Published by The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio | 89.5 FM
It was a vibrant and inspiring morning on Morning Cruise as we welcomed a rising star in South Africa’s music scene: the multi-talented DJ and producer, Woza Weh Carlo. Known for his electrifying beats, heartfelt lyrics, and strong community roots, Carlo is not just making music, he's making history.
At just 22 years old, Woza Weh Carlo hails from the historically rich and resilient community of Bonteheuwel, Cape Town. While he admits he's still learning the full story of his hometown, it’s clear that Bonteheuwel’s legacy of resistance and pride is carried in his sound.
Carlo’s journey began humbly during the COVID-19 lockdown, experimenting with music software on his laptop. What started as a hobby quickly became a passion. As his talent grew, he moved from DJing to full music production, a shift driven by his desire to create original, impactful work.
His sound is heavily inspired by South African icon Mr. Thela, but with a unique twist. “If I’ve learned anything in the industry,” Carlo told us, “it’s to be different.”
Joining Carlo in the studio was Latonya, a vocalist based in Hanover Park, another community with deep historical roots. The pair connected via social media, and their synergy was instant. Latonya, who started singing in church and moved from gospel to R&B to gqom, now brings her powerful vocals to Carlo’s productions under the Bongi Empire label.
Together, they’re not just making music, they’re building bridges between communities.
Carlo shared one unforgettable moment from his career: hearing his music played in Cape Town taxis and local cars. “It was a big shock at first,” he admitted. “But it made me proud. I've learned to let the music talk.”
His second hit track, inspired by the klopse (Cape Town’s traditional minstrel carnival) became one of the biggest songs of the year. Creating an anthem for such a cultural cornerstone was both nerve-wracking and deeply rewarding.
Balancing relevance with authenticity is no easy feat, but Carlo’s got it down. A homegrown artist at heart, he keeps sharp by experimenting with trending genres like amapiano while staying rooted in house music, or as many in the Cape Flats say, “yacht music.” His versatility is clear, and so is his humility.
When asked where he’s headed next, his answer was simple: “I’m going where God leads me. I don’t want to limit myself, the sky’s the limit.”
In a lively exchange, Carlo and guests compared Cape Town’s klopse to Caribbean carnivals, both rooted in the history of slavery and liberation. Music, once a tool of survival and storytelling, has become a celebration of identity, and Carlo’s work is part of that living legacy.
With an album possibly dropping in September for his birthday, new singles on the way, and growing collaborations, Woza Weh Carlo is a name to watch. Together with artists like Latonya, he’s proving that the Cape Flats is home t o world-class talent.
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