Choplife Soundsystem, a collaboration between DJ Edu and Mr Eazi, has unveiled their debut project titled ‘Choplife Vol1 – Mzansi Chronicles‘ under Choplife Limited/emPawa Africa. This release showcases a fusion of Afrodance music and takes the listeners on a journey between Capetown and Johannesburg, South Africa, where the tracks were recorded between 2022 and 2023. The mixtape features some of the most promising talents from the region, delving into the vibrant South African club scene.
With 14 tracks, ‘Choplife Vol. 1 – Mzansi Chronicles‘ provides an immersive experience of the pulsating music scene in South Africa. Notable artists featured on the mixtape include Focalistic and Anaati on the track “By Force,” as well as Ami Faku, Moonchild Sanelly, Major League DJs, Mellow and Sleazy, Nkosazana Daughter, 2woshort, Stompiiey, Mo-T, and Aymos on the track “Ziwa La.”
Furthermore, this project serves as an official introduction to Choplife Soundsystem, a name derived from West African pidgin slang that signifies “enjoy life.” The primary focus of Choplife Soundsystem is to create music that evokes happiness, wellness, and enjoyment, while promoting positive and carefree vibes through their music and events.
Mr Eazi emphasizes the significance of this project, stating, “This is not just a side project, this is a serious project.” The production for ‘Chop Life, Vol. 1 – Mzansi Chronicles’ is largely handled by DJ Tárico from Mozambique, renowned for his 2021 hit “Yaba Buluku” featuring Burna Boy. Additional contributions come from South African producers such as Mellow & Sleazy, Ghetto Boy, Milan Rendall, LuuDaDeejay, Soul Jam, and Mathondos, along with Nigeria’s Type A.
The lead single from the project, titled “Wena,” showcases the captivating vocals of South African singer Ami Faku, known for her high streaming numbers. The song features a duet with Mr Eazi in the Xhosa language, narrating a tale of potential lovers who never fully consummate their connection, a story that can only find resolution on the dancefloor.
Another standout on the mixtape is Nkosazana Daughter, an exceptional new voice from South Africa, whose rich and enchanting tones grace the tracks “Die For You” and “Indaba,” imbuing them with an otherworldly atmosphere.
Rappers 2woshort and Stompiiey bring their undeniable swagger to tracks like “Big Boy” and “No Condom.” “Tear Chain” and the Focalistic-assisted “By Force” are anthems that fill the room, serving as personal manifestos where Mr Eazi fearlessly expresses his vision for 2023 and beyond.
While ‘Choplife, Vol. 1′ predominantly focuses on the Amapiano genre, future installments of the mixtape series will explore the diverse landscape of African club and party music.
Mr Eazi shares his excitement for the creative process, saying, “I like the idea of going to a new place for 30 days and making a project.”
Listeners can connect with Mr Eazi and Choplife Soundsystem during the upcoming ChopLife pop-up tour this summer, making stops in Barcelona (July 7), Amsterdam (July 8), London (July 14), and Paris (July 16), as well as appearances at the Afrobeats Festival in Berlin (August 5) and Stockholm’s Kulturfestival in Sweden (August 18).