Bongani Mohosana (born 9 June 1987) known professionally as Mörda or Murdah Bongz, is a South African DJ, record producer, singer and dancer. He is best known for being a former member of the musical band Black Motion.[1]
Mörda | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Bongani Mohosana |
| Also known as |
|
| Born | 9 June 1987 Pretoria, South Africa |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Genres | |
| Occupation(s) |
|
| Instrument(s) | Piano, keyboard, vocals |
| Years active | 2009–present |
| Labels | Asante Music |
| Formerly of | Black Motion |
| Spouse(s) | DJ Zinhle |
Early life and career edit
Bongani Mohosana was born on the 9th of June 1987 in Pretoria, South Africa.[2] He developed a passion and interest in music at a young age. He joined the church choir, where he learnt how to play musical instruments and was also involved in singing. He then developed his skills as a music composer, dancer and vocalist.[3]
In 2009, Bongani Mohosana along with Thabo Mabogwane aka Smol launched a band named Black Motion and he adopted the stage name Murdah Bongz. The duo started making music and became popular in the year 2011 after releasing their studio album Talking to the Drums.[3] Several years after the band's founding, though, both decided to pursue solo careers. Murdah Bongz then changed his stage name to Mörda.[4]
In 2022, he released his first solo debut album, Asante, which was named after his daughter.[5]
In September 2023, Mörda announced his second studio album Asante II, which was scheduled to be released on 29 September 2023.[6]
"Burning Bush" with Thakzin, Ihhashi Elimhlophe released on 8 September 2023 as album's lead single.
The album was released on 29 September 2023.[7]
Controversy edit
In December 2022, it was alleged that Mörda had taken recording studio equipment from the Black Motion business premises in December 2022. He was also accused of violently damaging a door at the recording studio, among other properties.[8]
Following the accusations, Mörda's legal representatives issued a statement stating that the equipment belongs to Spirit Motion which both Morda and Thabo Smol proportionately owned.[9]
Personal life edit
Bongani Mohosana married DJ and producer DJ Zinhle in 2022. The couple went public with their relationship in 2021, after reports revealed that they had been dating for quite some time in private before going public. The couple had their first baby daughter, Asante in September 2021.[10]
Discography edit
- Asante (2022)
- Asante II (2023)
Awards edit
South African Dance Music Awards edit
| Year | Nominee / work | Award | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Asante
|
Best Dance Album | Won |
"Mohigan Sun" featuring Oscar Mbo, Murumba Pitch
|
Best House Record | Pending |
References edit
- ^ Staff, Daily Post (16 May 2023). "Exploring The Roots Of Afro House Music". Daily Post. Archived from the original on 16 November 2023. Retrieved 20 December 2023.
- ^ "Murdah Bongz celebrates birthday, his age stuns Mzansi". savannanews.com. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ a b "MASSIVE TALENT IN ESWATINI - MURDAH BONGZ". Times of Swaziland. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ "'Thank you to everyone who embraced the change': Mörda celebrates a year going solo". timeslive.co.za. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ "Murdah Bongz drops his first project as solo act Mörda". iol.co.za. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ Mphande, Joy (8 September 2023). "Another one — Morda dedicates his second album to his daughter". TimesLIVE. Retrieved 17 September 2023.
- ^ Moloi, Atlehang (29 September 2023). "Mörda Delivers An Eclectic Sonic Experience In New Album, 'Asante II' | Slikouronlife". Slikouronlife. Retrieved 30 September 2023.
- ^ "Spirit Motion vs Bongani 'Murdah Bongz' Mohosana: Everything you need to know about the legal battle". news24. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ "'They want an apology': Morda returns Black Motion equipment". thesouthafrican.com. Retrieved 1 May 2023.
- ^ "DJ Zinhle confirms she is married to Murdah Bongz". citizen.co.za. Retrieved 1 May 2023.