Imagine two tall guys, Chuma and Lutho, meeting up during their university days in Cape Town. They didn’t bond over textbooks, but rather their shared height, love for deep grooves, and a bit of mischief. Fast forward a few years, and they’ve transformed into Mushroom Clouds, an Afro-infused Amapiano DJ duo making waves in the local music scene.
Their Sound, Their Roots
Chuma has always had a soft spot for deep house vibes, while Lutho is all about that old-school R&B and hip-hop. Together, they craft their sets with warm chords, soulful vocals, and an energy that gets everyone dancing. They mix everything from classic Afrotech to the latest Amapiano hits, sometimes even surprising the crowd with unreleased tracks. Their unique blend of genres comes from a shared passion for deep house, hip hop, soul, and R&B, which is what sets Mushroom Clouds apart. They’ve garnered a loyal fanbase, recently highlighted in an OkayAfrica feature that praised their ability to fuse Amapiano with 3-step rhythms, creating a joyful atmosphere on the dance floor.
Inside the Podcast at Elevate Members Club
When we chatted with Chuma and Lutho for the podcast at Elevate* Members Club, the energy was infectious. We unpacked their journey from varsity friendship to club residency at Liv on Bree, unpacking certain styles of music, their hilarious tall-guy match-up origin, and how they formed The Playlist Club. Chuma told us he’d sit at home mixing deep house vibes until dawn, while Lutho reminisced about late-night R&B playlists that shaped his taste. We also tackled the never-ending fan complaint: crowd members wanting to request tunes mid-set. Their answer? “If it’s not on the USB, sorry, the set stays intact.”
Big Moments on Stage
They’ve taken their sound to events like Rocking the Daisies and Community, turning stages into unforgettable celebrations. Their infectious energy pulls in crowds; they don’t just play music; they elevate the entire experience. In Cape Town, their residency at Liv on Bree has become a must-see on local club calendars: you can always count on Mushroom Clouds to deliver an unforgettable night.
The Duo: More Than DJs
What struck us most is their friendship, two gents who complement each other musically and share a dry, playful humor. Chuma’s deep-house seriousness meets Lutho’s nostalgic soul devotion, and together they’re constantly pushing each other to dig deeper in selections, testing out tracks from new beatmakers alongside classic grooves. They’re humble, excited, and still hungry.
What’s Next for Mushroom Clouds? Here’s what’s coming down the pipeline:
- A new EP, expect fresh original tracks that nod to their love of dance music, but with the highlight of modern Amapiano. Fingers crossed for a release before the year’s out.
- A packed calendar: they’ve told me galore gigs are lined up, festivals, club dates across South Africa, and possibly even regional tours.
- Expanding The Playlist Club concept hosts curated house-party-style sessions, popping up in hidden venues across Cape Town, and building community through music.
Why They Matter
Mushroom Clouds represent the new wave of South African DJs who honor the roots of Amapiano while pushing the local sound into hybrid territory. They feel honest, grounded, and deeply connected to Cape Town’s music lovers. And they do it with heart. If you’re in Cape Town, catch them at Liv on Bree or upcoming events. Whether you’re there for hard grooves or soulful vocals spun through fresh Amapiano lenses, trust us, you’re in for a vibe.
Born and raised in the charming town of Empangeni, KwaZulu Natal, Sabelo Khanyile has carved out a unique niche in the creative world. Now based in Cape Town, Sabelo is a multifaceted artist known for his dynamic work as a DJ and photographer. His creative journey has led him to collaborate with notable figures such as Micael Matthews and showcase his work at prestigious events like SA Men's Fashion Week. His striking photography has also graced the pages of Vogue Italia, marking him as a significant force in the global art scene. In addition to his work as a DJ and photographer, Sabelo serves as the Creative Director of Adult Content Dreams, an innovative online platform dedicated to celebrating art, fashion, and music. Despite the provocative name, the platform is far from a site for adult content. Instead, it offers a vibrant space for the youth in South Africa to explore and engage with contemporary art and fashion, providing a creative outlet that fosters expression and connection through various artistic mediums. Sabelo’s diverse talents and creative vision continue to influence and inspire, making him a prominent figure in South Africa’s evolving cultural landscape.
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