In the pulsating heart of South Africa’s house music scene, a dynamic duo is making waves. Jazzworx and Thukuthela, comprised of Kamohelo Monese and Kgotso Dube, have emerged as trailblazers, blending soulful melodies with infectious rhythms to captivate audiences. Their latest single, “Ekhaya,” released on June 10, 2025, has solidified their status as rising stars, earning accolades during Youth Month for their innovative contribution to the genre.
House music has long been a cornerstone of South African culture, evolving from the kwaito of the 1990s to the global phenomenon of Amapiano. Jazzworx and Thukuthela, hailing from Spruitview on Johannesburg’s East Rand, bring a fresh perspective. Their sound fuses traditional house with jazz influences, reflecting their moniker “Jazzworx.” “We want to tell stories through our music,” Monese told IOL. “House isn’t just for dancing—it’s for feeling.”
“Ekhaya,” a soulful track about returning to one’s roots, has resonated deeply with listeners. Its lush piano chords and Dube’s emotive vocals have made it a staple on stations like Metro FM. The single’s music video, shot in Soweto, showcases vibrant township life, earning praise for its cultural authenticity. “They’re bringing something real to house,” said Metro FM DJ Lerato Kganyago. Since its release, “Ekhaya” has garnered over 500,000 streams on Spotify, a testament to the duo’s growing fanbase.
Their journey began in 2020, when Monese and Dube met at a local studio. Bonding over a shared love for Black Coffee and Da Capo, they began producing tracks that caught the attention of local promoters. By 2023, they were performing at major festivals like the Johannesburg House Music Festival. Their Youth Month performance at the Soweto Theatre on June 16, 2025, drew a sold-out crowd, with fans on X calling them “the future of SA house.”
The duo’s rise reflects a broader trend: the resurgence of classic house amid Amapiano’s dominance. OkayAfrica notes that South African house tracks, like those by Exte C and Griffith Malo, are regaining traction in 2025. Jazzworx and Thukuthela stand out for their versatility, often incorporating live instruments in their sets. “We play the keys, we sing, we produce,” Dube said in a Music In Africa interview. “It’s about creating an experience.”
Despite their success, challenges persist. The house music scene is highly competitive, and financial constraints limit studio time. “We hustle every day,” Monese admitted. Their grassroots approach—engaging fans on social media and performing at community events—has kept them grounded. They also advocate for more platforms for young producers, a sentiment echoed at the 2025 South African Music Conference, covered by Bizcommunity.
As Jazzworx and Thukuthela prepare for their upcoming EP, set for release in August, anticipation is high. “We’re just getting started,” Dube said. With “Ekhaya” still climbing charts and their live shows earning rave reviews, this duo is poised to redefine South African house, one soulful beat at a time.
Discover more from Vocalist
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
