South African multi-award winning singer-songwriter Bongeziwe Mabandla, intricately challenges the status quo between emotion and sonic landscape, collaborating with minimalist internationally renowned music producer and composer Henrik Schwarz, who’s remixed for international acts such as Coldplay, Mary J Blige, Stevie Wonder, and Jackson 5 to name a few; to release an energetic Techno House remix of the soulful hit single “sisahleleleni”- taken from his critically acclaimed album AmaXesha.
Listen to “sisahleleleni (Henrik Schwarz remix)” here: https://platoon.lnk.to/sisahleleleni-henrik-schwarz
Following the Ntokzin Amapiano remix of “sisahleleleni”, Henrik Schwarz, known for maintained balance between Electronic, Classical and Jazz music within his production discourse, carries an eclectic uptempo blend of Techno House with EDM and Dubstep undertones, boldly challenging the contrasting emotive, slow-paced, heartfelt original composition, creating an interesting dynamic of the “sisahleleleni’s”sonic backdrop by evoking a vibrant feeling to an otherwise emotive sombre ballad.
“Why did I put myself through this when there was a door?” asks Bongeziwe in the core lyrical scope of the song which explores not only the tumultuous woes that challenge romantic relationships but other real-life situations, where despite the option to break free from a toxic cycle, a sense of obligation compels you to further entangle yourself in contemptuous toxicity. Thematically, Bongeziwe wrestles with power dynamics, unrequited feelings, closure, comfort, and the daunting process of letting go.
“I have to say this is one of my favourite remixes to date. I feel it’s very special. It took the song to another world and was reimagined in such an interesting way. I wrote this song about change and finding your inner voice, and the remix seems to emphasise that message in such an aggressive way. I’m very lucky to have worked with Henrik on this song, and I hope we do more work together because I believe it’s a winning formula,” says Bongeziwe.
“sisahleleleni (Henrik Schwarz remix)” compliments a season of decorated success for Mabandla who celebrates his February/March sold out international tour performing in the US, UK and Europe regions respectively while earning his first-ever Metro FM nomination nod under the Best African Traditional Pop category. Taking to his social media account to campaign for the award, Bongeziwe urges his listeners to SMS to *120*457870#, select 13 on the voting menu thereafter, select 5 to vote for AmaXesha to win the coveted award.
The Henrik Schwarz remix of “sisahleleleni” serves as the second installment of an upcoming body of reimagined songs which broaden the creative scope, sonic narrative and experience of one of the most beloved records in the AmaXesha album. Be sure to add “sisahleleleni (Henrik Schwarz remix)” to your music playlists; Vote for AmaXesha as Best African Traditional Pop album, request the single on your favourite radio stations and connect with Bongeziwe Mabandla and Henrik Schwarz for more music news
