LIMPOPO – The South African music industry has been left reeling after a devastating head-on collision along the N1 Ysterberg claimed the life of popular DJ Poizen and left fellow DJ Chymamusique in critical condition.

The two had performed in Mokopane on Friday night before the crash in the early hours of Saturday morning. Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety confirmed that five lives were lost in the accident, with two others injured and rushed to hospital.

Read more: 5 Killed in N1 head-on collision

Tributes have since flooded social media as artists, fans, and industry peers express shock and heartbreak.

Lamiez Holworthy wrote:

To say my heart is broken would be an understatement… Pelo yaka e bohloko (My heart is sore) and I am at a loss for words. Please keep Poizen’s loved ones in your prayers and pray that Chyma pulls through.

Groove Cartel SA shared:

It is with heart trenching sadness to learn of the untimely passing of a great pioneer of South African Dance Music… There is a South African “sound” that one can easily recognise. This sound took years to mould particularly in the dance scene. When we once yearned to belong and chased global trends, it was Poizen and the likes who carved an authentic South African dance music groove…. Today we celebrate an icon who undoubtedly pioneered a new wave to Deep House Music.

Dwson added:

Rest easy icon. Your humility, selflessness, and consistency left a mark on us all. Your spirit and basslines will live forever.

As Chymamusique continues to fight for his life, the country is holding onto hope while remembering Poizen for his contribution to the music scene.