SA: Fatso 98 releases third instalment of THE XO EFFECT EP series

The six-track project became available on digital streaming platforms on 29 May and features collaborations with Warren Justin, MDU aka TRP, Salvation Pablo, LebtoniQ and the Tembisa-based duo Deep Essentials.

Fatso 98, known for his producer tag “Sho”, has built a reputation within South Africa’s deep house scene for music that blends soulful elements with layered electronic production.

The XO EFFECT series was first launched in 2023 as a platform for the producer to explore music outside commercial and trend-driven expectations. Since then, the project has developed into an annual release centred on collaboration and experimentation within the Deep House genre.

Among the tracks featured on the new EP is ‘Ovi’, a collaboration with Deep Essentials. According to promotional material accompanying the release, the project focuses on creative freedom, musical authenticity and community-driven production.

THE XO EFFECT III arrives at a time when South African electronic music continues to gain international attention, particularly within deep house and amapiano circles. The project reflects ongoing efforts by local producers to balance evolving global sounds with the emotional and narrative traditions associated with deep house music.

Fatso 98 said the project was intended to encourage artists to remain committed to their creative identity rather than focusing solely on industry trends and streaming performance.

The producer has previously been recognised for his contribution to South Africa’s electronic music landscape and continues to position himself within the country’s contemporary deep house movement.