With over a million TikTok views and an energy-packed new EP, South Africa’s father-and-son rock duo Cantrel are shaking up the music scene.
From heartfelt lyrics to explosive live performances, Neil and Jesse Breytenbach are connecting with audiences worldwide one jump, bounce, and riff at a time.
CANTREL’S VIRAL SUCCESS AND GLOBAL MOMENTUM
Their latest release, Jump, blends raw emotion with high-voltage sound, and it’s not just fans paying attention. In an exclusive interview with The South African, the pair open up about their musical journey, going viral, writing during lockdown, and using their platform to speak about mental health.
During lockdown, Jesse worked on Zoom lessons, and Neil invited him to their home studio sessions to produce music. Neil says, “We were checking out the music, and we’re like, Hey, this is actually pretty cool.”
They decided “maybe we should carry on doing this and actually create a Cantrel duo from here.”
From that moment on, the father–son rock partnership officially began. Their first song together, Wonderful Hours Burn, emerged with piano and Jesse’s powerful vocals.
Neil explains it asks, “Would you give up if you lost everything, or would you push through the hard times?” They released it acoustically, then produced a radio-friendly remix upon strong fan reaction and love.
WORKING TOGETHER AS FATHER AND SON
Jesse says working together feels “like working with a brother,” with matching personalities and musical interests.
Neil adds, “It’s very natural and very raw,” as their life and music flow seamlessly together. Their creative process thrives on ease and unity, blending family and artistry in real time.
The duo has toured several countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland and South Africa, for electrifying live performances. They share how KwaZulu-Natal has influenced their music.
“Northern vibes hit you the moment you land at King Shaka airport,” Neil reveals about KZN’s energy.
Their music channels that lively spirit, aiming to make fans dance, smile, and jump with joy. The region’s warmth, colour, and vibrancy echo in the duo’s upbeat rhythms and melodic force.
JESSE ON HIS MUSICAL JOURNEY
Jesse says he’s always been part of the school choir. He shares that he kept singing until lockdown ignited his serious music path with Neil.
Neil recalls how “we started writing more songs together, started playing live shows,” after Jesse matriculated. They both noticed crowds responding well, and Jesse says he’s “really grateful” for the opportunity to perform.
Jesse admits, “It’s difficult at times” balancing academics and touring, but he makes it work with discipline.
Their collaborative passion drives both music and learning, proving that commitment thrives through dedication. Despite homework deadlines and stage lights, Jesse’s juggling act reinforces his resilient and determined spirit.
Cantrel’s EP Jump is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, YouTube Music, and more platforms now.
HAVE YOU STREAMED THEIR MUSIC?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
