Even though Aphelele “Ma Nala” Mnyango’s latest single, Soze, is making waves on radio stations across the country, the 23-year-old songbird still often gets referred to as “Anatii’s sister”.
And while she doesn’t get offended by that, she is ready for her own musical journey.
“I don’t get offended at all, in fact, I am happy because my brother has earned respect from people and I am ready to earn mine. He has really worked hard and he inspires me.”
Ma Nala says her style of music is different to that of her rapper and producer brother. “We’re different, my sound is more alternative with a touch of Indie, Afropop, and futuristic sounds. I’m very versatile and people will get to see more in my coming project.” Ma Nala is currently working on her five-track EP due for release in 2018.
Her late father Senzo Mnyango was a radio DJ in the former Ciskei in the ‘80s and ‘90s and he loved playing music in their home. “I have fond memories of my dad playing a lot of Michael Jackson for us as children.” After high school Ma Nala received her associate of science degree in music from California College of Music. “Studying music helped me to be versatile and be able to sing in any genre and also understand the business of music,” she says.
Ma Nala’s single Soze is available for download on iTunes.