In this episode of The Almost Perfect Podcast, we shine a spotlight on Ryan van Rooyen, also known in Durban music circles as Fuego Heat — and to the OGs, as Right Hand Ryan. If you’ve been part of the Durban music scene in any capacity, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Ryan van Rooyen. Whether he was in the front row at your gig, helping you move vinyl, or putting you on a stage, Ryan has long been one of the unsung heroes of the city’s creative underground.
But it’s the last couple of years where Ryan van Rooyen has really levelled up. His latest venture, Roots Up, is an events, artist management, and booking agency that’s helping Durban artists get organised, get seen, and get paid. And it’s making waves in a city that’s long needed that kind of structure and support.
In this episode, we trace Ryan’s journey from driving down from Maritzburg for punk nights at Burn, to running a distro, to wedding DJ life, working at Khaya Records, and now launching Roots Up. It’s a deep dive into how passion, hustle, and love for your scene can turn into something powerful and sustainable.
If you’ve ever wanted to understand how Durban’s music ecosystem really works — and who’s behind the scenes pushing things forward — this conversation with Ryan van Rooyen is essential listening.
Click here to listen on the platform of your choice or click play below.
Keep up with Ryan van Rooyen on Twitter and Roots Up on Facebook, Instagram, and their website.
Enjoy this interview? Check out these Almost Perfect interviews with more Durbanites.
