Dynamic duo Hope “King Maestro Ramafalo” Puseletso and Lehlogonolo “Hlogi Mash” Mashigo are the embodiment of what true expression is in dance and music as they continue to be trendsetters in the world of entertainment.
The pair, who hail from Pretoria and have garnered thousands of followers through their passion, started their journey during Covid and have since been on an upward trajectory marked by numerous noteworthy turning points.
“Our professional path essentially started on social media back in 2020 amid the Covid pandemic lockdown. The most memorable has to be the very first time we went viral. Hitting a million views for the first time is a feeling we will never forget,” said the duo.
With their most recent song, Ke Yona, the ever-vigorous performers gave their fans a taste of what they have to offer and the promise of more uplifting songs in the future.
They duo say their inspiration comes from American music artist Chris Brown, who is also hailed as a great dancer, and further attribute their success to their manager.
“Our fans can expect another dance song, but more importantly, a gospel chant that will not only entertain them but will also inspire them.
“What inspires us is our ambition. We both love Chris Brown, not only as a dancer but as a musician, too. We have our team and ourselves to credit for our success. More importantly, our manager, Mathabo Mbele ... she really deserves her flowers.”
More intriguingly, they divulge that Puseletso is thrilled to bring her wealth of expertise and dedication to the stage for her Engen Knockout Challenge debut solo performance, .
“Performing solo for the first time at the Engen Knockout Challenge brings me pride, yet it’s nerve-wracking. I’ve been so comfortable with having my partner as my safety net with all our performances.. so now that I have to rock solo ... I’m super excited, and supporters can expect to see my alter ego, King Maestro. I’m bringing all my experience and passion onstage, and I’m going to set it on fire,” says Puseletso.
They have not only distinguished themselves as lively dancers and musicians, but they have also collaborated with brands like Converse, thanks to their passion for fashion and their audacious self-expression in some eye-catching ensembles.
Speaking about the brand, they say: “Not only does Converse support our vision, but they also impact our style in a positive way; furthermore, they give us the edge to be trendsetters. We not only introduce the latest designs, but our fans name the shoes after us. Working with the brand has easily been the most rewarding collaboration we have ever had, and for that we will always be family.’’
To further highlight the brand's synergy with talented people such as Puseletso and Mashigo, the brand is presenting the many artistic, fashion, musical, dancing and sporting abilities of the Mzansi people in its new Run Star Trainer.
In reference to their passion for style, they state: “Hlogi is the real style guru. Again, Chris Brown also influences our freedom. But more often than not, we go with what’s appealing to us and what’s trending on the runway and fast fashion trends.”
Saturday Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za