DJ Boonu, born Andile Chili, will be laid to rest in Umlazi this Sunday following his passing on March 25. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – South Africa is in mourning following the passing of Durban gqom pioneer DJ Boonu, born Andile Chili, with funeral arrangements now confirmed after his death in the early hours of Wednesday, March 25.
The cause of his passing remains unconfirmed by his family at this stage.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Andile Chili,” read a statement issued by his multimedia production company, Swidi Films. “Mr Chili, widely known as DJ Boonu, was a valued member of the creative community whose passion, talent, and contribution to the industry will always be remembered.
“His presence brought energy, creativity, and inspiration to those who had the privilege of working with him. On behalf of Swidi Films, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”
The funeral service is scheduled for Sunday, March 29, at King Zwelithini Stadium, beginning at 9am.
His burial will take place at his family home in Ngonyameni, while a memorial service is planned for the following week. Additional arrangements will be announced on the day.
Messages of condolence from across the community have been flooding in, celebrating his musical legacy as well as his character.
Meyer Mec KZN shared a recent memory, writing, “Heartbroken to hear of DJ Boonu’s passing. We shared a special moment together at Menzi High School just days ago. A man who gave back. Condolences to his loved ones. Rest in peace.”
Kwenzokuhle Madlala shared memories of a bond formed during their years at Mangosuthu University of Technology.
“Bros meet on the other side. During Cde Menzi’s passing, I saw a side of DJ Boonu that I never knew. He pulled through for our brother. Having known each other for over 15 years, it was always brotherly encounters when we met. Rest in peace, DJ Boonu,” he said.
Zinhle Lelo paid tribute to his musical legacy, writing, “Rest in peace, DJ Boonu. May his music legacy live on longer, Uswidi Wodwa hitmaker. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
With over ten years in the industry, DJ Boonu became a familiar name in gqom. He first made his mark as the official DJ for Big Nuz before launching his solo career.
Uswidi Wodwa, released in 2017 with collaborators Madanon and Igcokama Elisha, marked a turning point in DJ Boonu’s career, bringing him greater recognition.
Expanding his creative horizons, he stepped into film and production, establishing Swidi Films in January 2024 with a focus on music videos and cinematic projects.
His contributions to music and visual storytelling were acknowledged when he won a South African Music Awards for Best Music Video for “Gucci” by Mthandeni SK featuring MaWhoo.
Umlazi-born DJ Boonu began his full-time DJ career in 2009. Before stepping into the music scene, he held a role as a security guard inspector, a path shaped by financial setbacks that halted his studies in quantity surveying.
He is remembered as an artist who played a meaningful role in the growth of gqom and as someone who consistently supported others in his community.
