Amapiano pioneer explores freedom, creativity and cultural expression on latest project
Amapiano pioneer De Mthuda has returned with a new EP titled “Noise”, marking another chapter in the South African producer’s influential career.
The project follows a series of releases that De Mthuda shared week after week ahead of the full EP. Rather than releasing the music all at once, the producer deliberately introduced listeners to the project in smaller portions.
Speaking to IOL, De Mthuda explained that the approach was designed to allow audiences to gradually become familiar with the sound and ideas behind “Noise”.
He said he wanted listeners to experience the music in small doses rather than being overwhelmed by the project immediately.
A project about freedom
Despite its title, “Noise” is not simply about loudness or volume.
For De Mthuda, the project represents impact, cultural change and the creative freedom that comes from challenging established conventions.
The producer says that at this stage of his career, making noise means being free in his mind, body and spirit.
He connects that idea to the wider culture of amapiano, describing it as being about freedom of choice, freedom of thought and freedom of expression.
The title therefore reflects his current creative mindset and his desire to make music without feeling restricted by expectations.
Creative energy behind the EP
De Mthuda describes “Noise” as a reflection of his current state of mind.
For him, the project carries a sense of raw energy and freedom, with the music allowing him to express himself without unnecessary limitations.
The producer is known for spending significant amounts of time in the studio, but he says maintaining his creative energy also depends on the people around him.
He surrounds himself with people he loves and trusts, creating an environment that allows him to remain focused on his music.
‘Sasingenjena’ brings together stars
One of the standout singles from the EP is “Sasingenjena”, which features fellow amapiano heavyweights Kabza De Small and Mnqobi Yazo.
De Mthuda said he believed both artists were the right fit for the song and praised their contribution to the collaboration.
For the producer, music is fundamentally about energy, and the collaboration reflects the atmosphere he wanted to create on the track.
The pairing brings together different creative strengths while maintaining the distinctive sound associated with South Africa’s amapiano movement.
Feel good, dance and repeat
Ultimately, De Mthuda wants “Noise” to create a straightforward experience for listeners.
He hopes the project makes people feel good, dance and return to the music repeatedly.
With its themes of freedom, creativity and cultural expression, “Noise” represents another step in De Mthuda’s evolving artistic journey while continuing his contribution to the growth and development of amapiano.
