DJ Sumbody’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million. He owned more than three expensive cars, which included Porsche and Mercedes Benz G-Class AMG.
During his lifetime, DJ Sumbody, whose real name is Oupa John Sefoka, left an indelible mark on the music scene through his efforts as a recording artist, disc jockey, record label executive, and events promoter. Not only did he rack up his total wealth through the aforementioned endeavors, but also earned massively from his investments in the hospitality industry.
How Much was DJ Sumbody’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death?
Before meeting his untimely death in November 2022, DJ Sumbody was said to be worth between $500,000 and $1 million. The serial entrepreneur was known as the founder and co-owner of the popular Ayepyep Lifestyle brand, with two branches in Pretoria and one in Cape Town. Numerous events have been hosted at the venues, and they significantly contributed to DJ Sumbody’s net worth.
DJ Sumbody’s Net Worth was Built From Diverse Income Sources
Though he started his career as a disc jockey while attending the Tshwane University of Technology, DJ Sumbody later began building a brand in the music industry. He had a diversified interest in music which made him work in different capacities. In addition to disc jockeying and singing, he was into record production and established a record label called Sumsound Productions.
Here are more details about the sources of income that account for DJ Sumbody’s net worth.
Radio Presenting
While on campus at the Tshwane University of Technology, DJ Sumbody volunteered as a presenter for a year at the TUT FM. Afterward, he gained a co-hosting spot on the radio station and presented a Friday breakfast show with Lee and DJ Syco. Subsequently, he started presenting a stand-alone show, Mashaedi, on the Engage between 10 PM and 1 AM, which he also produced.
Disc Jockeying Gigs
Oupa John Sefoka was very passionate about disc jockeying that he started hustling while in high school to buy vinyl records from Glen Lewis-owned Exquisite Joint. He later began playing mixes at birthday parties, weddings, and events. He subsequently purchased a PA system which opened the door for more bookings.
When not booked, DJ Sumbody would also make money by renting his sound system to alcohol companies to use for gigs. Furthermore, the Limpopo-born artist had DJing gigs on radio and TV stations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, DJ Sumbody would live stream mixes and performances on Channel O and MTV Base to keep the income coming.
Additionally, he headlined some of the major music shows in the country. In July 2022, he headlined a music event called With a Touch of Diamond Walk All Black Sunday at the Cuba Moses Mabhida Stadium. Throughout his music career, he had performed at different music events, including those organized by him. In 2013, he launched the inaugural annual Sunnyside Beach Block Party and had its 9th annual event in September 2022.
Before his death, he was gearing up to host his annual DJ Sumbody All White Veuve Clicquot Picnic on November 20th, 2022, but sadly, he was slain in the early hours of the day for the big event.
Songs and Album Release
In the year 2012, DJ Sumbody dropped his debut house compilation album titled, ‘Larger Than House: Volume 1’. The next year, he released a continuation of the album, ‘Larger Than House: Volume 2’, and was the producer of both compilation albums. He eventually had his big break in 2017 when he released his song, ‘Ayepyep,’ featuring DJ Tira, Emza, and Thebe, and it was a commercial success.
In the following year, he dropped another smashing song, ‘Monate Mpolaye’ with Cassper Nvoyest. It sold hundreds of copies in the country and was certified 3x platinum by the recording industry of South Africa (RiSA). Its music video uploaded on YouTube has gained more than 3 million views. The acclaimed DJ further collaborated with Nyovest to release the club banger, ‘Remote Control’, the same year.
Later in 2019, he released his debut studio album, ‘Ashi Nthwela’, and featured top artists like Cassper Nyovest, Mdu Masilela, Busiswa, Kwesta, and Thebe. Three singles from the album were playlisted on national commercial radio. DJ Sumbody further released a new single titled ‘Korobela,’ featuring The Lowkeys and Drip Gogo in April 2022.
Record Label
Sumsound Productions is a record label owned by DJ Sumbody. He signed several artists with whom he worked on some music projects prior to his death. The record label’s artists include Snow Deep, The Lowkeys, and Madam MC. They normally perform in shows held at the Apepyep Lifestyle Lounge.
In June 2020, the multi-talented DJ, through Sumsound Productions, partnered with Sony Entertainment Africa. Though the joint venture was meant to promote DJ Sumbody’s music career, it was also focused on the development of young and upcoming artists who were trying to break out in the music industry.
Ayepyep Lifestyle Brand
In the year 2016, DJ Sumbody launched the Ayepyep Lifestyle Lounge in Pretoria. He co-founded the business with his longtime friend, Kagiso Setsetse. The two purchased Café del Khuze in Sunnyside when the opportunity presented itself and renamed it Ayepyep Lifestyle Lounge. During the day, the lounge operates as a restaurant, then at night, it turns into a club.
Later on, Sefoka and Kagiso expanded the business, opening more outlets in Pretoria and Cape Town. Besides Ayepyep Lounge, the DJ reportedly had other clubs in Pretoria, including The Secret Door. Furthermore, DJ Sumbody’s net worth was augmented by the earnings from the sales of the Ayepyep champagne brand, which the seasoned producer launched as part of the Ayepyep Lifestyle brand.
He vigorously promoted his businesses: restaurants, and clubs by hosting several shows at its distinctive venues, and his champagne brand was sold at the events. Ayepyep All Black Affair, Ayepyep Durban, and Ayepyep Marquee Experience are among the music events hosted at DJ Sumbody’s lifestyle lounge.
Transport & Logistics Company
As a serial entrepreneur, DJ Sumbody invested in more than one business. He first plied his trade in the transport business when he used his father’s taxi to commute in order to support himself and build a career in music. Some years later, he established a transport and logistics company called Jamoloto and Son Transport Company.
Events Promotion
The late DJ veered into events promotion as early as 2007, having worked as the promoter of the Mental Shutdown event. Held at Pretoria Showgrounds, the show was successful as it had more than 3,000 students from TUT and other institutions in attendance.
Later on, after the establishment of his restaurants and clubs, the ‘Ayepyep’ hitmaker promoted several music events held at the venues, as well as other shows held across the country. Even though he must have earned an impressive sum of money with his promoting work, the figures are unavailable.
DJ Sumbody’s Car Collection
As a testament to his wealth, DJ Sumbody had a number of expensive cars. He was not only spotted in a Porsche but also drove around Mzansi in a Mercedes G-Class AMG, BMW E30, and BMW M4. His car collection is worth over R5 million.
Porsche (R1.5 million+)
In July 2020, the ‘Azul’ crooner was sighted with a Porsche at the Lockdown House Party hosted at Channel O studio. The car is valued at over R1.5 million, and thus, it’s driven by a few people in the country.
Features:
- Multi-function steering wheel
- Automatic climate control
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Top speed: 293 kmph
- Acceleration: 0-100 kmph in 3 seconds
Mercedes Benz G-Class AMG (R2 million+)
Mercedes Benz G-Class AMG is a popular and sought-after car as it represents a combination of power, versatility, and luxury. As a high-performance, luxurious SUV, the car’s starting price is quoted as R2 million.
Features:
- Twin-turbocharged 4.0 liter V-8 engine
- Three-zone climate control
- Leather upholstery
- 20-inch wheels
- Acceleration: 0-100 kmph in 3.9 seconds
BMW M4 (R1 million+)
DJ Sumbody drove around in a custom-painted red BMW 4. Valued at over R1 million, the BMW M model is designed for exquisite performance. Hence, it uses a twin-power turbo petrol engine.
Features:
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Twin-turbo 3.0 liter V-6 engine
- Anti-lock braking system
- LED brake lights
- Acceleration: 0-100 kmph in 3.5 seconds
BMW E30 ( R1 million+)
Also known as ‘Gusheshe’, the BMW E30 is another car the late recorder producer had. The car model is one of the most iconic BMW 325s in SA back in the mid-’80s and ’90s. BMW E30 is said to be sold at over R1 million.
Features:
- 2.7 liter V-6 engine
- Top speed: 135 kmph
- Acceleration: 0-100 kmph in 7.5 seconds
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Longitudinal engine alignment
Where is DJ Sumbody’s House Located?
DJ Sumbody reportedly had a mansion in Durban. Although details of the house are yet to be made available, it is believed to be as beautiful as the Ayepyep Lounge. The house is also assumed to have an office space, as some of his business partners have talked about having a meeting at the DJ’s home.