Interview: @Rich_Mahog Shines The Light On Unsigned South African Hip-Hop and R&B Talent In New EP

South Africa’s R&B scene is buzzing with talented artists dropping projects and singles consistently. In his new EP, ‘Mahogany Deluxe’,  South African entertainment key player Richard Mahogany (aka Rich Mahog) gathers some of the finest emerging R&B and hip-hop artists from South Africa such as Nanette, Bonokhule, HennyBeLit, BonoKuhle alongside established acts like Maggz and Thabsie. He worked with producers Lunatik, HennyBeLit and Nator. 

The project is being marketed as “90s’ R&B, 90% unsigned talent, 90% under the age of 22”, which Rich Mahog expanded on: “In my opinion, 90s’ R&B is the best era for music in general. I’ve always been passionate about unearthing fresh young talent because I believe this country has a lot of talent that doesn’t see the light because of greed and gatekeepers. Having all these young people on a tape that is made up of mature music is just testament to their versatility and even more reason why they should be given an ear. They really can do anything they set their minds on.”

Notably, HennyBeLit, who recently appeared on Yanga Chief’s single ‘Benjamins’ and released his EP ‘Xhosa Rockstar’, is featured in three songs on the EP. “HennyBeLit is a marvel to work with. He gets it first time and he’s a real prospect for the future as his time has come as both a producer and phenomenal rapper and vocalist,” says Rich Mahog. 

HennyBeLit opens the EP with a catchy a capella intro titled ‘Friends’ where he sings about the dangers bad friends can cause over hums with finger snaps for snares. The song sets the tone for a cocktail of diverse R&B songs that take inspiration from the 90s but maintains a modern accent. Smooth raps are provided by the likes of Landrose, Maggz and Maglera Doe Boy who delivers his over an airy instrumental anchored by amapiano’s log drum.  

‘Mahogany Deluxe EP’ is released through Rich Mahog’s stable 1990 Records and is jointly executive-produced by Richard himself alongside Don Bunji and Lee Global. “I co-wrote and produced all of the music from start to finish while Lee Global co-produced and Don Bunji who’s also a rapper provided his expertise and resources,” he says. 

Richard has built his brand by being highly influential in the entertainment industry, often providing creative direction to major names in the game. He is most noted for working with the likes of AKA as the executive producer for both The Braai Show and The Orchestra On The Square which saw 10 000 attendees in Pretoria. 

He also worked alongside Yanga Chief to release his debut hit track ‘Awuth Yam Remix’ and discovered Lunatik and Nanette as new artists on the come-up. 

To add to the list of projects he’s worked on creatively, Richard recently saw the release of “16 V: Doctor Khumalo Untold” which is a four part documentary on the life of legendary soccer player Doctor Khumalo which aired on DSTV’s Mzansi Magic.

Stream ‘Mahogany Deluxe EP’ below: