Music icon Ringo Madlingozi has made a U-turn with the long-awaited release of his consolidated back catalogue on digital platforms for the first time.
Ringo Madlingozi, an award-winning vocalist and songwriter, said the deal that would see his 12 albums on digital platforms will also include music yet to be released in 2024.
The deal with Sony Music Entertainment was signed in a champagne-popping celebration on Thursday, as the parties look forward to new sounds by Ringo Madlingozi.
The music icon credited Sean Watson, Sony Music Africa managing director, for helping him find his feet again in the music industry.
Madlingozi started his music career with Watson while still signed with EMI, which was sold in 2018.
“It was as if he had read my mind because, at the time, I was thinking about going back to music in an even deeper way, and I was trying to figure out how best to do that,” Madlangozi said.
“I realised that while there are many positives to the independent route, in the world in which we live it is important to have some muscle behind your music, and I saw no other company to do that with than Sony.”
The back catalogue will include award-winning works, multi-platinum selling work, and Madlingozi’s most-loved records of all time.
This includes his debut album in 1996 titled Vukani, Into Yam in 1999, and the 2006 Ndim Lo, among others.
He said people who were young when he peaked would have time to unearth his sound in the back catalogue, while those who have always enjoyed his music can relive the moments.
“The sound of my music is formed around the ukuxhentsa [traditional dance style of isiXhosa-speaking people] rhythms and, to me, it feels like the pulsation of the heart.
“It can be a fast heartbeat or a slow one but, in the end, my music is an emotional heartbeat that anyone can connect to.
“I am excited to share my earlier record again and the new music that we are starting to work on,” said Madlingozi.
Watson said he is excited that the duo will once again work on creating the best sounds.
“I’m honoured that he chose to bring such a great collection of exceptional music to his new home at Sony,” said Watson.
The back catalogue is expected to be released on all digital and streaming platforms on September 15, ahead of the heritage week.
Follow @SundayWorldZA on Twitter and @sundayworldza on Instagram, or like our Facebook Page, Sunday World, by clicking here for the latest breaking news in South Africa.
