After a 30-year hiatus, Platform One, one of South Africa’s most popular musical trios, is set to make a comeback with a new album. The group, which consists of Nani Ntengo, Sonto Dladla, and Neli Gwala, first gained popularity in the 1990s with their Afro-pop songs that were frequently played at weddings and family gatherings.
The trio’s well-received debut song, “Isencane,” remains one of their most popular hits and continues to be played at weddings to this day. In an exclusive interview, the group revealed that their love for music began in choirs, where they met with Pure Gold and established a musical relationship that would eventually lead to their success.
Platform One’s comeback is not without its challenges, however. Despite the changing music industry, the group plans to stick to their original sound and cultural identity. They believe that their music is a powerful tool for marginalized communities to express their unique identities and advocate for social change.
“We will stick to our Afro-pop genre,” said the group. “For us, the choice of our musical genre is driven mostly by our social identity, and that extends to cultural context. In this way, we believe we’ll extend the purpose of music, at least for us, which remains a powerful tool for marginalized communities to express their unique identities and advocate for social change.”
Despite the challenges of returning to the music industry after a long absence, Platform One remains optimistic about their future. They plan to apply old lessons to the present and always represent the group professionally.
During their comeback, the group has expressed a desire to work with other musicians, including Jah Prayzah and Runtown. Their newest album, a collaboration with Pure Gold, is set for release in December 2023.
In 2022, Platform One released two hits, “Jabula Jabula” and “Emseleni,” staying true to their original sound. The group has already won an award at the InterContinental Music Awards and is set to collect it next year. They are also booked and busy with performances scheduled for 2024 in London.
Fans of Platform One can expect the same Afro-pop sound that they fell in love with over 30 years ago. The group’s return is highly anticipated, and their new album is sure to be a hit with old and new fans alike.