ChopLife SoundSystem, a new Afrodance Soundsystem, has released its debut single 'Wena' featuring Mr Eazi, DJ Edu, and vocals from South African artist Ami Faku. The track, produced by DJ Tárico, incorporates a futuristic sound that builds on the Amapiano wave, a genre that Mr Eazi has been exploring in his latest singles. Ami Faku's soulful vocals in Xhosa add an emotional depth to the song, while Eazi's English response gives it a relatable touch.
The single is a story of two would-be lovers who never quite consummate their connection, a tragedy that can only be resolved in the glow of the dancefloor. 'Wena' is also the lead single from the upcoming mixtape 'Choplife Vol. 1: Mzansi Chronicles,' scheduled for release on May 28. The project sees the pair collaborating with a host of producers, DJs, and vocalists to create an exciting and unique project in global dance music.
ChopLife SoundSystem derives its name from the popular West African pidgin slang phrase 'chop life,' which means 'enjoy life,' along with the traditional sound systems that are the backbone of Jamaican music culture. This innovative new pan-African Soundsystem is inspired by Diplo's Major Lazer and puts a modern African twist on Jamaican soundsystem culture, incorporating genres like amapiano and afrobeats to curate the ultimate African party experience both on original studio recordings and at curated live events.
Mr Eazi is the primary vocalist on ChopLife SoundSystem recordings and also serves as its MC or 'Minister of Enjoyment' at live events, where he's joined by resident selector DJ Edu of BBC Radio 1Xtra, along with guest artists and DJs.
"I'm going back to where I started from, hosting the biggest parties at uni," says Mr Eazi. "That's how I started singing. I am looking forward to this new and fun ride, and I can't wait for all the music to start dropping and the accompanying live experience."
With a full announcement on the mixtape coming soon, 'Wena' serves as a sneak peek for something much bigger - a new movement ready to storm the dance music scene. ChopLife SoundSystem's debut single is a testament to the future of Afro-dance music, and fans can pre-order the mixtape here to be part of this exciting new journey.
