Discovering Jéan Citto: South Africa’s Rising Star

If you haven't heard of Jéan Citto yet, you’re in for a treat. This unsigned South African talent is quickly carving his name into the hearts of music lovers, blending his powerful vocals, diverse musicality, and a stage presence that commands attention. Whether he’s covering Bruno Mars with a twist of his own or delivering original tracks like "Stay" and "For You", Jéan is proving that he’s much more than just a pretty voice—he’s a full-fledged musical force.

From the Sound Booth to the Stage: A Journey Fueled by Passion

Born on April 26th, 1993, Jéan Citto’s passion for music ignited during his time at Cape Audio College, where he studied sound engineering. It was there, surrounded by the hum of mixing desks and the raw beauty of live sound, that he began composing his own music using his piano and guitar. His ability to both create and perform has led him on a path that’s taken him from South Africa’s top stages to international venues, and his journey is one that inspires everyone who dreams of making it in the music world.

His career took off at the age of 19 when he first graced the stage of The Voice SA (season 2) and Idols South Africa, showing the world that he had more than just talent—he had determination and a killer voice. His versatility as an artist has led him to share stages with iconic South African acts like Mi Casa, Jimmy Nevis, Craig Lucas, Youngsta CPT, Paxton, and Vicky Sampson. Quite the crowd, right?

A Voice Like No Other: Bruno Mars Covers & Beyond

While Jéan Citto is undeniably a powerhouse in his own right, he’s become particularly known for his Bruno Mars covers. Who hasn’t been floored by his soulful renditions of some of Mars’ biggest hits? The way he channels Bruno’s smooth falsetto and infuses it with his own unique energy is nothing short of magical. It’s no surprise that audiences can’t get enough of him performing “Uptown Funk” or “That’s What I Like.”

But let’s be clear: Jéan is not just the cover guy—he’s got a solid catalog of original hits that are making waves in their own right. Tracks like "Stay" (2022) and "For You" showcase his growth as a singer-songwriter and demonstrate his ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners on a personal level. If you haven’t heard “Stay” yet, you’re in for a smooth, heart-wrenching journey through his lyrical storytelling and raw emotional expression.

Performing Across South Africa—and Beyond

Jéan’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed on the live performance circuit. He’s been rocking stages at some of South Africa's top venues, including headlining at the Mitchell’s Plain Festival hosted by DSTV and performing at the iconic Moonstruck event at Clifton 4th Beach. Not to mention his standout appearances at Real Art Wednesdays (RAW) and his unforgettable headline performance at the Grand Arena in Cape Town, where he took home the win in a singer-songwriter competition—a major milestone in his career.

His international journey has been equally impressive. From performing at the Mallorca International Music Festival in Spain to collaborating with Cape Town’s top artists on "We Are Survivors" (2020), Jéan has shown that he’s not afraid to take his music global. In fact, it’s this blend of local roots and international appeal that makes his sound so universal.

From Hoax to GTKY: Jéan’s Music Evolution

Let’s not forget about Jéan’s earlier hits. His first single, "Hoax", released at the infamous Huawei K-Day, gave fans a taste of his fresh style and versatility. His follow-up single, "GTKY" (Get To Know You), released in 2018 with a stunning Cape Town-shot music video, pushed his creative boundaries even further. But it’s his 2022 release, "Stay", that really solidified his place in the South African music scene. With its smooth vibes and relatable lyrics, it’s the kind of song you can’t help but play on repeat.

What’s Next for Jéan Citto?

Jéan Citto is far from done. As he continues to carve out his path in the music industry, he’s focused on expanding his solo career, collaborating with fellow artists, and, most importantly, staying true to his artistic vision. His plan is to keep pushing the envelope, always bringing something new to the table while never shying away from the mic. If his past releases and performances are any indication, we can expect more unforgettable music, captivating performances, and a whole lot of soul.

Jéan Citto’s musical journey is just beginning, and we’re all here for it. Whether you're a fan of his Bruno Mars covers or his original music, one thing is clear: Jéan is a talent to watch. So, keep your ears open and your eyes on this rising star—you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!

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