International star Mr.Dutch drops ‘Ungowami’ featuring Amapiano artist Aymos
|Published
Nigerian sensation Mr.Dutch, real name Bright Ukpabi caught the attention of millions following a string of popular releases and viral collaborations.
From joining forces with the Grammy-nominated Burna Boy in 2018 for ‘E No Finish’ to summer afro-pop Stormers like ‘Fire Down’ alongside pop heavyweight Reekado Banks and ‘Just Like That’ featuring East Africa’s finest Lava Lava; Mr. Dutch now returns with ‘Ungowami’ featuring Amapiano prince Aymos - igniting the summer season while effortlessly bridging the gap between Amapiano and afro-pop.
Bursting onto the scene in 2017 and following the development of an uplifting catalogue of sonic goodness very much in line with the trends of current afro-pop soundscapes, Mr. Dutch has stirred up some magic yet again. By seamlessly integrating elements of afro genres and adding euphonious echoes of pop fusion tones, this new offering lends itself to a unified summer experience as the warmer season approaches.
Riding the impactful wave of his previous releases, Mr.Dutch’s passion only piques more as he strikes the perfect balance of captivating cadence and recite-worthy hooks resulting in a cleverly complex track in wonderfully simple clothing. As Mr.Dutch continues to interlink classic, evergreen afro styles with pleasing, unexpected flips, his signature unruffled and unhurried delivery is one that resonates with every afro-pop lover.
Packing a punch with his playful, vibrant and energetic style, Mr.Dutch’s collaboration with soul singer-songwriter, composer, and Amapiano prince Aymos sees the unique addition of shakers bloom into the bombastic melodic passage as Aymos’ hypnotic, euphonious vocal add the finishing touches to the offering. A certified love song sure to prickle the ears of many and take up residence in the libraries of top DJs this summer, this isn’t one you’ll want to miss.
Speaking of his latest release, Mr.Dutch says, “Ungowami bridges the gap between Afro-pop and Amapiano and sees me team up with South African singer, Aymos,” he says. “It is a certified love-song. It tells the story of how far one will go for love. I wanted to deliver a vibrant take on the traditional love song. If love is a crime, I’m ready to be the most wanted.”
About Mr.Dutch
Mr.Dutch is a Nigerian afro-pop singer, songwriter and producer who bridges the gap between Africa and the world with his catchy melodies and rhythmic sounds.
His motivation stems from his sheer tenacity in excusing who he is and where he comes from. He represents not only Nigeria but Africa as a whole. Also known for his alter-ego, Afro Cyborg, the character makes an appearance in several music videos and upcoming projects. The Afro Cyborg represents the voice inside your head that offers encouragement and support; you can do and be anything you want to be.
Afro Cyborg is the sound of freedom, greatness and liberation. As afro-pop continues to dominate music styles worldwide, Mr. Dutch believes his music will educate listeners on a culture deep-rooted in West Africa’s sound and its beats with the ebb and flow of everyday life.
Mr. Dutch’s afro-pop sound retains a distinctly Nigerian identity, reflective of his upbringing, whilst fusing it with inspirations from his stay in South Africa. His music evokes a colourful afro fusion feeling, drawing inspiration from live fuji music, highlife, American funk and jazz to serenade fans worldwide.
He is the latest talent to come out of Nigerian to feature South African Amapiano stars. Having cemented his career across the world when he released his single Antidote with Solidstar and E no Finish with Burna Boy, Mr. Dutch, real name Bright Ukpabi is now taking over radio stations and topping charts from across the globe.
Why did you decide to collaborate with Aymos, you could have chosen any artist.
It was an organic collaboration. Aymos sings sorely in isiZulu and has a very indigenous sound. I love the traditional and cultural aspects of his music. I wanted to merge that with my style to create something authentic. That interpretation of love made the song authentic. Our connection was also authentic and not forced. I love to work with people that I connect with and not just have meaningless features.
How do you choose your collaborations?
I choose the collaborations on what I am trying to achieve with the music. Sometimes I want to tap into different regions or send certain messages. But all collaborations are meaningful. I don’t choose them based on their fame, growth, or success. It’s all spiritually motivated.
What inspires our music and the themes you sing about?
My music is inspired by my journey and where I am with everything in life. I sing about love, empowerment, encouragement, spirituality, and love. It's for when you are down, up, happy, celebrating, and for any point in life. But most are based on personal experiences and those close to me.
When was your big break in the music industry?
I got my big break when I did a song Antidote featuring Solidstar. Then after I did a song with Burna Boy, everything went viral. I appreciate everything because, without those features and the greatness of the song, I wouldn’t be here right now.
Please give a brief background of how you were growing up, what career you thought you would pursue, and why music.
I grew up in a family of seven children and I'm the last born. It was a big deal because you are dealing with many people who have come before you. I had to prove myself and show that it was my turn to do things differently and learn from others' mistakes. The hope is on me. It comes with a lot of pressure and expectations to win everything and be number one. I come from a Christian home, I was in the choir from the age of seven years old.
I play drums and sing in the choir. I always love the entertainment side of the church. I always felt fulfilled. I don’t think there’s any other career path I would have taken besides being a musician. I always preached and sang even when playing with friends. I studied IT but I still had a love for music. We didn’t have a lot of musicians in my family, but I stood out. I knew from a young age but didn’t know how I would go about it.
What was the one life-changing moment that set the tone for your career?
The day I opened a concert for Wizkid stands out for me in Johannesburg. It was a great crowd. To open for a big star meant a lot to me. But I feel gifted being able to translate my feeling through my music.
Where do you get your fashion sense?
My style is very simple. I know people can't help to look at me twice because it's simple but unique. I can manipulate looks, styles, and cultures and bring them together in one look. This is who I am; simple but unique, it’s the Dutch level.
Who are your fashion icons?
First and foremost, Tyler The Creator’s self-expression is magical. That is me. Kanye West, Andre 3000, and the late Virgil Abloh. These are creative but simple looks. But top of my list is Tyler The Creator. I love Burna Boy’s ability to try different styles and not conform to gender-style norms.
Who are your music icons and why?
Michael Jackson and Fela Kuti have always been at the top of my list. I have a long list of people I love. But In South Africa, Oskido takes the crown even at this mature age. Chief Osadebe is also my icon and I hold the music dear to my heart.”
Who else in South Africa would you like to work with?
“I love Murumba Pitch. I love Msaki and I would like DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small to produce the work. These people’s music is soulful and expressive. The sound is African and soulful at the same time. Music needs to have soul, depth, and be spiritual and I hope to do that soon.
‘Ungowami’ is out on streaming platforms now.