In a rehearsal space in east Johannesburg, dance instructor Lee-ché guided a squad of student cheerleaders through their steps. Following an extensive session of everything from undulating motions to vogue dance with pom-poms, the enthusiastic group gathered round Janecke to create a TikTok of one of the newest local dance viral moves. They finished in just two takes.
Expanding Global Impact
Janecke has been at the vanguard of the increasing global popularity of African music and dance over the last several years. Partnering with performer the musician since she was 17, he created the internet sensation that went with smash single “Water,” which propelled the young South African singer to international recognition.
“Reflecting about my life it touches me deeply to understand how far it’s reached, and that this achievement seems like a new start,” he shared.
Initial Roots
He was raised in Bonteheuwel and later a Johannesburg area, both traditionally classified as “designated” areas. Inspired by his grandfather playing music legends, he performed at family events. He initially intended to study business after school, but succumbed to the pull of movement, in which he has learned informally.
Professional Journey
By 2011, he delved into femininity in dance and accepted himself as LGBTQ+. He was instrumental in launching V.I.N.T.A.G.E, the country’s first all-male dance team focused on ballroom-inspired styles, dance forms that emerged in New York’s ballroom scene in the past decades.
His team, which expanded to include women and a fashion stylist, participated in numerous on-air showcases. However, it finished second in all but the last competition, something Janecke blamed on the country not yet being open for openly LGBTQ+ dancers.
During one incident, the group was targeted at a public transport stop as they travelled back from dancing at an LGBTQ+ celebration. A group converged on their vehicle, yelling and rocking the vehicle from back and forth, until the driver finally persuaded them to break up. “It was:‘Okay, we’re done for you,’” shared Janecke.
Major Moments
Eventually, V.I.N.T.A.G.E had disbanded, as Janecke was hired solo, choreographing the talent show a popular show for multiple seasons. He was brought on by the artist’s early representatives to work with her. “I sensed: ‘There’s something about this girl.’ I noticed it in her eyes,” he said.
In the present day, the rehearsal was just shortly after the VMAs. The singer received an award for a track. The visual was staged by him, who was also shortlisted for best choreography.
It marked the pinnacle of several two years of working with Tyla internationally on projects including a singing competition to the BET Awards and Coachella. Janecke also choreographed international performances for a popular DJ and taught movement sessions at a dance studio, the space of the a renowned company in the city, and at an LA-based space.
Upcoming Plans
“For me, the close of that period is the industry acknowledgment,” Janecke said. He was working when he learned he had been nominated: “I instantly started crying. I was so emotional, I believe I continue to feel moved, because … I stayed awake, early morning, to see the ceremony as it happened. I was certain that here is where my destiny lies.”
Janecke gesticulated as he spoke, standing to perform dance moves. “I have to take the right steps to persist in expressing and building my work recognized, separate from the figures linked to it.”
He listed his dreams – getting a US agent, working with names such as Dua Lipa and Doechii to Beyoncé and Madonna, and breaking into the Korean pop industry, brand campaigns and stage productions. He cited another artist a talented creator as being at the level he knows he is positioned for reaching.
Remaining Loyal
Even so, Janecke was assertive he would keep working with Tyla: “We have a bond forever … She remains committed about her art and really transforming the conversation globally.”
Although Janecke expressed concern that the local industry was missing the structured and smooth professional conditions of the United States, he affirmed he was true to his origins fundamentally. “The dream I hold achieved a routine done by the entire globe … thus, to my mind, Lee-ché’s dream is a vision born on this continent.”
