Musa Keys teams up with international artists and local NGO for new amapiano EP
GRAMMY-NOMINATED singer and producer Musa Keys has collaborated with local non-profit organisation Bridges For Music as well as international artists for his upcoming amapiano EP, “Mix It Up Vol 3”.
The three-track offering includes songs such as “Living My Life”, “Come Closer” and “No Police”.
They were executive produced by Keys along with local producers Duppy, Nkulee and Toby Franco.
American rapper A$AP NAST, Nigerian singer Teni and UK artist Unknown T also lend their voices on the tracks.
According to a statement: “International cultures and music styles come together on the tracks of ‘Mix It Up Vol 3’ to embrace the amapiano genre - a genre that’s constantly evolving and champions collaboration and experimentation.
“On ‘Mix It Up Vol 3’ the infectious rhythms of the piano with stand-out amapiano producer Nkulee, Wonder-boy Duppy and the self-proclaimed prince of amapiano, Toby Franco meet the raw US rap of A$AP NAST, the mesmerising lyricism of Teni and the distinctive drill tones of Unknown T.”
To honour the South African heritage and to provide a platform for up-and-coming musicians, the non-profit organisation, Bridges For Music, and the Mix It Up project were established.
The project is currently in its third year and highlights the amazing sounds emerging from the South African and international music communities.
Valentino Barrioseta, founder and CEO of Bridges For Music, said the project bridged the gap between the UK and SA.
“Mix It Up showcases young talent and provides a platform to spread our message on education, empowerment and community building.
“It directly integrates into Bridges for Music’s mission to create positive social impact through music, helping to pave the way for a brighter future for creative youth from under-resourced communities.”
Bridges For Music cultural manager, Dean Slotar, added: “We hope that the mixtape will help the world celebrate and indulge in the unique cultural expressions and musical styles of our community.
“We want people to feel inspired, empowered and uplifted so that our community can become their community. Together we can build a world where creativity thrives, creating positive change and developing new talent within the community.”
∎ “Mix It Up Vol 3” is available on all major music streaming platforms.