SA: Sizwe Alakine drops Mang Ka Pa Mang single

The song, which is available for streaming and download, comes after the release of ‘AmaVampire’.

At first glance, ‘Mang Ka Pa Mang’ appears to have repetitive lyrics. The track, however, produces new meaning beyond the first and second listens when one unpacks it and reassembles ideas. Alakine accompanies the release with visuals shot by legendary music video director, Monde Dube.

The video was shot in Mamelodi where he pays tribute to the origin of sounds created in that surburb. The track highlights a woman’s dating decisions that see her become the talk of the town. Known in the neighbourhood as one who dates just about anybody, her ‘market value’ depreciates, a sentiment iterated in Alakine’s clever soccer reference in the lines “I call her Ronaldo ‘cause now she’s a seven that used to be nine”.

In the second interpretation, Alakine is depicted as an ideal partner with his bravado, ego and masculine energy. On this track, the artist showcases his finest qualities to charm the woman of his dreams. According to the opening line, “Nna ke shapa pina madame”, he is a rock star. Alakine situates himself in his community as someone of stature and high value. In addition, Alakine states, "Tsamo butsa mang kapa mang", an invitation to anyone to confirm his claims.

The sonic environment of 'Mang Ka Pa Mang' is characterised by a meticulously layered beat. After an initial synth brass section, producers Mellow and Sleazy lead the single into a cyclical vamp accompanied by a chill and laid-back kwaito chord progression. With lush piano chord deliveries that are light and airy, Mellow and Sleazy offer the listener sensual ear candy through their style of amapiano performance. However, as the single progresses, the beat begins to become a steady and upbeat dance thump that South African dance enthusiasts can sink their teeth into, with the locking drum not too far behind. ‘Mang Ka Pa Mang’ is a song that Alakine fans will undoubtedly add to their personal playlists.