SA: Apple Music shines spotlight on Urban Village in February

The announcement coincides with the release of the four-piece band’s 12-track album Udondolo. Notable songs on the album include ‘Dindi’, ‘Madume’, ‘Ubusuku’, ‘Empty K-Set’, ‘Umuthi’ and ‘Umhlaba Wonke’. Local musician Msaki is featured on 11 songs, except ‘Izivunguvungu’.

“We are Urban Village and we are really excited by this opportunity to be selected for the Apple Music New Artist Spotlight campaign,” the Soweto-based group said. “We just released our debut album Udondolo, a love letter to Soweto. Thank you to Apple Music for including us alongside such amazing artists that have been featured in past campaigns.”

Speaking to Music In Africa, the group’s drummer, Xolani Mtshali, said: “It’s of high significance to be chosen by a colossal streaming platform like Apple Music. This is our debut album, so having the spotlight on us gives us visibility on a global market and this is great for business. We would like to thank Apple Music for the recognition and plug.”

Music In Africa had the pleasure of speaking to Urban Village frontman Tubatsi Mpho Moloi following the release of ‘Izivunguvungu’ in June last year. He said the band’s motivation was to create music that encourages, entertains and awakens cultural and traditional consciousness.

“We are proud of our Soweto and South African roots but are positively pan-African and believe in an Africa where fathers are present and where our sisters can feel safe and have the same opportunities as our brothers,” he said. “Our songs all have messages, which align with this core belief. ‘Sakhisizwe’ seeks to encourage listeners to unite and build the nation, ‘Ubaba’ encourages people to embrace the importance of being a father and playing your role in society, and ‘Dindi’ celebrates one’s dark skin.”

Udondolo was released on French label NØ FØRMAT and is a fusion of modern urban influences with traditional elements. It seeks to chronicle the life of average black South Africans while speaking directly to the country’s communities.

The album is a direct reflection of the group’s surroundings as witnessed by the blending of languages and cultures in its compositions. The band comprises members Msthali, Moloi, guitarist Lerato Ntsane Lchiba and bassist Simangaliso Dlamini.

Listen to Udondolo on Apple Music.