Tshwanelo Motlhako (born 14 July 1990), known by his stage name Njelic, is a South African musician, DJ, and producer best known for releasing the smash hit Shesha Geza.
His soulful voice is heard in other hit songs, such as Nana Thula, Liyoshona, Wamuhle, Down The Drain, and Shesha. He is one of the first generation of amapiano DJs and producers, while also doubling as a vocalist.
| Njelic | |
|---|---|
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| Quick Facts | |
| Name: | Tshwanelo Motlhako |
| Born: | 14 July 1990 (age 36 years old) |
| Place of birth: | Mzimhlophe, Orlando West, Soweto |
| Nationality: | South African |
| Occupation: | Musician, DJ, producer |
| Years active: | 2001-date |
| Genre: | Amapiano |
| Partner: | Nokuthula Manonga |
| Children: | Oarabile |
Early Life
Njelic was born Tshwanelo Motlhako on 14 July 1990 in Mzimhlophe, Orlando West, Soweto. He started singing in primary school as a way of avoiding sports. He later took singing passionately in high school. He sang tenor for the music band Band of Hope.
Career
Njelic started DJing in 2001 in his mother’s shebeen and was a resident at Backroom, now Icon, in Soweto.
He has collaborated with seasoned artists such as De Mthuda and Kabza De Small. He has also worked with labels, including House Afrika Records, run by the legendary Vinny Da Vinci.
At the beginning of his career, he chose the stage name Nje Nje. He decided to change after discovering someone else in Soweto was using the same moniker, since he wanted to be unique and stand out.
He released “Shesha Geza,” in collaboration with De Mthuda, in 2019, and “Wamuhle,” alongside sultry songstress Boohle, in 2021. He also collaborated with Kabza De Small to release the single “Nana Thula”.
The Shesha hitmaker released his 2020 debut album, Garage FM, a collection of Afropop-leaning tracks featuring a diverse cast of guests. He worked on the song Down The Drain (Mixed) alongside Thabza Tee.
Amapiano star Njelic was featured alongside Simmy and Mhaw Keys on Kabza De Small’s song Eningi in 2022. He worked on the song Umsholozi, alongside DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small in 2019, and Chomi, alongside Mthuda and Samthing Soweto, in 2020.
Aside from being a successful musician, Njelic also gives back to society. He spent his Valentine’s Day at Itsoseng Old Age Home in 2022, bringing with him snacks and gifts.
He also partnered with the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) in launching the Spring edition of their road safety campaign, Phepha #BeAware #SeeTomorrow, in 2022.
Personal Life
Njelic is currently dating Nokuthula Manonga. The couple has, however, been caught up in many public disagreements and incidents of domestic issues. His girlfriend kicked him out of her apartment in 2024.
Njelic has a daughter, Oarabile, and other children. He lost his mother in 2021 and his father, who was run over by a car while walking, in 2022.
References
- Gloria Masia. “Pics! Njelic Shares How He Spent His Valentine’s Day“. The Yanos.
- Masego Seemela. “Music helped Njelic stay off the streets growing up in Soweto“. Sowetan.
- Mbalenhle Zuma. “Every second day, I am kicking Njelic out of my house – Manonga“. Sunday World.
- Phuti Mathobela. “Njelic pours his heart out to daughter“. Drum.
- Qhama Dayile. “‘Grief has made me appreciate what I have’ – DJ Njelic on losing his dad through a road accident“. Drum.
