Kwaito Music & The Ruffest

We've teamed up with Olmeca Tequila to bring you the Switch On The Night documentary series, ten short films about the people, places and products that contribute to making dance music culture what it is today.

Ruffest are a South African duo and an important part of the Kwaito movement. Made up of Max and Sello they are arguably one of the biggest champions to South Africa's ever-loved, and these days sometimes ignored, indigenous Kwaito music. Coming from the township of Nyanga they embody the resilient and passionate attitude that so many Kwaito artists have imbued as a part of their success.

Both of these talented artists began as dancers a decade ago. It was this that gave the two their passion for music. Although they were in different dance crews, the two soon met and began making music together.

We traveled to South Africa to meet the charismatic duo on their home turf, sit in on a studio session and learn more about Kwaito and it's impact on dance music worldwide.