The duo behind MFR Souls continue to shape the future of amapiano with their latest album 'From The Heart Of Piano. Picture: Supplied
From humble beginnings in Katlehong to becoming pioneers of the Amapiano movement, Tumelo Eric Nedondwe, known as 'Ma-Ero' and Tumelo Sam Mabe, known as 'Force Reloaded' came together to form MFR Souls.
While they’ve tasted success, the duo are not resting on their laurels. They have bold plans for this new year, including releasing new music and launching a record label.
The duo met at an event in 2009, exchanged contacts, and bonded over their shared love for music. In 2013, they decided to form the group Ma-Ero & Force Reloaded, which was later shortened to MFR Souls.
Ma-Ero's love for music was influenced by his father, who often bought records and played them on vinyl. “That's how I got the influence,” he recalls.
Force Reloaded, on the other hand, has been passionate about music since childhood. “I used to collect music for taxis and sell it to afford more,” he shares.
The duo took the music industry by storm when they released their first independent commercial single in 2018, titled ‘Bhamb'Khanda’ featuring TallArs Tee. The song quickly became a massive hit, one of the biggest Amapiano tracks in the country. Its success earned them the title ‘The Kings of Amapiano’.
MFR Souls said their biggest highlight came in 2019 when they signed a deal with Sony Music Africa, released their debut EP, and dropped ‘Love You Tonight’, a song that changed their lives and elevated their brand to new heights.
Following the success of ‘Love You Tonight’, the duo released their second single, ‘Lalela’, which topped major radio station charts. Its music video also dominated MTV Base and Channel O charts.
Late last year, the duo released their much-anticipated album, ‘From The Heart Of Piano’, a 14-track project that reimagines the beloved old-school Amapiano sound. Blending nostalgia with innovation, the album proves the legends are far from resting on their laurels. They’ve collaborated with notable artists like Eeque, Chley, Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Mawhoo, and Bassie, among others.
The duo revealed that they have several projects lined up for the new year, including new music, the launch of a record label, and various business ventures.
“We're gearing up for an exciting year with a record label, a music video, podcasts, and business ventures. We'll also be dropping more music and hosting shows both locally and internationally. There’s so much in store for our fans,” said MFR Souls.
They also encouraged new artists to be patient with themselves and focus on mastering their craft.
"We encourage new artists to be patient, master their craft, and stay true to themselves. Respect the game—you can never be bigger than the music. Don't just work hard; most importantly, work smart," they said.
WATCH VIDEO HERE: https://rumble.com/v6jxy2m-from-humble-beginnings-in-katlehong-to-becoming-pioneers-of-the-amapiano-mo.html
The Star
masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za
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