LIMPOPO – For Katlego Amos Mashai (28), better known as AmoKaMeropa, drumming has been more than a musical skill. It has been a passion since childhood, growing from beating on old buckets and tins into a professional career on stage as one half of the dynamic percussion duo Drum Cartel.

Childhood rhythm becomes a calling

AmoKaMeropa recalls how his love for rhythm began at an early age, when ordinary household items became his first drum kit. At school, his passion often followed him into the classroom, where he would drum on his desk while classmates danced and sang along.

Little did he know that those childhood moments would eventually shape his future.

A chance meeting sparks Drum Cartel

The journey towards Drum Cartel began in 2016, when Mashai met DJ Trust, whose real name is Confidence Ramoshaba (34). Their first encounter quickly revealed a natural musical chemistry.

According to Mashai, DJ Trust was behind the decks in the studio when he walked over to a set of drums and began playing along to the music.

“At that minute we all froze and gazed at each other, hearing the sweetness of our combination and compatibility, and we knew what to do next,” he recalls.

From that moment, Drum Cartel was born.

Performances built on spontaneity

What makes the duo distinctive is their spontaneous approach to performance. Rather than rehearsing every movement, they allow the music and atmosphere to dictate their performance.

“We decided to play what we felt deep in our bones because we do not rehearse what we do on the stage. It comes spontaneously and naturally,” said AmoKaMeropa.

Using an assortment of unique percussion instruments alongside house music, Drum Cartel creates energetic performances designed to connect directly with audiences.

For AmoKaMeropa, the drums are about more than entertainment.

“It is important in our performance because it speaks to the soul and it revives memories and emotions,” he said.

House music roots and influences

House music, which AmoKaMeropa says was among the genres they grew up listening to, remains central to their sound. They draw inspiration from some of South Africa’s most influential artists, including Black Motion, Afrikan Roots, Black Coffee, Shimza and Culoe De Song.

Studio work and industry collaborations

The duo’s talents extend beyond live performances. Drum Cartel are also producers and have worked with established names including Master Believe, DJ Call Me and Makhadzi on Kweta, as well as Juziee SA, known for the hit Hamba Juba.

AmoKaMeropa says technology also plays an important role in ensuring that the live drums blend seamlessly with electronic music.

Fans at the heart of every show

The response from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans often reaching for their phones to capture the energetic performances.

“We are all about our fans and we aim to deliver their satisfaction because we are the Drum Cartel because of them,” AmoKaMeropa said.

Looking ahead

The duo is currently working on new projects and collaborations, with several releases expected soon.

AmoKaMeropa believes their style of performance will remain relevant because it allows audiences to become part of the experience in real time.

Preserving South Africa’s musical heritage

Beyond entertainment, Drum Cartel also hopes to contribute to the preservation of South Africa’s musical heritage.

“In a society we live in where great music legends are forgotten, it is of paramount significance that we remind our people of the roots and the journey that was once taken by those who went before us,” he said.