How DJ Warras took his love for Zulu tradition to 'resting place'

DJ Warras’ sons and pallbearers paid cultural homage in traditional Zulu style during his funeral at the Immaculate Conception Church in Rosebank, Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Family members, friends and colleagues from the media and music industries gathered during the private service to say their final goodbyes.

The ceremony served as a tribute to the popular broadcaster and DJ, honouring both his roots and life while reflecting a sense of identity and shared mourning.

Warras, born Warrick Stock, was shot dead last week in the Johannesburg CBD. He was 40-years-old. Police confirmed on Monday that the two people of interest initially taken in for questioning, were arrested.

One of the most striking moments of the service came as his three sons and the pallbearers entered wearing black suits paired with umqhele, the traditional Zulu headband.

The choice of attire was a deliberate cultural tribute, signalling respect for Warras’ heritage and the traditions that he valued. His casket was also designed in traditional cattle skin, further reinforcing the cultural significance of the farewell. 

Warras had strong ties to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province. He was born in Durban and spent his formative years in Vryheid in northern KZN, where he attended school.

Despite having a mixed heritage, Warras openly embraced his Zulu lineage. Those close to him have described him as someone who reflected the mixed-race identity common in parts of the province, where cultural roots often include Zulu ancestry.

He was also known for his love of the Zulu language and his ease in moving between cultural spaces.

He became a familiar voice and face through his work with major stations such as YFM and 5FM. While his professional life was largely based in Johannesburg, he maintained ties with KZN and was also associated with Durban-based Gagasi FM.

During an interview with East Coast Radio, Gagasi FM head Alex Mthiyane revealed that when Warras joined Gagasi FM, he expressed a desire to host a maskandi show that would resonate with young people in KwaZulu-Natal.

Former 5FM colleague Catherine Grenfell said she struggles to put into words the immense sense of loss.

She described Warras as exceptionally talented and a devoted father to his sons. Warras’ best friend and co-anchor on The Shady Podcast, Phind’Gcobe “DJ PH” Madubela, described him as “crazy in a good way.”

“He was a loving father who worked at YFM and 5FM and had been podcasting for the past two years. He had a sharp strategic mind and was involved in several ventures, including security. It’s hard to speak about him in the past,” Madubela said.

DJ PH added that Warras was never shy about tackling difficult or controversial topics on social media.

Cape Times