THE AIR was thick with basslines and grief.
At Napscom Hall in Tzaneen, friends, family, and industry colleagues came together, not in silence, but in rhythm to bid farewell to DJ Poizen, born Caven Masetla.
The 35-year-old was not only a rising musical force, but a soul who united generations with groove and laughter.
His funeral on Saturday was anything but traditional. There were remixes alongside hymns, and trembling shoulders moving to the beat of memory.
On Thursday, 11 September, his life was celebrated at a memorial service held at Centurion Shisanyama in Tshwane.
Poizen died in a tragic car accident on 30 August 2025, along with four other passengers.
He was travelling with fellow artist DJ Chymamusique, who survived with serious injuries and has since been moved out of ICU.
Neighbours and loved ones painted a picture of a deeply grounded man.
"I'm talking about Caven, not DJ Poizen," said neighbour Sarah Makgoba.
"He was raised by his grandmother, who taught him respect. Even when he became famous, he never changed."
She recalled how he encouraged her to learn DJing, always bringing laughter and humility to their community.
Friends from childhood shared fond memories.
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"He loved Michael Jackson," one said. "He'd turn rulers and dusters into drums in class, and we'd get in trouble for making music."
Another friend, Masilo, remembered growing up together. "Life wasn't easy, but Caven brought light. He even taught me how to drive."
Capricorn FM's Master Jay spoke of Poizen's musical legacy: "His music will live on through our airwaves."
Industry veteran Edgar Modiba, who mentored him, added, "We've lost a true soldier in the music scene."
Caven's aunt, Regina Joubert, shared a touching memory: "He joked about helping with my funeral one day. He even asked me to help him find a wife."
His brother, Blondie Masetla, recalled sleepless nights filled with Poizen's beats. "I didn't know that noise would one day turn him into an icon."
Beyond music, Caven also worked in IT. His colleague, Israel, shared, "He had just passed an exam and was about to start a new journey."
