DJ Solange: Thriving in a male-dominated industry

For Solange Torres, popularly known as Theboysolange, the DJ booth is a place of command, yet reaching it was no easy journey.

Raised in Namibia with Portuguese and Angolan heritage, Torres has established herself as a distinct voice in the local music scene, firmly rooted in hip-hop despite external pressure to conform to more commercial sounds.

Her journey into professional DJing was not a linear path. Before taking to the decks, Torres worked a conventional 9-to-5 job. It was only after observing others navigate the entertainment industry that she realized DJing could be a viable career. However, the transition from a structured corporate life to the unpredictability of music was fraught with uncertainty.

“Change isn’t always beautiful,” Torres says regarding that pivot. “Sometimes it looks like you’re making the wrong decision.”

Torres notes that this uncertainty was compounded by the realities of being a woman in a space traditionally occupied by men. She quickly discovered that her competence was often questioned before it was acknowledged, and being underestimated became a routine part of her work. Without formal management, the logistical side of the business – such as negotiating fees and commanding respect – added a layer of significant strain.

“The doubt was intensified by gender,” she explains, adding that “the need to constantly prove myself” was an exhausting aspect of building her career. She faced frequent assumptions that opportunities were afforded to her based on appearance rather than technical ability.

Despite these hurdles, Torres has remained steadfast regarding her musical identity. While promoters have often encouraged her to shift toward more commercially dominant genres, suggesting that hip-hop would limit her professional growth, she has consistently declined. For Torres, staying true to her sound is a matter of alignment rather than defiance.

“My destiny doesn’t need to make sense to anyone else,” she asserts.

This deep connection to music stems from her upbringing. “I grew up in a household where music was part of everyday life,” she recalls. Her weekend mornings were defined by her mother playing music while cleaning, creating an environment where sound was expressive and physical rather than background noise. Influenced by early exposure to platforms like Trace Urban and Channel O, she developed a taste for rap and R&B, citing artists like Nicki Minaj, Drake, J. Cole, and Lil Wayne as enduring influences that anchor her sets today.

While she describes herself as having social anxiety offstage, Torres feels grounded behind the decks. Her sets are guided by instinct and a trust in her own judgement, prioritising confidence over conformity. Offstage, she is protective of her peace, identifying as a homebody who prioritises rest and the gym to maintain mental health – practices she valued long before entering the music industry.

Looking ahead, Torres is currently experimenting with music production and is considering completing a single this year, though she refuses to rush the process. If her journey had a soundtrack, she notes it would be ‘The Story I’ll Tell’ by Naomi Raine – viewing her career not as a conclusion, but as a narrative that is still unfolding.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.