Lesotho-born DJ, producer, and songwriter Kamohelo Monese, widely known as JAZZWRLD, has etched his name into the regional music scene after a major victory at the recent Metro FM Awards in South Africa.
Alongside collaborator Thukuthela (Kgotso Dube), the duo secured Best Duo and Best Dance, marking a defining moment in his career and a point of pride for Lesotho.
JAZZWRLD, who is 22 years old, views the recognition as going beyond just industry validation. It carries deep personal meaning tied to identity and origin, he said.
“Personally, as a foreign national from Lesotho, winning such a prestigious award made me proud of who I am and where I’m from,” he said.
“Also knowing that I’m the first to do this for my people makes me happy.”
The award-winning partnership with Thukuthela was built on alignment and shared intent. Introduced through their manager, Neo Makate, the duo quickly found creative chemistry.
“Our collaboration works because our music is meaningful, and we are committed and dedicated to the sound on the same wavelength,” JAZZWRLD explained.
His artistry is influenced by a deeply personal journey characterised by hardship and cultural richness. Born in Maseru and later raised in Carletonville, South Africa, his path into music was far from straightforward.
“The music in our culture is richer than any other sound in the world,” he said. “Blending it with South African music and global sounds, and also fusing it with my daily living and what I go through, music is a blend of a lot of things.
“It was never easy. Growing up in Maseru, I left because at home they were poor and could not afford to get me working equipment, even basic education. But here I am now.”
This lived experience feeds directly into his sonic identity. Known for merging Afro House with the emerging 3 Step genre, JAZZWRLD’s sound reflects both experimentation and storytelling.
“My sound is way out of this world, it’s a blend of my journey and the sounds I’ve encountered through every experience,” he said.
With momentum firmly on his side, JAZZWRLD is not slowing down. He has already set his sights on the next chapter, announcing the release of his debut album.
“On the 1st of May, I’m dropping my debut album, Secrets of Wrld. Thukuthela is also going to drop a surprise EP,” he revealed.
As his star continues to rise, JAZZWRLD’s story stands as both inspiration and signal, a reminder that talent rooted in authenticity and resilience can transcend borders.
Summary
- Alongside collaborator Thukuthela (Kgotso Dube), the duo secured Best Duo and Best Dance, marking a defining moment in his career and a point of pride for Lesotho.
- “Personally, as a foreign national from Lesotho, winning such a prestigious award made me proud of who I am and where I’m from,” he said.
- “Blending it with South African music and global sounds, and also fusing it with my daily living and what I go through, music is a blend of a lot of things.
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