Junior Karabo Marilele AKA MJ The Dancer is the seasoned dancer, Master Of Ceremonies and a Disk Jockey born and raised in Soshanguve township in Pretoria, South Africa.

From a young age, Junior was exposed to the harsh realities of his township – gang violence and substance abuse were a constant part of his everyday life. Nonetheless, he learned to channel the hardships of his childhood into powerful dance moves that resonates with his fans.

Growing up in the township, MJ The Dancer never thought he would one day become a well-received artist. But with hard work, dedication and passion, he was able to make his dream a reality.

Junior realised his talent whilst in grade 10, he would stumble upon gatherings around the township, as he took the stage, people would get mesmerized by his flow, energy and moves. This secured several bookings for Junior. In that moment, MJ knew that the entertainment industry was for him. He saw the power that the stage had to tell stories, to spread messages, and to bring people together. From those days forward, MJ dedicated himself to learning more he can about the art form.

MJ says he was inspired by many people and different things but there are few that stands above. He tells The Red Dot that he was inspired by the legendary Michael Jackson and a few other legends in the industry.

Marilele is the proud Former Face Of Game Player Clothing and resident MC and he has worked with big names in the industry. He was crowned The Best MC Of The Year 2022 by the ….. Awards, and has shared stage with Mawhoo, Leon Lee, the late Vusi R5 and many more.

“The entertainment industry can be cruel and it isn’t for the faint hearted”. He said. One of the challenges that Junior encountered in his dancing career was coming into homophobic people who always had something to say about him, which affected his relationship between him and then management that led to then terminating their working contract on the 05th March 2024, but MJ says it was a blessing in disguise as he then decided to become an independent.

Junior is a proud member of the LGBTQ community.. “I’ve surrounded myself with people who supported me despite of my sexuality, therefore negative publicity does no longer slow me down and I’m blessed to have a strong pillar in my partner, by my side”. Said MJ

MJ says he is confident that his future is bright, and it is safe to say he is the next ‘IT’ artist in the industry. We can tell this by listening to his breath-taking future plans.

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