A Conversation at Kunye: The Heart of Afro-Tech Culture
TheJournalistDJ.com caught up with South African DJ, producer, vocalist and sonic architect Mpho.Wav at Kunye—one of the continent’s most important stages for Afro-Tech and Afro-House. Fresh off another electrifying set, the genre-bending artist opened up about his evolution, his pioneering contribution to 3 Step, and the new chapter of his acclaimed project, Book of Wav.
“I’m All Things Music” — Who Is Mpho.Wav?
Asked to introduce himself for those who may not yet know his catalogue, Mpho.Wav doesn’t hesitate:
“I’m a musician, DJ, producer, vocalist, engineer… all things music.”
A long-time staple for DJs across South Africa, Mpho.Wav’s sound has quietly shaped dancefloors for more than a decade. From his underground roots to his rise as a respected electronic innovator, he remains grounded in constant learning and experimentation.
From Underground Origins to the Spotlight
While he acknowledges that he’s “come a long way,” Mpho.Wav still sees himself as a student of the craft.
“I still prefer to think of myself as an underground guy with so much to introduce to the people.”
2024 marked a major breakthrough as his project Book of Wave captured attention nationwide, showcasing his versatility and deep-rooted musicality.
Tracing the Birth of 3 Step
Regarded by many as one of the pioneers of 3 Step, Mpho.Wav credits his journey to key collaborators.
He recalls meeting Thakzin years ago during the Afro Funk era, a sound that would become a foundational influence:
“I felt like 3 Step was born from Afro Funk. I started learning Afro Funk, then jumped to 3 Step. Then I met Atmos Blaq… everything just connected.”
Dreaming, Doing, and the Growth of a Movement
Reflecting on his rise, Mpho.Wav admits he never imagined being where he is today:
“When you dream, you don’t know what’s going to happen… you just dream and do, dream and do.”
Today, those dreams play out on some of the biggest stages in the world, including Kunye, where he has now performed three to four times.
Kunye: A Full-Circle Moment
Standing on one of Africa’s most revered Afro-Tech platforms still overwhelms him.
“It’s been amazement, amusement, incredibility… I have no words. To be on this stage with such amazing producers and DJs—it means so much.”
Even after multiple appearances, the nerves haven’t left—proof of how much the moment means.
Witnessing 3 Step Beat Amapiano on the Charts
With artists like Jaz Worx taking 3 Step into commercial territory, Mpho.Wav beams with pride.
“I feel humbled to finally see it happen. The world is ready for new sounds. What an awesome time to be alive.”
Seeing Afro House and 3 Step surpass Amapiano on the charts is more than a victory—it’s validation for the producers who built the sound from scratch.
Looking Ahead: Book of Wav II and “Atmos Wave”
Mpho.Wav confirms major releases are on the way, including the highly anticipated second chapter of Book of Wav.
He also reveals Atmos Wav, a new collaboration with long-time creative partner Atmos Blaq:
“It’s a collaboration, it’s a duo… whatever you want to call it. We’re doing music together. It’s bigger than us. It was born from real friendship and real moments.”
The two already have a remix out with Oskido, and their debut single, “God Damn!”, is set for release soon.
“Everything on My Hard Drive Is Coming Out”
If there’s one promise Mpho.Wav makes, it’s that fans won’t have to wait long:
“So much music is coming out. So many new sounds. People must be ready to listen.”
He assures TheJournalistDJ.com that exclusives are coming:
“Trust me. Everything that’s on my hard drive is coming out real soon.”
A Message of Gratitude and Growth
Closing off, Mpho.Wav expresses deep appreciation for platforms that support the culture:
“Thank you for being there for the music and the artists. We appreciate the work. Let’s keep growing together.”
