By Doreen Mokgolo
Legendary mbhaqanga musician Babsy Mlangeni believes he still has enough music in him to cater to people of all ages.
The 80-year-old musician has released his latest single, “Kumnandi”, which was produced by legendary kwaito musician Joe Nina.
To remain relevant the song is a fusion of amapiano and kwaito beats.
In an exclusive interview with Scrolla.Africa the “Sala Emma” hitmaker said he will only stop singing when he is six feet under the ground.
He started working on the single late last year but decided to ask Nina to bring a vibey feel to it.
“Every musician has to rebrand to remain relevant to cater to the new generation.
“I have released two versions of the song, the straight version where my old fans will be able to relate and the mixed version which is a piano beat for the younger fans,” he said.
The award-winning artist added that he is looking to release an album in the near future.
“At the moment I am hesitant as music is not selling as it used to in the past due to the economy.
“I will see how the single and EP perform and take it from there,” he said.
Mlangeni’s big break was in 1968 when he released a “Sala Emma” track, a crossover song that was loved by people of all ages and cultures.
Though the guitarist and composer has also been involved in business he says music is his first love.
He still performs on various stages and at events and keeps his fans on their feet.
“I am still strong and fit. There is nothing that will slow me down but death and even then when it finally creeps in it will find me on the stage doing what I love,” he said.
Pictured above: Babsy Mlangeni
Image source: Supplied
