Mandy Mae bounces back

Langalakhe Mabena
Many started to know of her after her performance at the youthful Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF) in June 2020, after that, the Afro-Reggae sensation Mandie Mae’s star shone all the way throughout that year to the extent of being nominated at the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (RoilBAA) for outstanding newcomer.

Exactly three years later, the dreadlocked empress has bounced back with a 16-track album, whose first eight tracks were released last month, with the remaining set to be released on 15 April at an intimate gig which will be held at Carne Casa.

Making it to the album is the fusion of seasoned and up-and-coming creatives including the legendary Jeys Marabini, Madlela Skhobokhobo, Asaph, fast-rising stars Acquillah K, Mzistozz Mfanafuthi, T’Culture, Brucella and Sparks 45.

It also features Harare-based singer Chido Machanzi and Italy-based Zimbabwean artiste Seven.

Several heads composed and perfected the album and they include producers such as Sparks 45, Lungz D, Gangsta Made It, Jamal No Limits, Collin Beats, Roote Gold and Lourenzo.

Talented guitarist Kinah the Music and Mthabisi were approached to play guitar strings. Producers Collin, Sparks45 and Lungz helped in the music writing, as well as songwriter Lisa Ndlovu.

In an interview, Mandie Mae said she featured artistes from different ages and cultures so as to add flavour on the project that will last forever and be cherished by music enthusiasts.

“Many people were surprised by the style and the kind of music that I do. And, to make the album purer, I incorporated a lot of creatives from different backgrounds and genres so as to accommodate everyone.

“Wondering how you can have Marabini and Asaph in the same album? Well, for me, it’s really important to infuse the young and old and I am sure one can learn a few tricks from the seasoned creatives.

“My followers loved the first eight singles that I released last month with many giving feedback that I sounded mature, I then thought why not release the last eight songs on a launch at Carne Casa,” said Mandie Mae.