Alumni

Alumni

Bongeziwe Mabandla teams up with producer David Scott on new song ‘Soloko’

2014 OneBeat Alumnus Bongeziwe Mabandla has shared a new single called ‘Soloko’, which means ‘always’ in isiXhosa. The song was produced by South African producer David Scott, known for his work with electronic duo The Kiffness. Regarding the song’s lyrics, Mabandla said“I had been thinking about relationships and how significant connections are in our lives. I think that the people we bring into our lives not only leave a mark with us but unintentionally mold and shape us. That’s how the song came about; just thinking back a few years ago and some of the people that have been in and out of my life and how I still care about them, even if I hardly see them. It’s written about the thought of running into someone you used to spend every day with, five years later.” Mabandla released his debut album Mangaliso last year to overwhelming critical acclaim. The album […]
Alumni

Eduardo Valencia’s Quitapenas Release “Tranquilidad”

KCRW premiered a new single by California band Quitapenas, which features 2015 Fellow Eduardo Valencia on percussion. Guitarist and singer Daniel Gomez said the song was – “inspired by 1970’s and 1980’s Funana and Coladeira music from Cabo Verde and from the Afro-Puerto Rican rhythm known as Bomba.” The lyrics bring with them a strong reflection of “how we as humans, continue to damage and deplete our natural resources. It expresses our shame and asks Mother Nature for forgiveness and patience as we hope to all one day realize that tranquility and happiness does not come from exploitation  but from loving and taking care of each other and our environment.” The single will be released along with “Como Oro” as a 45 by NY label Names You Can Trust. Listen to both songs here.
Alumni

Mandla Mlangeni Wins 2019 Standard Bank Young Artist Award

Congratulations to 2017 Fellow Mandla Mlangeni on winning the Standard Bank Young Artist Award! Established in 1981, the Young Artist Award is one of the most prestigious awards program in South Africa. It recognizes emerging, relatively young South African artists who have demonstrated exceptional ability in their fields. Mandla joins a list of winners that include renowned singer Sibongile Khumalo, painter William Kentridge, and legendary composer Bongani Ndodana. As part of the award, Mandla will receive a commission to premiere a new work at the 2019 National Arts Festival, which will take place next summer  in Grahamstown.   You can read more about this year’s Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners HERE.