SHADU opens 2026 with ‘Afika,’ a two-track Afro House EP landing February 4 via Vibecore Records. Catalog number VCR104EX, the release includes extended mixes of both ‘Afika’ and ‘Teke Teke,’ alongside dedicated radio edits designed for streaming and broader programming. The project centers on forward rhythm, percussive structure, and controlled intensity, reinforcing SHADU’s commitment to floor-focused production.
The title track ‘Afika’ builds through layered percussion and a grounded low end that sustains tension without relying on dramatic drops. Subtle vocal phrases and melodic motifs are placed carefully within the arrangement, keeping space open for long blends and smooth transitions. It is constructed with DJs in mind, prioritizing flow and consistency across peak-time moments.
‘Teke Teke’ sharpens the edge, tightening the groove and increasing rhythmic insistence while maintaining structural discipline. Together, the two tracks position SHADU firmly within Afro House and Latin House-leaning circuits, offering practical tools for selectors who value movement and momentum over spectacle. With ‘Afika,’ Vibecore Records continues to spotlight rhythm-driven releases built for real-world club application.
Interview With SHADU
What parts of the DJ lifestyle take the biggest toll on your mental bandwidth?
Many aspects can be really frustrating and mentally exhausting.
You put your heart and soul into every stage – preparing releases, shooting videos, planning content, searching for interesting locations, and working in challenging conditions – while never knowing how people will react.
For example, when I was filming a set in Italy, I was wearing a very hot outfit, which made it physically demanding. I recorded the set using the AlphaTheta Omnis-Duo wireless DJ system, which runs on a built-in battery.
When I posted the video, many people didn’t realize it was a new wireless DJ system, and I received a lot of hate simply because people didn’t know that DJ setups like this – which can work without being plugged into a power outlet – even exist. Of course, I was upset because I genuinely put a lot of effort into it. Situations like this drain your mental energy the most and require strong emotional resilience.
How do you manage the constant pressure to stay present online and creative in your actual work?
Everything is interconnected.
Today, being an artist is no longer just about releasing music and playing DJ sets. It’s constant work: searching for new ideas, shooting videos, creating content, creative development, editing, and developing concepts and locations for sets. You’re always in motion, trying to grow in several directions at once. I also have a team that helps me bring all of our ideas to life.
Are there mental habits or boundaries you’ve developed that help you navigate the chaos?
I’m not the type of person who gets stressed out by chaos. On the contrary, I love it when everything around me is buzzing, when the energy is high and alive! It actually excites me and never demotivates me. Of course, there are moments when I panic a little – but they last a couple of minutes literally, and then I get back to it, keep doing my thing, and move forward.
Do you ever feel like the emotional energy of DJing gets overlooked?
Of course it happens!
There are moments that demotivate me. I can give an example of my good friend who plays like James Hype. He’s just a guru and he’s been doing it for 20 years, but he plays in very mediocre clubs. I think he is underrated, his talent is not truly recognized, because many big artists don’t know how to play and use DJ equipment like he does. Many people write to me with different questions about help, about how to get on labels, they want to make joint videos with me. I see that people are trying very hard, doing something every day to gain subscribers and develop in the industry.
In the end, it’s not just talent and hard work that matter in the industry, but also luck and good management.
Has your relationship to hustle culture shifted since you first started?
Since I started working in electronic music, my connection to the hustle culture has become even more intense!
It’s really important for me to stay connected with people – with my audience, with my fans, who I actively interact with on social media. Especially after my breakthrough with “Contigo,” I want to move faster, be more active, release more music, and perform even more, giving all my energy to the people!
What does burnout look like in the DJ space – and how do you avoid it?
Of course, there are moments when I get upset! Maybe a track didn’t take off as I would have liked, or maybe a promoter behaved inappropriately.
These things happen. Every artist dreams of millions of plays, and every DJ wants recognition. But I try not to dwell on it! I haven’t been doing this for 20 years, so I don’t feel burned out, and to be honest, I’m very lucky – my life and career are going well, thanks to my people, my fans! I am grateful to God for the loyal people who really enjoy what I do.
Let’s discuss burnout in 10 years – then I’ll be able to provide an adequate answer.
What helps you stay mentally grounded when you’re mid-tour, mid-promo, or stretched too thin?
I love touring, I love promo campaigns and preparing for releases, because you need to film, come up with ideas, and be creative.
Maybe it sounds unexpected, but I really enjoy working a lot and being in a working rhythm. And what helps me keep this pace and stay motivated is my team – first of all my sound producer, who I am very grateful to – my family, who supports me in everything, and my listeners, who love my music. All of this gives me energy and helps me move forward.
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