Ntando has ‘found his sound again’ with new CD
MULTI award-winning afro-soul musician Ntando Bangani is back with a new sound in his latest album, Mayibuye, a product he said captured his growth over the years.
Bangani was on a promotional tour in the Eastern Cape earlier this week for his album which was released two weeks ago.
Speaking to the Saturday Dispatch, he said: “I am trying to grow from the normal Ntando people have come to know, without transforming him completely. But I have grown and matured, and that is evident in this album.”
Bangani’s musical journey has come a long way since the 2003 release of his debut album, Kwantu, which saw him become a household name and a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
His second album, Imvelaphi, earned him numerous accolades and his track Dali Wam became a national hit, receiving airplay across the country.
Speaking about his journey over the years, Ntando said: “It had its ups and downs, but above all, I have learnt to use every opportunity to the fullest.
“I’ve always focused on bettering my craft. The journey has been a good one, full of learning experiences and I’m still learning.”
“Through each of the albums I’ve recorded over the years, I have grown. With Mayibuye, because I take my inspiration from life itself, the stories are different but I keep to my roots and my afrosoul sound.
“This album sounds different to the others. The instrumentals, the sound, it’s all new. I’ve spent the longest time on this album to make sure within myself that this was something I was happy with, and I am.”
Bangani said the songs on his album were inspired by life and the stories of his roots, and he believed his fans would find treasure in each of his songs.
He said a personal favourite was Inkomo Zam, which speaks to the dependence of black people on land and farming.
“Black people relied on livestock for their survival. If we had our land, I don’t think we’d be living like this [poverty].”
He said he was grateful for his staying power in such a competitive industry.
“I have been in the industry for a long time, but I needed to take a step back and gather myself. I have found my sound again.
“Each song tells a story and people will relate because they’ve been through similar situations.
“I hope to inspire and make people smile with my music,” he said.