising DJ expressed gratitude to those who supported the project, including his father.

“It is such an honour to be a part of this album with so many talented artists, and I’m blessed to work with The Greatest Of All Time to bring you ‘Texts Go Green.’ Special thanks to @realblackcoffee, @champagnepapi, and @ovo40,” he shared at the time.