A Name With a Story: The Birth of “GLCJay”
Rising South African vocalist and songwriter GL Ceejay chat with us to unpack the journey behind one of the fastest-rising names in the 3-Step and Amapiano landscape.
He explains that “GL” comes from his real name, Gobokweone Lekganyane, while “CJ” was a nickname given to him by a schoolteacher who struggled to pronounce his name. The blend stuck—today, it’s the name attached to some of the genre’s most emotional and energetic hits.
From 2016 Dreams to a 2025 Breakthrough
GL Ceejay’s music journey started in 2016, inspired by the vibrant Piano wave of the time. But what began as experimentation quickly became passion.
“I just love singing… I just love music,” he reflects.
Fast-forward nearly a decade later, and 2025 has marked his biggest commercial ascent yet, cemented by collaborations with Jazzworx (JAZZWRLD) and Thukuthela—a partnership that unlocked the compelling 3-Step sound that fans can’t get enough of.
Discovering 3-Step: A Sound and a Destiny
His introduction to 3-Step came unexpectedly. Through Neo and Sandile, GL Ceejay connected with Jazzworx and Thukuthela and was encouraged to “jump on a song.” That song would become “Uzizwa Kanjani,” the track that sent his career into overdrive.
“From there it was skyrockets,” he says with a laugh.
“And I fell in love with the genre.”
The Hits That Move the People
When asked about his favourite tracks to perform, GL Ceejay can’t choose just one:
- Uzizwa Kanjani – his all-time favourite
- Bengicela – the emotional powerhouse
- Umoya – his current top performance pick
These songs have not only become fan favourites but have created profound emotional moments at gigs.
“I’ve seen people cry to Bengicela,” TheJournalistDJ notes.
For GL Ceejay, the song’s power comes from its prayer-like origin:
“Many of us are trying to pray… trying to get ahead. Bengicela is asking, ‘Lord, can you please listen to me?’ Whatever you believe in—just pray.”
More Music, More Visuals, More Everything
With back-to-back hits and an ever-growing fan base, what’s next for the rising star?
“People should expect something from me… more music, more visuals, more gigs, more touring,” he teases.
“And more content. My people told me they want more—I love you guys.”
Looking Ahead: A Bigger 2026
As a phenomenal 2025 winds down, GL Ceejay is hopeful and driven.
“I’m hoping 2026 brings us ten times more—if not a hundred times more—than what 2025 brought,” he shares.
But beyond ambition, he remains grounded in gratitude.
“I’d like to thank each and every one for supporting us. The love you’ve shown GLCJ is amazing. You guys are everything to me. I’ll continue making good music. Continue supporting me. I love you.”
A Star With Heart, Faith, and Fire
From humble beginnings to chart-topping collaborations, GL Ceejay represents the new wave of South African talent—artists who blend soul, spirituality, and sonic innovation. His journey continues upward, powered by prayer, passion, and the people who believe in him.
More hits are coming. More visuals are coming. And if 2025 was his breakout, 2026 may be the year GL Ceejay becomes unstoppable.
