Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
BULAWAYO-based musician Alec Mpofu, popularly known as Amaselasela, is working on his debut album, Indleko Zomjolo, as he seeks to take his self-styled African Clap House Music to a wider audience.
The 10-track project is expected to mark a significant step in the career of the musician, who began recording music in 2019 in Lower Gweru, where he grew up.
Amaselasela said his sound combines traditional African rhythms with house music, drawing inspiration from his Ndebele cultural background.
“I loved house music but I wanted something that speaks to our Ndebele culture. So I mixed traditional clap rhythms, African drums and house beats — that’s how African Clap House Music was born,” he said.
The musician describes himself as the founder and pioneer of the genre, which he hopes will inspire young people while showcasing African musical influences.
Among his popular songs are Amabhompom, Impilo Liviri, Loluthando featuring Mbalynryns, Ngidingimali and Amaweekend Wonke.
He identified Amabhompom as his best-performing release so far, attributing its appeal to its relatable themes and danceable rhythm.
“People connect with it because it’s real, it’s about our township life and the beat makes you dance even when you are sad,” he said.
Having shared the stage with artistes such as Godolude, Mxolisi Mr Bones and Insimbi ZeZhwane, Amaselasela said the experience had helped him develop his performance skills.
Looking ahead, he plans to collaborate with artistes from Zimbabwe and South Africa in 2027. He is also planning a homecoming show in Lower Gweru, which he hopes will give him an opportunity to reconnect with the community where his musical journey began.
However, the independent musician said securing opportunities at major events and attracting wider promotional support remained some of the challenges facing his career.
“The biggest challenge is getting a chance to feature in big events such as Shutdown and to get features with big artists. Promotion is also hard as an independent artist,” he said.
He plans to promote his music across digital platforms, work with producers and strengthen his brand as he pursues international recognition.
“My dream is to take African Clap House international and make Zimbabwe proud,” he said.
Amaselasela, who is based in Bulawayo, is also available for bookings, with upcoming performances planned for Esigodini and other local festivals.
