It has been three years since Major Lazer released music is the weapon, which was to be their last album. (But not really.) In fact, Major Lazer released a few singles in the years that followed, including “Koo Koo Fun” featuring Major League Djz, Tiwa Savage and DJ Maphorisa. Upon its release in 2022, little did we know it was actually the lead single from their upcoming album, a joint venture with Major League Djz, Piano Republic.
The two groups released another single earlier this month, “Designer”, featuring Joeboy, and another today, “Mamgobhozi”, featuring Brenda Fassie, ahead of the official announcement that Piano Republic officially releases next week, March 24.
“Brenda Fassie was not only an icon, but inspired many black South Africans to be themselves,” Major League Djz said in a collective statement. “Her catalog of music delighted the many South Africans who filled the stadiums to see her perform and is a true reflection of South African history.”
The first new album from Major Lazer — the American trio of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Ape Drums — in three years, Piano Republic also features guest appearances from Ty Dolla $ign, Afrobeats stars Tiwa Savage and Joeboy and South African talent such as DJ Maphorisa, Tyla, LuuDaDeejay, Msaki, Gaba Cannal and Russell Zuma. The result is an exciting and unprecedented international showcase for pianosthe genre of dance music that has exploded out of South African townships and onto the world stage over the past three years.
Listen to “Mamgobhozi” below and pre-order/pre-add the album HERE.
