It’s been three years since Major Lazer released Music Is The Weapon, what was supposed to be their final album. (But not really.) In fact, Major Lazer has released a few singles in the years since, including “Koo Koo Fun” with Major League Djz, Tiwa Savage, and DJ Maphorisa. Little did we know when it was released in 2022 that it was actually the first single from their next album, a joint venture with Major League Djz, Piano Republik.
The two groups released another single earlier this month, “Designer,” with Joeboy, and another today, “Mamgobhozi,” with Brenda Fassie, ahead of the official announcement that Piano Republik is officially out next week, March 24.
“Brenda Fassie was not only an icon, but she inspired many black South Africans to be their authentic selves,” Major League Djz said, in a collective statement. “Her music catalog brought joy to the many South Africans that filled stadiums to see her perform and is a true reflection of South African history.”
The first new album release from Major Lazer — the U.S. based trio of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Ape Drums — in three years, Piano Republik also features appearances from Ty Dolla $ign, afrobeats stars Tiwa Savage and Joeboy and South African talent including DJ Maphorisa, Tyla, LuuDaDeejay, Msaki, Gaba Cannal and Russell Zuma. The result is a thrilling and unprecedented international showcase for amapiano, the dance music genre that has exploded out of South Africa’s townships and onto the world stage over the last three years.
Listen to “Mamgobhozi” below and pre-order/pre-add the album HERE.