By Lerato Mutlanyane

On the decks, Karabelo ‘Trent DjY’ Makoane (21) locks in the beat matching, blending tracks into one seamless groove. Beside him, Don Kabila (22) commands the drop, flipping the switch and sending the dance floor into overdrive. Together, they are the electrifying duo known as Trent DjY and Don Kabila. Born and bred in Thaba Nchu, just outside Bloemfontein, the pair’s love for music started early. They attended the same primary school, went their separate ways in high school, and reunited at university — a reunion that would spark a powerful musical partnership. Now four years strong, the duo has built a growing fan base and a reputation for setting stages alight. But the road wasn’t always smooth. “In our first year and early 2022, we struggled to secure gigs and faced a lot of rejection,” they said. “That didn’t stop us. We started releasing mixtapes, built our fan base, and gained traction.” Their persistence paid off. Under Ragersclub management, they began hosting major events, making their big-stage debut in 2023 at the annual We Back Home Festival at Dr Petrus Molemela (Mangaung) Stadium. Since then, they’ve performed at Mangaung Open Festival, Bloem Show, SA’s Most Wanted, Singles Braai, and most recently, the Fill Up Toyota Stadium event hosted by hip hop star Cassper Nyovest. Inspired by Bloemfontein’s own DJ Mbulelo ‘LeGoody’ Khathaza, the duo has their sights set high. “In five years, we see ourselves as one of the biggest Amapiano duos in the country, with our music charting nationwide,” they said. They are set to host their second annual two man show on 4 April and will soon release their debut single. Catch this fiery duo lighting up Sthiba Gardens and Sandy’s Bar in Bloemfontein this weekend. Picture this: bass heavy, crowd loud, and the drops hitting just right.