Future Sound of Mzansi beckons viewers to explore the rich and diverse sonic landscapes of South Africa’s electronic music scene. Divided into three parts, the documentary delves into the musical cultures of Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and the township of Atteridgeville, among others. Every section of the documentary sheds light on various aspects of Mzansi, colloquially known as South Africa, exploring motivations, production methods, music industry, and the unique ways in which the music is experienced.
The film kicks off in Durban, where every household seems to resonate with music. The rhythmic energy of the people, the love for dance, and the healing power of music create a distinctive atmosphere in the city. The documentary explores the music genre, qgom, which stands as a musical emblem of Durban, commercial house music with a distinct cultural fusion of kwaito, electro, and house. It reveals a different facet of the South African music scene, a direct-to-people approach in Johannesburg, and the distinctive Shangaan style of Soweto that accentuates the interconnectedness of music and movement.
Moving on to Cape Town, the narrative of the second part revolves around the influential role of “African Dope” in the city’s electronic music history. Unlike Johannesburg, Cape Town’s electronic scene operates underground, fueled by a dynamic mix of local musicians and unconventional industry dynamics. Khayelitsha emerges as a hub of creativity, where Yolanda, a female musician, challenges the conventional notions of house music prevalent in Durban and Johannesburg. This part also touches upon the divides that the electronic music scene in South Africa bears. The lingering legacy of apartheid persists, manifesting in a divide between “white music for whities” and “black music for black people.” The documentary captures this struggle, underscoring the need for a more inclusive, unified approach to breaking down the barriers of collaboration.
The final part shifts its focus to Atteridgeville, west of Pretoria, and sheds light on DJ Mujava and his iconic “Township Funk.” It also explores the challenges faced by Mujava and numerous artists, detailing the complexities they encounter in gaining recognition both within South Africa and on the global stage.
