- DFWNE mixes Neo-Soul, Afro-alternative and Tsonga influences, describing his sound as “like mixed berry juice”, with songs meant to heal hearts.
- He plans to release a new EP in 2026, while also preparing for a 27 September show at Kyalami business park.
Tokologo Ratlou’s journey into music started at home. He remembers watching his father experiment with his voice while carrying his children. That small moment planted a seed which has now grown into a rising career.
Performing under the name DFWNE, Ratlou blends Neo-Soul, Afro-alternative and touches of Tsonga to create what he calls a sound “like mixed berry juice”. He said his music is about more than just beats, it is about healing hearts and opening ears.
He has already performed on stages such as Capital Craft, which gave him confidence to connect with live audiences. But his sights are set on the world stage.
“I want to be a seasoned artist who deserves everything he works for. Winning a Grammy would be that moment,” he said.
The road has been tough, especially when it comes to capturing the exact sound he hears in his head. But he says his love for fans drives him on.
“The music is the love I have for them. I record, I perform, and all they have to do is take in the vibrations being sold,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ratlou is working on a new Neo-Soul EP, set to drop in 2026, alongside producer NALMie on “Digital Ether 2”.
He will also headline his own show at Kyalami business park on 27 September, which he hopes will become an annual event.
Alongside his solo projects, Ratlou created the Sounds in Cotton event in 2022. This year marked its second edition in Kyalami, with organisers hoping to make it a regular fixture in South Africa’s entertainment calendar.
Pictured above: DFWNE.
Image source: Supplied
