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Inside a dance studio in east Johannesburg, choreographer Janecke guided a squad of young cheer performers through choreographed moves. Following hours of practice of everything from fluid movements to vogue dance with pom-poms, the excited group surrounded Janecke to record a social media video of one of the trending South African amapiano trends. They finished in only two attempts.

Growing International Influence

He has stood at the forefront of the increasing global popularity of SA dance and music over the past few years. Collaborating with artist Tyla since she was a teenager, he choreographed the internet sensation that accompanied breakout track “the song Water,” which launched the now 23-year-old SA performer to worldwide fame.

“When I speak about my path I feel moved to understand the point it’s arrived at, and that this achievement is a fresh beginning,” he shared.

Formative Beginnings

His childhood was spent in Bonteheuwel and later another township, both traditionally referred to as “mixed-race” areas. Influenced by his grandfather playing pop icons, he performed at celebrations. He initially aimed to study finance after school, but could not ignore the attraction of dance, in which he has is self-taught.

Career Evolution

In the early 2010s, he began embracing gender expression in dance and accepted himself as gay. He was instrumental in launching V.I.N.T.A.G.E, South Africa’s first all-male dance team focused on vogueing and whacking, styles that were born in New York’s ball culture in the late 1980s and 1990s.

His team, which evolved to include women and a fashion stylist, participated in numerous on-air showcases. But, it came second in nearly every one it entered, something Janecke attributed to South Africa not yet being prepared for LGBTQ+ artists.

During one incident, the group was attacked at a taxi stand as they travelled back from performing at a pride event. A mob converged on their transport, screaming and moving the van from side to side, until the operator finally convinced them to disperse. “It felt like:‘Well, this is the end for you,’” said Janecke.

Major Opportunities

By 2015, V.I.N.T.A.G.E had disbanded, as Janecke started getting booked solo, choreographing the TV program a broadcast series for multiple seasons. He was contracted by Tyla’s initial team to coach her. “I sensed: ‘There is potential about this girl.’ It’s visible in her eyes,” he said.

Recently, the rehearsal was just not long after the a major awards show. The artist took home Best Afrobeats for her song. The visual was choreographed by him, who was also nominated for top choreographer.

It marked the highest point of several two years of working with Tyla globally on everything from a TV finale to the BET Awards and a major event. Janecke also designed overseas events for a popular DJ and led amapiano classes at a New York institution, the space of the a renowned company in New York, and at Playground in LA.

Next Goals

“Personally, the close of that period is the awards recognition,” Janecke said. He was on set when he learned he had been nominated: “I instantly became emotional. The feeling was intense, I feel I continue to feel moved, because … I stayed awake, 3am, to view the VMAs live. I was certain that here is where my path leads.”

Janecke gesticulated as he spoke, standing to show steps. “I must take the proper measures to continue sharing and building my work known, independent of the figures attached to it.”

He shared his ambitions – finding a American representative, partnering with artists like international acts to Beyoncé and Madonna, and making inroads in the K-pop market, commercials and theater. He cited a peer an industry name as representing the standard he believes he is capable of achieving.

Staying True

Even so, Janecke was clear he would keep working with Tyla: “We have a bond for life … She is deeply passionate about making songs and genuinely changing the dynamic of the world.”

Even as Janecke expressed concern that his home country did not have the professional and efficient working environment of the US, he said he was South African at heart. “My African dream created a movement performed by the whole world … so, for me, what I pursue is a vision born on this continent.”