Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE Kwaito Kingpin Is Back!
Kwaito music lovers have been treated to a full meal as the genre’s kingpin, Mawiza, has bounced back with a full-length album, six years after his last such project.
Titled Vernacular Chef, the album offers 12 tracks, with some tipped to enjoy massive rotation on the airwaves thanks to the way they are composed and produced.
The Entumbane-bred artist worked closely with creatives from his own suburb, including the multi-award-winning Mzoe 7, Dr Juta, M-Kay, LU, and Kid Spookey. Also part of the project is celebrated poetess Sonkomose.
Songs on the album include “Zingela,” “Okudalelwe Wena,” “Stil Loksh,” “eLuveve,” “Nombela,” “Living Ancestors/eNjelele,” “Cocomelon,” “Umuhle,” “So Sweet,” “Peace maGents,” “Du-Pepe,” and “Izono.”
Mawiza said singles were no longer working for him, hence the decision to compose a full album and dish it out to his ‘starving’ fans.
“I last released an album six years ago, and I just felt it was the right time again to give those who follow me a full-length album. My music is inspired by real-life experiences, and I had a lot to unleash.
“With that in mind, an entire project made sense to work on as it makes it easier to share your story to the fullest compared to singles. Besides, singles were not working for me,” said Mawiza.
The eNtumbane koGogo hitmaker said he purposefully selected the team he worked with as he believes they would blend well with his style and taste in music.
“Inclusivity made me work with creatives from my hood because I believe good things have to start at home. I featured underserved creatives from Entumbane and around, as well as established creatives like Mzoe 7.
“I did all this because I think it is time I play my part and put on those who grew up looking up to us,” said Mawiza.
The people in the production department are loyal to Mawiza and his sound. They are none other than Skidoflex and South Africa-based Shuza Drums.
“I have been working with Skido for a very long time, and I now trust his production touch. I have been a fan of Shuza. He spiced up the album by producing two or three songs on the project,” said Mawiza.
With the album successfully released, Mawiza said he will monitor his fans’ reactions, and the most loved songs will then be accompanied by visuals.
derick.khumalo