Doreen Mokgolo
Afro-soul music giants, Sliq Angel and MXO have finally released their new album, Monday Blues after 21 years of putting off the idea of forming a group.
The 10-track album, which remains true to their authentic style, was released through international recording label Olu8 on all digital platforms last Friday.
They promoted the album during their tour of the US which included stops in California, New York, and Oakland.
The group earned a nomination for the “Best Traditional Music Artist / Group of the year” category at the South African Traditional Music Achievement (SATMA) awards.
Mxolisi Lokwe, affectionately known as MXO, told Scrolla.Africa the new album celebrates their 21 years of brotherhood.
“In the early 2000s destiny brought us together and we found ourselves collaborating during concerts and shows in Yeoville.
“Our peers in music and fans encouraged us to form a group but we were not ready. We first had to pursue our individual careers,” he said.
During that period he learned the hard way that fame comes and goes.
The Mantongomane singer added that he received a raw deal from recording companies.
“As soon as there is a new kid on the block they focus all their attention on them and the promises they made fly out of the window,” said MXO.
“You end-up being frustrated while putting in a lot of work with very little effort from the recording company’s side.”
He said this forced him to learn the business side of the industry.
Working with Sliq allowed him to remain the artist that he was because they had the same vision for the end product.
He channelled all the experience he gained over the years into the group to help sustain it.
“It is sad that our music is celebrated and appreciated overseas more than in Mzansi. International fans attend our shows and buy our music,” he said.
