Remembering Poizen: A Musical Journey Marked by Legacy and Loss

The South African music community is mourning the untimely passing of Poizen, real name Caven Masetla , whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident on Saturday, August 30th. For fans and fellow artists alike, his death is not just the loss of a talented producer and DJ, but also the silencing of a creative force who was steadily shaping the soundscape of deep house lite and amapiano.

From humble beginnings in Tickeyline, Limpopo, Poizen rose through the ranks of South Africa’s music scene with a sound that was both soulful and futuristic. His productions carried a rare emotional depth, while his DJ sets had the power to transform any space into a journey of rhythm and feeling. Over the years, he earned the respect of peers and the admiration of audiences across the country, becoming a key figure whose influence stretched well beyond his hometown roots.

Though widely recognized as a solo artist, Poizen’s story also traces back to his time as part of House Victimz, the deep house duo whose music had already made waves in South Africa. That foundation shaped his approach to sound design and artistry, laying the groundwork for his remarkable solo journey.

Among his standout milestones was his feature on Groove Cartel. His first appearance on the platform gave audiences an intimate look at his artistry as a solo act, a set that felt less like a performance and more like a heartfelt story told through music. It was a defining moment that positioned him as a true craftsman behind the decks, capable of blending genres with finesse while staying rooted in deep house traditions.

When Poizen returned for his second Groove Cartel episode, it was more than a comeback — it was a moment of growth, showing his evolution as an artist. With each track, he displayed greater confidence, sharper vision, and an even deeper connection with his audience. The episode, which premiered on YouTube on the very same day he tragically lost his life, is now immortalized as both a testament to his artistry and a bittersweet reminder of a career that ended far too soon.

Just weeks before his passing, Poizen released Ngiphe, an album that stands as his most complete statement as an artist. Dropped on August 8, 2025, Ngiphe — meaning “Give” — is a body of work that merges deep house grooves with the warmth of jazz and carefully chosen samples of old songs. Both spiritual and dancefloor-ready, the album reflects Poizen’s duality as a creator: a producer grounded in heritage yet always pushing toward the future. For many, Ngiphe is now more than music, it is his final offering, a gift to fans that embodies his spirit.

In his final Groove Cartel interview, Poizen reflected on his renowned sampling skills, sharing that his journey began at home, listening to jazz records with his father. For him, flipping any song into a deep house masterpiece wasn’t just a technique — it was second nature, born of years spent immersed in sound and memory.

But perhaps the most powerful moment came when he was asked what kept him going in the music industry. With disarming honesty, he replied: “It’s the love. I don’t do it for money, to me, it’s a hobby, a game.” In those words, Poizen revealed the essence of his artistry: music was never about fame or profit, but a pure expression of joy, curiosity, and passion.

The outpouring of tributes from the music industry speaks volumes about Poizen’s impact. His ability to inspire, his humility, and his relentless dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark. Beyond the beats and melodies, he was a cultural bridge — bringing Limpopo’s vibrance to national and global stages, and inspiring young DJs to believe that their stories, too, belonged in the music.

Memorial & Funeral Services

Gauteng Memorial Service
📍 Centurion Shisanyama
📅 Thursday, 11 September 2025
🕓 16:00 – 18:00
🎨 Theme: Black & Green

Limpopo Memorial Service
📍 Napscom Hall
📅 Friday, 12 September 2025
🕑 14:00 – 17:00
🎨 Theme: Black & Green

Funeral Service
📍 Napscom Hall → Ga-Malesa Cemetery
📅 Saturday, 13 September 2025
🕕 06:00

As the community gathers to bid him farewell, Poizen’s legacy will continue to live on through the music he created and the countless lives he touched. His Groove Cartel sets and his Ngiphe album will remain timeless reminders that great artists never truly leave us — their sound carries forward, forever.