A soulful reunion at Bread4Soul
At Johannesburg’s Bread4Soul event, TheJournalistDJ.com caught up with South African deep house maestro China Charmeleon, born Siphamandla Innocent Nene. This marked a long-overdue interview after technical setbacks at their last attempt in Mpumalanga. Now based in Joburg, the producer was calm and focused ahead of his set, exemplifying his dedication by arriving early to feel out the vibe.
From Carolina to Stay True Sounds
China reflected on his journey—from his roots in Carolina, Mpumalanga, to his life-changing move to Johannesburg in 2018. There, his raw talent caught the attention of Kid Fonque, who signed him to the influential Stay True Sounds label.
‘Colours’ that changed everything
China’s breakthrough came with the release of Colours in 2020, a debut album that earned him over a million streams and catapulted him into international recognition.
“That album changed my life,”
he shares, remembering how the track “Colors” played in his ears during a jog and later led to two international bookings.
The ‘glitch’ that sparked a genre
Known for his sonic innovation, China credited frequent collaborator Andile Andy for designing the unique “glitch” sound that’s become synonymous with his productions. “People have the log drum in piano,” he said, “but we designed our own thing, something new for house.” This fresh take on deep house has set him apart and earned him the moniker “the remix guy.”
Too many remixes to count
China has become a go-to name for remixes, releasing a full-length 13-track remix album under Stay True Sounds. Highlights include “Friday” and “Bossa Nova” by Beat By Handz, though he admits it’s hard to pick favorites. “There’s just too many,” he laughs.
A spiritual and jazzy undertone
His work frequently draws from gospel and jazz influences.
“It’s who I am,”
he explains.
“I grew up loving gospel music. It blends naturally with my deep house sensibilities.”
When asked if his family understands his house music path, he chuckles: “They do now. I’m just grateful for their support.”
Collaborating with legends
Recently, China worked with legendary UK producer Charles Webster, a dream come true. “It was hard to believe at first. Charles is a legend. But being in studio with him was an honor,” he shared. Their collaboration signals China’s ever-expanding global footprint.
New music on the way
Never one to rest, China is currently wrapping up a new album and preparing to release a love song collaboration with Brandon Dludlu. “The ladies will love it,” he promises, hinting that fans can expect a blend of deep house, piano, gospel, and jazz. “It’s 90% done,” he confirms.
Pushing South African soundscapes forward
Now with five albums to his name—including Colours, My Father’s Record, The Third, Brothers, and Ubuntu—China Charmeleon stands as a torchbearer for South African deep house. “The sound is evolving, and I’m proud to be part of that movement,” he says.
A name to remember
With performances at global festivals like Defected in Malta and Ibiza, and with continued recognition from legends like Vinny Da Vinci and DJ Christos, China Charmeleon is not just remixing songs—he’s remixing the entire narrative of African house music.
