27-year-old singer-songwriter Langa Mavuso (born Nkosinathi Nhlakanipho Mavuso) isn’t afraid to lay it all bare in his music. In his critically acclaimed debut album Langa, released in 2020, the R&B and soul artist explored the stages of heartbreak. Mavuso’s recent music videos for ‘Panther’ and ‘Pretend’ tell poignant stories about love – both queer and tender. While he’s working on new music for feature projects and his second full-length album, we asked the rising star to turn the tables briefly, sharing five of the tracks by South African artists he’s loving right now and why.
1. ‘Flava’ by Black Coffee featuring Una Rams and Telemann
“This has to be the best get up and go tune out right now. It features one of my good friends Una Rams. I just love the beat and energy of it.”
2. ‘Sunday Morning’ by Rowlene featuring Manana
“The ultimate heart break ballad. Watching the South African R&B and soul grow over the past few years has been incredible. This song embodies some of the our talents in R&B and soul. Also heartbreak is just better on a Sunday morning.”
3. ‘3rd Movement’ by Ndabo Zulu and Umgidi Ensemble
“An impeccable 17 minutes and 13 seconds of pure excellence. This work really requires a full listen through to understand in context. I recommend you listen to the full LP when you can. It’s pure brilliance and art.”
4. ‘Manelo’ by Yanga Chief
“A melodic political commentary on the state of our leadership. Yanga Chief is one of my favorite South African rappers. He’s so musical and melodic in his delivery. This song shows us the best of these attributes”
