mitokon
mitokon, real name Yoko Itaya, is a DJ/music writer based in Tokyo specializing in contemporary African dance music, especially of South Africa.
Since first setting foot on the continent in 2008, mitokon has continued to immerse herself in African culture, visiting South Africa and other nations in the region on a yearly basis.
After a few visits, she became captivated by the highly sophisticated and sensational sounds of Africa's latest music scene.
Since then, she has never ceased to pursue the music, culture and numerous gems born out of it and has been spreading the word in Japan via social media and articles in music magazines.
From 2017, she has been an active DJ specializing in South African genres, including Gqom, Kwaito, South African House and the latest craze of Amapiano.
She is also active as a member of the Tokyo-based Gqom party crew "TYO GQOM", having performed at Nyege Nyege Festival held in Uganda in 2022 and FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL in 2025.
Since first setting foot on the continent in 2008, mitokon has continued to immerse herself in African culture, visiting South Africa and other nations in the region on a yearly basis.
After a few visits, she became captivated by the highly sophisticated and sensational sounds of Africa's latest music scene.
Since then, she has never ceased to pursue the music, culture and numerous gems born out of it and has been spreading the word in Japan via social media and articles in music magazines.
From 2017, she has been an active DJ specializing in South African genres, including Gqom, Kwaito, South African House and the latest craze of Amapiano.
She is also active as a member of the Tokyo-based Gqom party crew "TYO GQOM", having performed at Nyege Nyege Festival held in Uganda in 2022 and FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL in 2025.
Artist Interview
What are your musical roots?
The first South African song I really fell in love with was “Loliwe” by Zahara. Watching the music video for Mafikizolo’s “Khona (feat. Uhuru)” also had a huge impact on me, and that experience eventually led me to what I do today.
Growing up, I listened to Michael Jackson, Queen, and funk, while also being a huge fan of Namie Amuro and B’z!
Growing up, I listened to Michael Jackson, Queen, and funk, while also being a huge fan of Namie Amuro and B’z!
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Kabza De SmallThe King of Amapiano! I’ve always loved his groove.
- 2.Rap AcademyA studio and company that represents the Amapiano scene today. Every track by their artists is seriously good.
- 3.QUE DJA legendary Gqom DJ and producer. They might be my favorite, not only because of the music, but also because of their approach to their career. They’re coming to Japan in August!
Tokyo's Local Scene
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Compared to when I first started DJing, I feel that more and more DJs are incorporating South African dance music such as Amapiano and Gqom into their sets.
At first, people saw them as unusual genres that not many DJs played, but that’s no longer the case, which makes me really happy.
At first, people saw them as unusual genres that not many DJs played, but that’s no longer the case, which makes me really happy.
What local spots would you recommend?
Record Shop
EL SUR RECORDS— 江戸川橋 / Edogawabashi
I haven’t been able to visit as often lately, but I don’t think there’s anywhere else quite like this shop when it comes to its unique selection of what is broadly considered “world music.”
Label / Series
GQOM MIXTAPES
Not in Tokyo, but this is a live Gqom mix stream run by members of Umgqibelo, a party based in Johannesburg, South Africa, that is helping support the current Gqom scene. DJs and artists from all over the world, not just South Africa, take part. I’m part of it too!
Which local DJs/artists would you recommend?
TYO GQOM
tyogqomI respect every member of TYO GQOM!
Showcases
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Born in 2001. Began DJing and organizing events in January 2024. Builds his sets primarily around techno, footwork, and
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