Renowned producers Yumbs and Zwayetoven have joined forces to release their highly anticipated joint album, Soul Buddies. Featuring 21 expertly crafted tracks, the album promises to define the sound of the upcoming festive season, showcasing South Africa’s top-tier talent, including Mawhoo, Mthunzi, Ami Faku, Nasty C, Shekhinah, and the legendary DBN Gogo on the standout track Maqondisa, alongside Scotts Maphuma and Uncool MC.
At last night’s exclusive media album listening session, attendees were treated to a preview of selected tracks from the project. One standout moment came during the playback of With You, a groundbreaking collaboration between heavyweight rapper Nasty C and R&B sensation Shekhinah, marking their first venture into the Amapiano genre. The track earned a standing ovation from the audience, affirming its potential to become a fan favorite. The album as a whole has been described as a masterpiece, with each listener likely to resonate with their own standout tracks.
Building on the smooth and refined sound of “Private School” Amapiano, Soul Buddies is a testament to the duo’s artistry and deep-rooted connection, dating back to their time at the National School of the Arts. The album title nods to the nostalgic TV show Soul Buddyz, while celebrating their shared passion for soul-infused music.
The focus track, Maqondisa, is poised to become a summer anthem. Featuring DBN Gogo’s iconic flair and the powerhouse vocals of Scotts Maphuma and Uncool MC both known for their collaboration on the hit Kwenzakalan with Kabza De Small, Mr. JazziQ, and DJ Maphorisa the track delivers a seamless blend of nostalgia and innovation. This high-energy single marks the third release from Soul Buddies, cementing the duo’s ongoing collaborative success.
Yumbs, a multi-platinum producer, has built an impressive portfolio of hits, including Dali Wam by Pabi Cooper, Sondela by Venom x Shishiliza, and Ivy League by Kelvin Momo. His international footprint continues to grow, with Amapiano remixes of Ciara’s How We Roll featuring Chris Brown and Muni Long’s Made for Me. Zwayetoven, one of Amapiano’s most exciting rising stars, has made his mark working with DBN Gogo, Kelvin Momo, and Focalistic, further solidifying his reputation as a force in the genre.
Together, Yumbs and Zwayetoven deliver a polished, soulful soundscape in Soul Buddies, a project that celebrates the richness of South Africa’s music culture while setting the tone for the holiday season. With its vibrant collaborations and sophisticated grooves, Soul Buddies isn’t just an album; it’s an invitation to experience the future of Amapiano.
Soul Buddies is out now, Listen/Stream here: https://WarnerMusicAfrica.lnk.to/Soul_Buddies
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