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Inside a dance studio in Johannesburg’s eastern suburbs, movement director Lee-ché led a team of young cheer performers through their steps. After an extensive session of including body rolls to voguing with pompoms, the enthusiastic group surrounded Janecke to record a TikTok of one of the latest local dance trends. They were done in just two takes.

Rising Global Presence

Lee-ché has remained at the leading edge of the growing international popularity of African music and dance over the last several years. Having worked with singer the star since she was seventeen, he choreographed the internet sensation that was part of smash single “Water,” which propelled the now 23-year-old African performer to worldwide fame.

“Talking about my journey it touches me deeply to realize the point it’s come to, and that where it’s come to feels like a fresh beginning,” he shared.

Initial Roots

He was raised in Bonteheuwel and later another township, both formerly known as “Coloured” areas. He heard his elder playing music legends, he performed at gatherings. He initially intended to study accounting after school, but could not ignore the attraction of movement, in which he has learned informally.

Career Path

Over a decade ago, he delved into identity in dance and accepted himself as LGBTQ+. He co-founded a performance group, the country’s first group of male dancers focused on ballroom-inspired styles, dance forms that originated in NYC’s ball culture in the past decades.

The group, which grew to include all genders and a style consultant, competed in numerous broadcast contests. Yet, it placed as runner-up in almost all one it entered, something Janecke linked to local audiences not yet being open for queer performers.

Years ago, the group was targeted at a minibus taxi rank as they travelled back from performing at an LGBTQ+ celebration. A group surrounded their transport, screaming and rocking the taxi from one side to the other, until the driver finally urged them to break up. “It felt like:‘Yeah girl, we’re done for you,’” said Janecke.

Major Moments

Eventually, V.I.N.T.A.G.E had disbanded, as Janecke started getting booked solo, directing the competition a broadcast series for multiple seasons. He was contracted by the artist’s initial team to work with her. “I sensed: ‘There is potential about this artist.’ I can see it in the expression,” he recalled.

Recently, the cheerleading practice was just a few days after the a major awards show. Tyla took home a trophy for her song. The visual was designed by him, who was also recognized for best choreography.

This was the highest point of more than two years of partnering with Tyla globally on projects including a TV finale to the BET Awards and a music festival. Janecke also choreographed US and UK shows for DJ Uncle Waffles and led amapiano classes at Ailey Extension, the space of the a prestigious group in the city, and at a Los Angeles venue.

Next Goals

“For me, the end of that chapter is the VMA nomination,” Janecke said. He was filming when he discovered he had been nominated: “I at once burst into tears. It overwhelmed me, I believe I continue to feel moved, because … I stayed awake, 3am, to view the ceremony as it happened. I felt convinced that this is where my destiny lies.”

He gestured as he spoke, standing to show routines. “I must take the right steps to persist in sharing and establishing my name recognized, separate from the figures attached to it.”

He outlined his goals – finding a American representative, working with names such as Dua Lipa and Doechii to Beyoncé and Madonna, and entering the K-pop market, commercials and theater. He cited another artist Robbie Blue as achieving the level he believes he is capable of achieving.

Remaining Loyal

However, Janecke was assertive he would maintain his partnership with Tyla: “She is like family for life … She’s very committed about making songs and genuinely transforming the landscape of the world.”

Even as Janecke voiced disappointment that the local industry lacked the professional and seamless professional conditions of the US, he stated he was African to his core. “The dream I hold achieved a movement embraced by the international community … so, in my view, my aspiration is a vision born on this continent.”