Born from tragedy but driven by love, Joy Steffens’ journey as a DJ proves that it’s never too late to chase a dream… even if it isn’t your own.
Johannesburg, South Africa (10 September 2025) – Sometimes, the most powerful stories are born from heartbreak and transform into something that uplifts an entire nation.
On this week’s “Good Things with Brent Lindeque”, I had the absolute privilege of chatting with Joy Steffens. You might remember her as “Mammabear Joy”, the remarkable woman who became a DJ at 60 in honour of her son, Dylan. And yes, you can watch the full podcast below.
South Africa first met Joy during lockdown, when her story captured hearts across the country. Her son Dylan was just 22 years old when he tragically passed away from cancer on the 24th of June 2016. He adored house music, often speaking about his dream of one day becoming a DJ. Although Dylan’s life ended far too soon, Joy decided that his dream didn’t have to. She stepped up, headphones on, heart wide open… and went to DJ school.
At 60 years old, she mastered the art of mixing beats and rhythms, creating sets that would have made her son beam with pride.
“I just have wobbles in my tummy as I miss him so much, and he was such a gorgeous looking boy and made my heart so happy. I want to continue learning how to deejay so that I can let him smile up in heaven,” she told us.
Joy’s journey hasn’t just been personal; it’s been shared with all of us. She’s been featured on Pioneer, 5FM, DJ Mag, and she even opened the main stage at one of the biggest dance festivals in South Africa.
Think about that for a moment: a mother, stepping into her son’s dream, keeping it alive but also elevating it to a stage where thousands will dance, celebrate and feel the love that inspired it all.
What makes this story so moving isn’t just the music… it’s the love that pulses through every beat Joy plays. When she steps behind those decks, Dylan is right there with her. Her courage, her energy and her commitment remind us that grief can be reshaped into something profoundly beautiful.
We see you Joy. And we see Dylan too. Together, through music, you’re both lighting up dancefloors and hearts across South Africa. This is love.
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