PJ Pretorius

Each year, the international talent television show The Voice SA rounds up the country’s most talented singers and brings them to our attention. South Africa’s Season 2 contestant PJ is one such talent.

Born in Sasolburg and raised in the small town of Secunda in Mpumalanga, the multi-instrumentalist was destined for success, and within minutes of his blind audition, he had impressed the local coaches, securing his spot in the line-up.

PJ immediately became a fan favourite, ending his epic journey on the show as a sought-after Top 6 competitor. But what represented the end of the show for many, was only the beginning for PJ – the start of a flourishing and lifelong career.

You see, PJ is not your ordinary superstar. Growing up with a passion for music, his talent is rooted in his DNA. He is what many would call a natural-born talent, his success written in the stars.

At the age of 16, he began playing percussion in a punk rock gospel youth band, and taught himself the guitar, piano and a year later discovered he could sing.

He entered the television show, X Factor in 2013, making it to the boot camp phase. While many were searching for their spot in the limelight, PJ just wanted to showcase his talent, knowing that his vocal proficiency would speak for itself. The competition inspired him to push himself musically, growing not only as an artist but as an individual as well.

The singer songwriter has since gone on to perform on some of SA’s top festival stages, done various mall activations, corporate events as well as entertain and inspire youngsters at school events. And despite his iminent success, PJ has not forgotten his roots, similarly entertaining and leading worship in numerous churches across the country.

Moreover, his songwriting skills were put to the test when the international charity, Break the Barriers, commissioned him to write two songs, one of which is being used for their introductory promotional video.

Ultimately, it was The Voice SA which put him on the map. Encouraged by his local community to enter the competition, PJ made his fans proud with 3 coach turns in the blind auditions, with his heartwarming rendition of Coldplay’s “Yellow.” Despite Lira and Kahn’s praises, PJ picked Karen Zoid as his coach.

The flourishing superstar is under no illusions and understands that the hard work starts now. Relocating to Johannesburg, PJ is currently working on his debut single, set for release later this year.