DUDUZA – Refentse ‘9iceguy SA’ Mokoena, a DJ and producer born and raised in Duduza, credits his family’s love for music as the inspiration behind his journey into the industry.

Growing up surrounded by music, Refentse developed his unique sound in a sub-genre of amapiano known as havard music.

“What draws me to havard is how the percussion and basslines align so perfectly. It creates a groove that makes me move every time I hear it,” he said.

For him, music is about more than beats.

“This path was motivated by the joy and fulfilment of creating art, the desire for self-expression and connection with others and the pursuit of professional goals like financial stability, status and a fulfilling career.”

Refentse began making music in 2022 after deciding to learn music production. Inspired by artists 034 Mafia, Longboii and Djy Tumie, he has collaborated with J.Ghost, Ta’Havard, DJY Seni and DJ Paptiano and hopes to work with Success SA.

“I produced Bayaphapha and HRVD, currently on streaming platforms. I am working on an album called Havard is a Habit, which has 12 songs and will be released in October,” he said.

He will also soon launch his album, Mfana Havard, in Duduz, and said his music makes him enjoy his creative process.

“My vision, mission and goal all boil down to one thing. Sharing my side of the story. I want people to understand how I view and define havard music. The best way to do that is by giving them music the way I hear and feel it,” he explained.

“An interesting fact about my music is that it is unique and not everyone listens to it, not everyone understands; it is like a newly formed subject that comprises alignment and clear conditions to theory, but it is not easy to understand.”

He concluded by saying music had taught him patience and staying put.