One of Africa’s most legendary African music acts – Mafikizolo from South Africa – will make their debut on Coke Studio Africa this year, paired alongside returning Kenyan artist Nyashinski. The pairing has already met in Nairobi, Kenya where the show is being recorded, and will be produced by top South African pop music producer, Sketchy Bongo.
During a Coke Studio Africa ZA Instagram Live interview with the “Khona” hit makers, Theo of Mafikizolo talked about their experience at Coke Studio Africa while in Nairobi: “We’ve got different studios in a creative environment. We love for its warmth and nice feel. So far the vibe is good!” Adding, “We’ve done some research on Nyashinski and found out that he is very versatile as far as music is concerned. We are also versatile, so expect that we might do a hip hop track, afro beat, house or anything that the producers throw at us.” Mafikizolo also announced that they will be releasing a special album with 20 tracks this year to celebrate their 20th anniversary in the music industry.
With double hits: “Aminia” and “Malkia”, Nyashinski is renown as Kenya’s come back King. Last year on Coke Studio Africa, he was paired alongside Nigerian super star Yemi Alade. As he makes a return to the show this year, he expressed his excitement for the new season saying, “I am happy to be back on the show and can’t wait to work with Mafikizolo – a group I have always held in high regard as my icons.”
Another artist based in South Africa, Tresor, who recently brokered a 7-figure multi-year record deal is also set to feature on Coke Studio Africa this year, paired alongside Locko from Cameroon. The multi-award winning singer and songwriter spearheading pop in Africa spoke in Nairobi during the show’s recording, “African music has had barriers for a very long time but Coke Studio Africa is a melting point of artists from allover Africa to give the world the best of African music. Its crucial since right now we (African artists) are at the forefront of influencing pop culture.”
Shekhinah, AKA, Busiswa, Nasty C, Amanda Black and Mi Casa are among top South African music acts set to feature on Coke Studio Africa – 2017, this year. Super star producers will include DJ Maphorisa, Sketchy Bongo and South Africa based Malawian producer – Gemini Major. Coke Studio starts to air in South Africa this August, followed by over 30 other African countries from Sept – 2017.