Originally from Port Elizabeth (PE) in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, Tarryn and Clairise of TxC grew up in a small city where, as they describe it, “everybody knows everybody.” Their hometown gave them more than just a place to call home. They were raised around a loving, helpful and friendly community, an environment they believe played a major role in shaping the humility they carry with them today.
After finishing school, the two moved to Cape Town together. That move became an important turning point in their lives. It was there that they began taking their passion for music more seriously and started their professional journey as a DJ duo.
As they developed their skills, they crossed paths with people who helped them understand the technical side of DJing and the business behind the music. Those early lessons gave Tarryn and Clairise the foundation they needed to eventually build TxC into the duo they are today.
While TxC has become closely associated with Amapiano, their musical taste goes far beyond the club. Growing up, they developed an appreciation for classic R&B, soul and gospel. Artists like Anita Baker and James Ingram remain part of the music they enjoy outside of their professional sets, while Tamia stands out for her catalog and the “girly, cute vibes” they connect with.
That wider appreciation for music continues to influence the way TxC approaches their own sound.
For Tarryn and Clairise, creating music is an intuitive process built around knowing exactly what they want their music to feel like. They have always been making music, but over time their process has become more focused. They understand their sound, they understand the energy they want to create in a club, and they are selective about every element that goes into a record.
Their partnership also works because they each bring something different to the table.
Tarryn is the creative visionary, often responsible for the initial plans and overall creative direction. She plays a major role in their visuals, fashion and the aesthetic surrounding TxC. Clairise serves as the structural backbone, handling organization, logistics and communication while making sure the ideas become reality.
That balance allows them to move as one unit without losing their individual strengths.
When it comes to the music itself, TxC is intentional about who they work with and how each record comes together. They have an instinct for knowing which production fits a particular vocalist and how to arrange a record without losing the soul of Amapiano.
Most importantly, they want their music to remain authentically South African.
While English can help connect their music with listeners around the world, TxC believes that changing too much for a global audience can take away from what makes the music special in the first place. They would rather allow artists to express themselves in their native languages and let the culture, emotion and identity remain intact.
That commitment to authenticity has helped shape a catalog that includes records such as “Nakupenda,” “Welele,” “Yebo,” “Imali,” “Turn Off The Lights,” “As’jike,” “Mude Mude,” and more.
From growing up in Port Elizabeth to building their sound in Cape Town, Tarryn and Clairise have continued to grow without losing the foundation that made them who they are. TxC represents more than a DJ duo. They represent South African culture, creativity and a sound that continues to reach beyond its borders.
Their journey is still moving forward.
Check out TxC’s latest album, “Straata,” out now on all streaming platforms.
