De Mthuda returns with EP 'Noise'

Amapiano pioneer De Mthuda is back with his latest EP, Noise, a project centred on creative freedom, cultural expression and the energy that continues to shape his sound.

Leading up to the release of Noise, De Mthuda unveiled new music week after week, with every release serving as a deliberate chapter in a much larger artistic vision.

The renowned music producer explained to IOL that he was inspired to release the music in bits because he wanted people to take in the sound in small doses and be gently introduced to the music.

“I do not shock them; that way they can get a chance to get familiar with Noise.”

At its core, Noise isn't about volume; it's about impact. It represents cultural shifts; it inspires creative freedom that comes from challenging structural conventions.

De Mthuda explains that at his current stage in his career, making noise is “being free in mind, body and spirit”.

“That is what the culture is about - freedom of choice, freedom of thinking, freedom of expression and things like that.”

Noise is a simple yet thought-provoking title and for De Mthuda it’s about being free. “I feel raw energy in my mind; my mind state is free and Noise feels free.”

One of the standout singles on Noise is Sasingenjena, which unites him with celebrated talent Kabza De Small and Mnqobi Yazo.

For De Mthuda, “music is energy,” and he felt that both Mnqobi Yazo and Kabza De Small would be perfect, and they delivered.

De Mthuda is always in the studio, but he surrounds himself with people he loves and trusts, and vice versa, which helps him protect his creative energy.

When it comes to the emotions De Mthuda wants listeners to experience when listening to Noise, it’s simple: feel good, dance and repeat.

• IOL