MBABANE- Virtousouls are bringing together musical talent from Eswatini and South Africa with their upcoming single, “Malukatane,” set for release on Friday, October 9.
The song offers a modern interpretation of a traditional Siswati folklore song that many Swatis grew up singing. Virtousouls have taken the familiar cultural piece and transformed it into a Deep House production, creating a contemporary sound while preserving the identity and essence of the original.
Adding weight to the cross-border collaboration is South African DJ and producer Deeper Phil, a prominent name associated with Piano Hub. The producer has worked with some of the biggest names in the South African music industry, including Kabza De Small and Young Stunna.
The project also features Bolly SA, a recognised DJ and producer from Mpumalanga, further strengthening the South African connection behind the record.
While the collaboration brings together established and emerging creative influences, production remains at the centre of “Malukatane.” The track moves the traditional inspiration into the Deep House space, giving the song a fresh groove and atmosphere while allowing its familiar character to remain recognisable.
Okoohle provides the vocals, adding another layer of musical character and flavour to the production. The vocal contribution works alongside the production to give the traditional-inspired track a contemporary identity suited to modern audiences.
For Virtousouls, “Malukatane” represents another step in their growing relationship with Deep House. The single becomes their third Deep House release, demonstrating their continued experimentation with the genre and their willingness to explore different ways of expressing their musical identity.
The collaboration further highlights the creative relationship between artists from Eswatini and South Africa, with both sides bringing different musical influences to a project rooted in Southern African culture.
More than simply revisiting a familiar song, “Malukatane” gives a piece of Swati cultural heritage a new musical setting. Virtousouls are using the release to show how traditional sounds can be reimagined for contemporary audiences without losing their connection to home.
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