Mavo Solomon – iSiGiDiMi

Maverik Sounds proudly presents Mavo Solomon’s
debut release, iSiGiDiMi.

The literal translation of the word ‘iSiGiDiMi’, is ‘Important
Message’. Mavo Solomon explains: “When I was writing these songs, I was always
amazed at how homogeneous the music mix in our country is.

The writing
is all the same, and robs the listeners of diversity. I wanted a different sound
musically and lyrically. It is not easy capturing good ideas in a few lines of
melody and verse. Hence, the idea of a musical sound ‘worth listening to’ was
more appealing. This is my use of the word ‘Isigidimi’!” Indeed, Mavo is a
remarkable talent.

Born in Queenstown in 1975, he has obtained 3 degrees
in mathematics, mechanical engineering and energy studies. His musical and/or
writing influences are many, including BLKsonshine, Paul Simon, Richard Bona,
Jesse Harris and many more.

Mavo writes with purpose and each song contains a message
(isigidimi). His writing and raspy soft singing voice captured the hearts of
those who have discovered his music.

Meeting Zwai Bala, of TKZee fame in
Sandton in March 2006, he later got the interest of Hugh Masekela, who set up a
meeting with the talented producer, Erik Paliani (of Zamajobe’s MTV Award
nominated fame – Ndawo Yami!) Together with Erik’s ingenuity in co-writing the
bulk of the songs, Mavo was able to translate his writings to beautiful songs.

The lyrical content ranges from issues of love, presented
philosophically, rather than the literal sense (as in ‘Uthando’, and
‘Ngonaphakade’). Mavo identifies with the roots and politics of his country and
continent as described in the moving ‘Izembe’, and ‘Imbali Yethu’ and touches on
the issues of transformation in ‘Kaloku’. He is most heart-wrenching on his more
sentimental pieces on growing up (‘Ndize?’), his ode to a young love
(‘Gabisile’) and his lullaby to his son, ‘Kwedini’! Not to be weakened in
rhythm, the beat of the continent resides in his own upbeat expressions in
‘Mamelani’ and ‘Uyavutha.’

The promise of good music to come lies in the collaborate
effort of this independent record label between Mavo Solomon and the Malawian
producer and musical co-writer, Erik Paliani. The two young men have a statement
to make, as they are working on joint writing initiatives for other artists and
music related projects. More on that later!

Source: Mavo Solomon’s Website