Duo lead Bolobedu house revolution
Hit single elevates Double Trouble
Bolobedu house is taking off. Double Trouble’s Janisto (real name Jan Maluleke) and CK the DJ (real name Calvin Thaba) from Tzaneen, Limpopo, are part of the next crop of singers pushing this unique brand of South African music centre stage.
Their hit single, Be Careful, has earned this popular appeal and the video is on high rotation on TV channels.
The exponents of Bolobedu house say the dance-inducing track is typical of the genre, in that it has a simple yet catchy melody and the beat is unrelenting. While entertaining, it is packed with subliminal and direct messages. For instance, Be Careful is a warning to watch out for people with nefarious intentions that worm their way in other people’s lives.
The pair have been at it for a while, without much success but they have finally aced the formula. Being signed to indie label Open Mic Production has given them all the confidence they needed to take on the rest of the industry.
Janisto says the inroads made by Bolobedu house are encouraging.
“This type of music has been looked down upon for a long time. It was mocked as bucket music for uncivilised people, but today it is selling and taken seriously outside our region.”
One of the most successful acts of Bolobedu house is King Monada with his monster hit Ska Bhora Moreki.
Setting up Double Trouble energised the two. Now their dream is to see the brand of Bolobedu house take over capitals all over Africa and the world. They believe they have something different and authentically South African.
They also aim to help groom more artists from their home province.