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Fans have been eagerly awaiting new music from the band Mafikizolo, who has not put out an album since 2013. There was much excitement when they released their single “Colors of Africa”, featuring Dj Maphorisa and Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz. The music video was recently released on YouTube and it is already proving to be a hit.
Showcasing the diversity of Africa
Mafikizolo had a vision for the video to match the theme of the lyrics.
“Colors of Africa talks about unity in our beautiful continent, with a very diverse culture. It also encourages the spirit of excellence in the continent to conquer the rest of the world,” band member Theo Kgosinkwe said.
The video is set in several different locations throughout Johannesburg and showcases a variety of cultures, dances, fashion, and musical styles. Diamond Platnumz’ lyrics are in Swahili, Mafikizolo mixes Zulu and Sotho words, and everything is brought together by Dj Maphorisa’s Afrobeat-inspired music.
“We made sure we used our very own African designers [for the video], which included Laduma Ngxokolo of Maxhosa by Laduma, Skorzch by Zano Sithetho and Trevor Stuurman,” Mafikizolo member Nhlanhla Nciza said.
“We felt it was important to celebrate Africa and black excellence,” Kgosinkwe added.
Mafikizolo wants to work with more African artists
The members of Mafikizolo promised that their next album is coming soon.
“We know very well that our fans have been waiting for new music from us. We have heard them and we know that they will thoroughly enjoy our first single while we are putting final touches to the album,” Nciza said.
Kgosinkwe shared that the upcoming album is going to have a more African sound than their previous work.
“Over the years we’ve featured other musicians, but with this project we’re going to feature more African producers,” he said.
This single is a good indication of what kind of sound the album will have.
A talented group
Maphorisa has worked with Mafikizolo in the past. The DJ has also collaborated with Nigerian musicians Davido and Wizkid and recently featured on rapper Drake’s single: “One Dance.” Earlier this year, Platnumz worked with artists AY and Fally Ipupa. He revealed that he was featured on a song by Papa Wemba before his tragic passing. The single is set to be released soon to pay tribute to the late musician.
