Mellow & Sleazy are a South African Amapiano producer duo who have become one of the most influential acts in the genre since forming in 2020. Composed of Phemelo “Mellow” Sefanyetse and Olebogeng “Sleazy” Kwanaite, the duo has risen from township beginnings to international stardom, producing platinum-certified hits and collaborating with some of the biggest names in South African music.
Personal Information
Duo name: Mellow & Sleazy
Members: Phemelo Sefanyetse (Mellow), Olebogeng Kwanaite (Sleazy)
Origin: Soshanguve and Ga-Rankuwa, Tshwane, South Africa
Years active: 2020 to present
Genres: Amapiano, Bacardi house, Afrobeats
Labels: Independent
Early Life and Meeting
Phemelo “Mellow” Sefanyetse and Olebogeng “Sleazy” Kwanaite grew up in the townships of Tshwane, with Mellow hailing from Soshanguve and Sleazy from Ga-Rankuwa. Both artists were raised in rough neighborhoods rife with crime, drugs, and violence, which motivated them to pursue music as a positive outlet for their creativity.
The duo met in 2020 during their first year at university. Sleazy had always been passionate about music production, initially focusing on trap and hip-hop beats before transitioning to Amapiano. Their shared love for trap production sparked their collaboration, leading them to establish a production group from a friend’s makeshift studio. It was in this studio that they honed their production skills and mastered their craft of blending Bacardi house elements with Amapiano.
Musical Style and Influences
Mellow & Sleazy’s sound is deeply rooted in Bacardi house, a genre that originated in the Tshwane townships of Pretoria. Growing up, both artists were surrounded by Bacardi music playing from shebeens and neighbours, which played a significant role in influencing their signature sound.
They describe their music as a fusion of “piano and Bacardi,” creating a sound that speaks to the people back home while incorporating global influences. The duo’s music is characterized by jangly, tinny sonics wrapped in Amapiano’s Kwaito-and-jazz-infused reverberations. They are known for experimenting with different sounds, including influences from Angola and Benin.
Career Breakthrough
Mellow & Sleazy burst onto the mainstream scene in late 2021 with the platinum-selling single “Bopha” featuring Felo Le Tee, DJ Maphorisa, and Young Stunna. The single gained massive attention by capturing the desire for liberty among South Africans during the strict lockdown days of the COVID-19 pandemic. It became an anthem for people seeking freedom and connection during difficult times.
In 2022, “Chipi ke Chipi” with Justin99 was released on April 15 and debuted at number 9 on the Local Streaming Chart Top 10. This track became one of their biggest hits and helped solidify their position in the Amapiano scene.
“Wenza Kanjani” featuring 2woshort, TNK MusiQ, and BoontleRSA was released on June 30, 2022, and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA). This achievement marked their arrival as major players in the industry.
Major Hits and Chart Success
Their single “Imnandi lento” with SjavasDaDeejay and TitoM featuring Tman Xpresso was released on August 18, 2023, and debuted at number 2 on the Local Streaming Chart Top 10. The track received two nominations for Best Collaboration and Best Amapiano at the 18th Metro FM Music Awards, with the duo also being nominated for Best Duo/Group.
Other notable tracks include “Nkao Tempela” with Ch’cco in summer 2022, “Salary Salary” with Robot Boii, and “Abo Mvelo” with Daliwonga, which introduced many new fans in the United States to Amapiano for the first time. Their viral song “Bheba Bheba” continued to dominate scenes and screens, showcasing their ability to create music that resonates across borders.
Album Releases
Mellow & Sleazy have released numerous successful albums and collaborative projects:
Studio albums: Kwa Kwa (2021), Midnight In Sunnyside (2022), Barcadi Fest (2022), Midnight In Sunnyside 2 (2023), Boroko Keng (2023), Midnight In Sunnyside 3 (2024)
Collaborative albums: The III Wise Men (with Felo Le Tee) (2023), Fantastic 4 (with Amu Classic & Kappie) (2025), Midnight in Diepkloof (with Tman Xpress) (2025), Midnight in Diepkloof Zone2 (with Tman Xpress) (2026)
The Midnight in Sunnyside series is emblematic of the neighbourhood where many African nationals live shoulder to shoulder in Amapiano’s epicentre of Pretoria. The first project was more beat-focused with minimal vocals, while the second incorporated more genres and melodies.
ALSO CHECK: Evidence Makgopa Biography: South Africa’s Goal-Scoring Hope for 2026 FIFA World Cup
International Recognition and Touring
Mellow & Sleazy have performed internationally, including a memorable set at Primavera Sound festival. They have also toured in Europe and the United Kingdom, with Sleazy expressing particular fondness for Spain. Their international performances have introduced their proudly South African Bacardi-driven sound to new audiences worldwide.
Personal Lives and Dynamic
Olebogeng “Sleazy” Kwanaite is the more gregarious of the two, known for his energetic personality and social nature. He is described as an extrovert who enjoys being around his crew and friends, and he loves being in the studio.
Phemelo “Mellow” Sefanyetse lives up to his name with a laid-back, chilled attitude. He is more introverted and prefers to keep to himself, often staying indoors when visiting family in Pretoria.
Despite their different personalities, the duo maintains a strong creative and personal balance, both behind the decks and in the studio. They play with an ease that comes from a shared understanding of each other’s strengths and of how their music can captivate crowds.
Away from the spotlight, both artists are homebodies who enjoy making music and evolving their sound. They often go live on social media while in the studio because they value their fans’ input on their music.
Impact and Future Plans
Mellow & Sleazy have become known as “the duo that never disappoints”. They have expressed a desire to collaborate with Nigerian stars, recognizing that Afrobeats represents the future sound of music. The duo sees themselves growing bigger than their current status and aims to continue expanding their reach globally.
Their music has been credited with pushing against all odds, showing that boys from township backgrounds can achieve superstardom. They have become role models for young South Africans, proving that music can provide an alternative path away from crime and violence.