In the vibrant, ever-evolving landscape of London’s electronic music scene, one name is rapidly rising to prominence; CLEIDO, DJ, Creative Director and A&R of Sondela Recordings (originally a part of Defected Records). The label was launched as an imprint under Defected in 2021, with a focus on Afro-house and other African-inspired electronic music genres. Sondela aimed to showcase and promote African music and artists on a global scale. After its initial success under Defected, Sondela Recordings eventually became independent, continuing to grow its influence in the Afro-Tech and Afro-house scenes.
CLEIDO isn’t just making waves; he’s creating a tsunami of innovation that is redefining the Afro-Tech genre. Over the past year, since Sondela’s departure from Defected Records, CLEIDO has played a pivotal role in shaping the label’s future, working alongside founder Louie Dunmore to establish a distinctive sound and a brand identity that reverberates far beyond the UK. His unique Afro-Tech sound, shaped by his diverse cultural roots and studies in Economics and Marketing in London, blends South African deep house with the cutting-edge rhythms of the city’s electronic scene. This distinct style has led him to perform alongside top artists like Stephan Jolk, Kevin De Vries, and DJEFF, solidifying his reputation in London and gaining him recognition on the international stage.
His influence doesn’t stop at Sondela. As the music director at Reunion London, he curates unforgettable experiences that transport audiences into the rich and diverse musical tapestry of the African continent. It was also created with the aim of endorsing and creating opportunities for local upcoming talents like himself. His sets are more than just a collection of tracks—they are meticulously crafted journeys that blend Afro-house, deep house, indie dance, and melodic techno into a seamless sonic adventure. With each performance, CLEIDO infuses his unique twist, offering a fresh perspective on the sounds of Africa that keeps his audiences captivated from the first beat to the last.
He has captivated audiences with six sold-out CLEIDO & Friends nights at South Kensington’s B Club, made his Fabric London debut in 2023 with Sondela, where he played a pivotal role in an iconic Afro-Tech sold out showcase across two of the venue’s largest rooms. The event, which featured him playing alongside Karyendasoul and Louie Dunmore, as well as performances from Themba Cameron Jack, and Kitty Armor, marked a significant moment for the label and affirmed CLEIDO’s position as a key figure in its evolution.
His approach to music is as diverse as the city he calls home. He draws inspiration from the cultural melting pot that is London, infusing his sets with an eclectic mix of sounds that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of the city’s underground scene. His ability to seamlessly fuse genres and create an immersive experience has made him a sought-after DJ, not just in London, but on the global stage. His collaboration with DJ KILIMANJARO, who endorsed him on Pete Tong’s BBC Radio 1 show in 2024, further cemented his status as a rising star. This recognition, coupled with his role in curating music for KILIMANJARO’s BBC Radio 1 residency, highlights CLEIDO’s versatility and growing influence.
As CLEIDO continues to push the boundaries of Afro-Tech, he is not just an artist to watch—he is a visionary leading the charge in bringing African musical culture to the forefront of the global electronic music scene. With a passion for innovation and a deep respect for the roots of African music, CLEIDO is set to become a defining voice in the future of electronic music.