Covid or no Covid, ‘the show goes on,’ DJ Tira insists

POPULAR Durban DJ and music producer, DJ Tira has insisted that his annual New Year’s Eve festival, Fact Durban Rocks, will continue as planned. The festival takes place on December 31 every year on the outfields of the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

His strong stance comes just after the KwaZulu-Natal government called off any mass participation gatherings amid an increase in cases of positive Covid-19.

But DJ Tira believes the ban is unfair and will hugely impact on the pockets of artists who make a living out of music and entertainment.

“We call on the government to support us as this ban on events will not only affect the livelihoods of artists who are already struggling, but small businesses who depend on such events,” DJ Tira said.

KZN government ruled earlier this week that all events should be cancelled or postponed to next year when the virus spread has eased.

“The Executive Council assessed the request against the Covid-19 situation in the province and the country. KZN is edging closer towards the Covid-19 second wave according to the latest figures,” Dr Nonhlanhla Mkhize said.

Fact Durban Rocks event has been shinning in the past years and bringing joy to citizens even outside of KZN, as people flock to end the year with music and partying.

DA leader in the province, Zwakele Mncwango lashed out at the ANC, accusing them of being selfish.

“ANC politicians only think for themselves and are too selfish. They relaxed regulations just before the November by-elections in order to hold big campaign events and use artists. Now they are closing big events again just before 2021 local government elections,” Mncwango said.

Amongst the events that generates serious money and boost the provincial economy are Durban Jazz Festival, Durban Braai Day, INKKasi Concert and Inanda Dam Festival.

DJ Tira said if people are not allowed to hold gatherings, he will look into ways to take the partying to their homes. “We are working on a virtual concert that will make sure that people have something to stay for at home this festive,” DJ Tira said.

On stage will be DJ Tira, Sjava, Simmy, Nomcebo Zikode, Blaq Diamond, Shimza, Dlala Thukzin and many more, DJ Tira revealed.