Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
From the cultural heartbeat of Bulawayo to international dance floors, MJ Sings (real name Mncedisi Jeremiah Ncube) is proving that soulful Zimbabwean music can resonate across borders.
His latest Afro-house single, Asibe Mnandi, a collaboration with Murphy Cubic, has struck a chord with fans locally and abroad, trending on TikTok and finding its way into the sets of internationally acclaimed Afro-House DJ and producer Nitefreak, who has been spinning the track during his European tour.
Speaking about the track’s creation, MJ Sings shared the spontaneous nature of its inception.
“We were exchanging ideas over calls because Murphy and I are in different countries. He created the beat and sent it to me, and unknowingly, I wrote those lines and sent them as a voice note. We ended up recording that idea in the studio.
“Honestly, I can’t say I had a specific inspiration, it just came to me. Sometimes songs pop into my head; I guess it’ll always be a myth,” he said.
From the first listen, MJ and Murphy knew they had something special.
“With every song, I feel something different, but with Asibe Mnandi, we instantly knew it was a hit, even before sharing it with the world. We probably played it daily for three months before the official release,” MJ revealed.
Asked about the approach to the song’s sound, MJ explained that his versatility stems from his upbringing.
“I grew up listening to a lot of different music genres. I never limit myself as an artiste. House music has always felt natural to me because, as Africans, rhythm is in our DNA,” he said.
The track’s impact reached new heights when Nitefreak (real name Bhekinkosi Mabhena) introduced it during a set in London.
“First time-ever testing it out was in London. The room erupted when the drop came, it was a wow moment for me,” Nitefreak shared.
For MJ, watching the song break language barriers was a powerful experience.
“It was heart-warming to see the world vibe to the song without being held back by language. That’s music at its best,” he said.
MJ also credited Nitefreak for introducing him to Murphy Cubic back in 2014.
“I go a long way with Nitefreak. We’ve been making music together for years. Funny enough, he’s the one who introduced me to Murphy because he believed we could create something great together,” MJ recalled.
He added a note of appreciation for producers and DJs.
“They’ve always been the steering wheel of the music industry. They create the sound but rarely get the recognition they deserve. It’s great that the world is now seeing their importance,” he said.
Looking back, MJ reflected on his journey with gratitude, calling it preparation rather than delay.
“All those moments prepared me for bigger stages. Music has always been my healing tool. I’ve always known my purpose is to impact lives through music and art. It has shaped me in many ways and taught me the responsibility that comes with this gift,” he said.
To aspiring artistes, MJ said: “The story I want my life to tell is one of possibilities, patience, and persistence. To young artistes, do you. Create that art and put it out. Don’t chase perfection or validation; art is rarely understood at first glance.”
Known as the “Prince of Soul”, MJ Sings has built a career anchored in vulnerability, healing, and storytelling. From early days with the boy band Oasis to major festivals and intimate shows across Zimbabwe and abroad, his music continues to carry the voice of Bulawayo to the world.
