DON GQ

Born Hlomla Mpongoshe, aka Jay SA or DON GQ (born November 18, 1997), is a renowned South African hip-hop artist, sound director, event organizsr, and project manager.

Education:

- Business Administration
- Project Management

Professional Experience:

- Project Manager at Future Star Entertainment
- Project Manager at Eastern Cape Artists Foundation NPC

Early Life and Career:

At 14, following the tragic loss of his mother, DON GQ found solace in music. He began attending street cyphers, fearlessly battling artists older than him. This gained him attention and recognition within the local hip-hop community.

Rise to Fame:

His debut EP, "The Come Up," catapulted him to fame, earning him the title "Fresh Prince of Eastern Cape Hip Hop" in S.A Hip Hop Magazine.

DON GQ's subsequent project, "Life In Colour" (2018), further solidified his position, representing Port Elizabeth Hip Hop in Western Cape and George.

Awards and Nominations:

- 2018: Best Hip Hop Artist (Nelson Mandela Bay Music Awards)
- 2021: Nominated as Best Eastern Cape Artist (Mzantsi Media Awards)

Notable Performances:

- 2016: 016 Experience
- 2017: Performed at Freshers Fort Hare University
- 2018: Performed alongside Cassper Nyovest & Nokwazi
- June 2, 2019: Induku Experience
- 2019: Ebubeleni Urban Festival (opened for Emtee)
- 2020: Performed in George, Western Cape
- 2020: Free State Music Festival
- 2020: EBhofolo Arts Festival
- 2021: EQonce Music Festival
- 2021: Performed alongside Kabza De Small, A-REECE, DEE KOALA, and ZAIN SA
- 2021: Ebubeleni Urban Festival
- 2022: Imbewu Arts Festival
- 2023: Rainbow Arts Festival (Cape Town)

Events:

- 2020: Hosted Liquid Easter under Future Star Entertainment

Discography:

- Debut Album: "THE RISE OF DON GQ" (August 2024)

Hit Songs:

- Inja Ye Game
- Pressure
- Bad Feelings
- Ixesha
- uMtheza(Ft. Luniq,. Rilla Rose & Malicon)

Live Concerts:

Watch DON GQ's live concert on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/s75rHG34irs?si=ghdDtqlm5083TMeY

Personal Life:

Proud father of two beautiful daughters, Aluta and Azania.

Interests:

- Football
- Politics
- Law

Favorite Quote:

"If you can't Cav'ive yourself, You can't survive yourself."

Music Focus:

As a conscious artist, DON GQ addresses socio-economic issues, government instability, and peer pressure faced by blacks.
He challenges the illusion of success and unnecessary attention to flashy things, instead focusing on empowering the poor and disadvantaged people of Africa.

With his innovative sound and relentless drive, DON GQ continues to shape the South African hip-hop landscape, inspiring change and upliftment through his music. Follow him for updates on his musical journey!