Tshepo Modise (born 23 March 1983), known by his stage name Cruz Afrika, is a South African musical artist, songwriter, choreographer, and music entrepreneur. He rose to fame as a young dancer for stars like Zola7, Stoan of Bongo Maffin, and Jub-Jub.
Cruz has released hit songs like “Shaka Zulu”, “Pray For Me”, “Bana Ba”, “China Man”, “Tau”, “Feeling Good”, and “Mother’s Prayer”. He starred on the Moja Love channel in a reality television series Love in the Keys.
Cruz Afrika
Hip-hop musician Cruz Afrika
Personal Details
Name:
Tshepo Modise
Born:
23 March 1983 (age 43 years old)
Place of birth:
Taung, North West, South Africa
Nationality:
South African
Education:
Music production
Alma mater:
ST Institute in Braamfontein
Occupation:
Artist, songwriter, choreographer, music entrepreneur
Early Life
Cruz was born on 23 March 1983 in Taung, North West, South Africa. He grew up in Soweto, Johannesburg.
Education
Cruz Afrika studied music production at ST Institute in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
Career
Modise started as a dancer for Robbie Malinga, Zola 7, Stoan of Bongo Maffin, and Jub Jub. He also worked with notable musicians such as King Barilla, Kay-E, Maraza, Chillimane, and Power.
In 2015, Cruz released “Bana ba” featuring Emtee, Red Button and Bruno from Etv Rhythm City.
Cruz dropped “China Man” in 2016 through Universal Music Group, featuring Nigerian hip-hop heavyweight Eindo. He later released the hit song “Shaka Zulu” in 2018.
In 2017, he launched the music record label and PR Company Afrika Hotlines to identify and groom up-and-coming artists. He announced his retirement from the music industry in March 2023 after 10 years.
In 2025, Cruz returned from retirement with the hard-hitting comeback single “Tau” featuring rapper Notshi. He released the uplifting track “Mother’s Prayer“ alongside Siya Shezi in 2026.
He entered label distribution deals with two reputable music distribution platforms, Vydia and Gamma. He founded Rustenburg Garden Festival and also runs the media and entertainment company, 011 Media and Projects.
Personal Life
Cruz Afrika is married to his longtime partner, DJ Lisa.
Imanuweli Mzingeli joined Eyaziwa in 2026. He holds a degree in Political Science from a prestigious university. Outside of his storytelling work, he enjoys reading and video games.
