BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
LAVUMISA– Eswatini-born musician Mncedisi Mhlanga, popularly known as Da Moon, is steadily rising in South Africa’s thriving Amapiano scene.
Now based in Johannesburg, the artist is breaking into an industry largely dominated by South African talent, while proudly representing his roots in Eswatini, where his musical journey began.
Born and raised in Lavumisa, Da Moon grew up in a family deeply connected to music. His father, Scelo Mhlanga, was a respected artist, and several of his cousins — including Benson, Earl Earn Dee, B.I.G., and Wilton — were also involved in the industry.
“Music was always around me,” he explains. “My father and my cousins were the first artists I looked up to. They inspired everything I’m doing now.”
Discovering Amapiano
Although music was always part of his life, Da Moon’s career took a major turn when he was introduced to Amapiano — the genre that has taken over South African dance floors and international playlists.
His breakthrough came through DJ Blaq Venomous S.A from Ophongolo, who gave him his first opportunity to perform in South Africa.
“Everything started with him,” says Da Moon. “He introduced me to Amapiano and opened doors for me in this industry. I owe a lot to him.”
From there, Da Moon began working with some of the genre’s most influential producers and artists, including Blaq Major and Bless The Gentleman, both strong forces in shaping the Amapiano sound.
The Viral Hit: My Dululu
Da Moon’s rise gained momentum with the release of “My Dululu”, a collaboration with Golden Heart SK and Bless The Gentleman. The track became a viral hit, amassing over 400,000 views on YouTube and pushing Da Moon into wider recognition.
“My Dululu means so much to me,” he says. “It was a dream come true to work with these legends. I’ve always wanted to collaborate with South Africa’s top Amapiano artists — and by God’s grace, it happened.”
Struggle for Recognition at Home
Despite his growing success, Da Moon says many people in Eswatini still don’t realize he is Swazi, which has been a source of frustration.
“Here in South Africa, people know who I am. But in Eswatini, many still assume I’m South African,” he explains. “I’m doing this for Eswatini. I want people back home to recognize me as one of their own.”
To change this, he makes sure the Eswatini flag is visible in his music videos and social media.
“I always fly the flag. Every post, every video — the flag is there. I want people to know where I come from. I’m not just doing this for myself, but to show the world that Eswatini has talent too.”
The Call for Support in Eswatini
Da Moon believes that Eswatini’s artists have the talent — but lack the support that South African musicians receive.
“In South Africa, artists are supported by the people and by the industry. In Eswatini, we have the talent, but we need more support if we want to grow,” he says.
He hopes that one day Eswatini’s music industry will be strong enough to push local artists onto the global stage.
“If the people of Eswatini support us the way South Africans support their own artists, we can put Eswatini on the map. It’s not just about me — it’s about all of us.”
What’s Next for Da Moon
Da Moon is currently working on several new projects, including a love song titled “Sengikhathele”, featuring Golden Heart SK and Charlotte Lyf, set for release in November. He is also collaborating with Blaq Major on a track titled “Zinyanya Zam”, already creating buzz in the Amapiano scene.
“I’m not doing this for me alone,” he says. “I’m doing it for Eswatini. I want my country to be proud. I’m always working for the flag.”
A Rising Voice for Eswatini Music
Although still early in his journey, Da Moon’s talent, persistence, and commitment to representing Eswatini have already made him one of the country’s most promising exports in the Amapiano genre.
“No matter where I go, I will always represent Eswatini,” he says. “The world is going to know where I come from. Eswatini music is rising — and I’m just one of many who are pushing it forward.”
(Courtesy Pic)
