DJ Cleo - Biography, Career, Albums and Awards

Tlou Cleopas Monyepao, known professionally as DJ Cleo, is a South African Kwaito, House music, and Hip hop producer, born on January 17, 1980, in Gauteng. DJ Cleo has had a successful and extensive career in the South African music industry, producing numerous singles and albums for various artists. He released his debut album, "Es'khaleni," in 2004. In 2012, his single "Facebook" won three awards at the 18th South African Music Awards (SAMA). In 2019, he released his eleventh album, "Eskhaleni 11," which included the singles "Yile Gqom" and "Yile Piano, Vol. 1."

Early Life

Tlou Cleopas Monyepao, better known as DJ Cleo, was born in Vosloorus, Gauteng, South Africa. He grew up with his sister, Lerato Monyepao. DJ Cleo attended Springs Boys High School, where he began to develop his musical creativity, particularly with the encouragement and support of Hilde Buhr. His father, Samuel Monyepao, passed away from diabetes in 2015.

Career Beginnings

DJ Cleo’s interest in music production began while he was working alongside DJ Fresh at YFM, one of South Africa’s most popular youth radio stations. He started as a producer for the "Unrestricted Breakfast Show," hosted by DJ Fresh. This experience sparked his passion for producing, leading him to create music for himself and other artists.

He made his debut recording with "Will of Steel," which featured on DJ Glen Lewis and DJ Fresh's "Gatecrasher" double CD compilation. He later remixed Bucy Rhadebe's single "Uzugcin’ Impilo Yam," which was initially released in 2020. DJ Cleo also contributed to the soundtrack of the Oscar-winning movie "Tsotsi," showcasing his production talents on an international level.

Cleo expanded his career into television, producing for the e.tv soapie "Rhythm City" and co-hosting the documentary reality show "Vaya Mzansi" on SABC 1 in 2013. He also appeared on "Lip Sync Battle Africa" in Season 2 and performed live on "Idols South Africa" during Season 17.

In 2002, DJ Cleo established his record label, Will Of Steel Productions (Pty) Ltd, which became a pivotal moment in his career. Through this label, he has worked with numerous South African artists, including Brickz, Pitch Black Afro, Mandoza, Skwatta Kamp, Mzekezeke, and Kabelo of TKZee. The success of his label and his skills as a DJ have led to several international performances and collaborations.

Studio albums

• Es'khaleni (2004)
• Es'khaleni Ext. 2 (2005)
• Es'khaleni Zone 3
• Es'khaleni Phase 4 (2007)
• Es'khaleni Unit 5 (2008)
• Es'khaleni 6 (2009)
• Es'khaleni 7 (2010)
• Cassanova Vol. 1 (2011)
• Es'khaleni Ext.2 (2013)
• Disclosure (2014)
• Es'khaleni 11 (2019)
• Yile Piano, Vol. 1 (2021)

Awards

2008 - Urban Dance

2008 - Best Male Artist of the Year

2012 - Best-Selling True-Tone Download of the Year

2012 - Best-Selling Ring-Tone

2012 - MTN Best-Selling Mobile Music Download

2021 - Best DJ