DJ Cleo, whose real name is Tlou Cleopas Monyepao, ranks among South Africa’s top producers, DJs, and musicians, renowned for pioneering Kwaito, House, and Hip-hop sounds. He launched Will Of Steel Productions and has built a lasting legacy with albums dating back to 2004.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Tlou Cleopas Monyepao |
| Date of birth | 24 December 1979 |
| Place of birth | Vosloorus, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng |
| Partner | N/A |
| Children | Has children (number and names not specified) |
| Occupations | DJ, record producer, musician, entrepreneur |
| Net worth | Approximately $1 million |
Early Life and Education
Tlou Cleopas Monyepao arrived on 24 December 1979 in Vosloorus, Gauteng. After attending Springs Boys High School, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from Wits University in 2023 while training in sound engineering. His father, Samuel Monyepao, passed from diabetes in 2015.
Career
DJ Cleo kicked off his journey producing for YFM’s Unrestricted Breakfast Show with DJ Fresh, dropping his first track “Will of Steel” in 2002 on the Gatecrasher compilation. In 2002, he founded Will Of Steel Productions (Pty) Ltd, collaborating with major artists like Brickz, Pitch Black Afro, Mandoza, Skwatta Kamp, Mzekezeke, and Kabelo of TKZee, which fueled international gigs and remixes.
He contributed to the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi soundtrack and remixed Bucy Rhadebe’s “Uzugcin’ Impilo Yam,” originally from 2020. DJ Cleo scored music for e.tv’s Rhythm City soapie, co-hosted SABC 1’s Vaya Mzansi Season 1 in 2013, competed on Lip Sync Battle Africa Season 2, and performed live on Idols South Africa Season 17.
His radio roots evolved into solo production, with Ashifa Shabba helping him join YFM, where he honed skills alongside industry leaders. The label’s success amplified his role in Kwaito and House scenes, blending eight albums with TV and global performances.
Personal Life
DJ Cleo guards his family details closely but describes himself as a firm father to children from multiple relationships, emphasizing his maturing perspective. His sister, Lerato Monyepao, remains part of his close circle, and he has shared struggles with depression and social anxiety.
Net Worth
DJ Cleo’s fortune hovers near $1 million, built from album releases, gigs, and his thriving record label.
Discography
DJ Cleo’s key releases include:
- Es’khaleni (2004)
- Es’khaleni Zone 3 (2006)
- Es’khaleni Phase 4 (2007)
- Es’khaleni 6 (2009)
- Cassanova Vol. 1 (2011)
- Es’khaleni Ext. 2 (2013)
- Disclosure (2014)
- Eskhaleni 11 (2019)
- Yile Piano, Vol. 1 (2021)
Standout singles: “Facebook,” “Yile Gqom,” “Hands Up,” “Bhampa Side to Side.”
Filmography
DJ Cleo supplied tracks for e.tv’s Rhythm City and the Tsotsi soundtrack. Additional credits: co-host of Vaya Mzansi Season 1 (SABC 1, 2013), contestant on Lip Sync Battle Africa Season 2, performer on Idols South Africa Season 17.
Awards and Recognitions
DJ Cleo claimed Urban Dance for Es’khaleni Phase 4 at the 14th SAMAs (2008) and tripled up with Best-Selling awards for “Facebook” at the 18th SAMAs (2012), including Best-Selling True-Tone Download, Ring-Tone, and MTN Mobile Music Download. He also took Best Male Artist (2008), Best Club DJ at 2006 Metro FM Awards, and Best DJ at 2021 Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards.
