Paradise Sound System continues to deliver fresh, independent sounds from South Africa – this time through the soulful, indie-flecked sounds of Bongi Mvuyana. With its emotional plea for the return of love “One Day” is a remarkably apt ballad for the current times while “Somebody Loves You” similarly puts the importance of love centrestage on a track that reveals Bongi’s expansive musical hand. Born in KwaZulu-Natal’s capital city of Pietermaritzburg, Bongi has been working on her songwriting and performing craft for the past six years. Effortlessly fusing soul, jazz, folk and even rock into a compelling whole, Bongi first gave notice of her considerable talent in 2014 with the release of her debut single “I Wonder”. Charting on South African national radio station, Metro FM, as well as on four Nigerian radio stations, the single spotlighted Bongi’s ability to convey universal emotions through her lyrics and affecting voice. “I Wonder” was followed by “Gold” which charted on KwaZulu-Natal station, Vuma FM, and then “Sweet Love” which earned playlisting across Africa with its sound, influenced by the Zulu folk music form, Maskandi. Another single,Sizwile, was remixed by renowned Afro House producer, Da Capo, and made it into the DJ sets of global stars like Black Coffee and Louie – underscoring Bongi’s versatility as an artist. Live, Bongi is a compelling performer, having polished her sets through appearances at a range of high-profile events and platforms including SABC 2’s Afro Café and Morning Live, Moshito Music Conference, and the Road to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz. The release of Bongi delivers a fresh, alternative soul sound to discerning music lovers the world over.