From his humble beginnings as a budding rapper, to being a multi-award-winning music producer and founder of M Beats Limited, DJ Mzenga Man has proven his enduring influence on Zambia’s music scene. This article draws upon an intimate interview with the renowned artist to paint a comprehensive and engaging biography of his life and career.
Early Life and Education
Born Mzenga Mwale on November 21st, the artist was raised primarily in Lusaka, and partially in Eastern Province, Zambia. Mzenga grew up in a family of four, with one sister, Chikondi Mwale, and two brothers, Elijah and Stephen Mwale – the latter known as Stevo in the music industry.
Both his parents contributed significantly to shaping Mzenga’s life. His father, a reverend in the Reformed Church in Zambia, instilled in him a deep appreciation for music, teaching him how to play the piano and guiding him in choral singing.
His mother, a deputy head at a secondary school, imparted the importance of education. Consequently, Mzenga pursued his education fervently, starting from Harry Mwanga and Chamba Valley for his primary education, followed by Katete Boarding and Chizongwe Technical for his secondary education.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Cavendish University and later his MBA from the University of Oxford.
The Genesis of DJ Mzenga Man
“Funny enough my dreams were evolving from wanting to be an electric engineer to police man but ended up a banker and later a Music Mogul.”
DJ Mzenga Man
Beginning his musical journey in 2008 as a rapper, DJ Mzenga Man’s passion quickly evolved towards music production. He founded M. Beats Limited in 2009, initially known as M Beats Generation Music.
By 2012, he was appointed Head of Production for Zambia’s largest label at the time, XYZ Ent. In this role, he juggled his responsibilities between XYZ Ent and his own imprint, producing countless award-winning singles and albums for artists such as Slapdee, Bobby East, Petersen, Stevo, and Cleo Ice Queen, to name just a few.
His dedication to the music scene has earned him the title of ‘King of Cyphers.’ Over a decade, he has consistently produced cyphers featuring Zambia’s greatest rappers each year, creating a platform for emerging talent.
DJ Mzenga Man: Awards and Recognition
The dedication and hard work of DJ Mzenga Man have not gone unnoticed. He has been decorated with multiple awards:
- Best Music Producer of The Year 2016 – Mosi Zambia Music Awards.
- Best Producer of The Year 2015 – Hone FM radio.
- Best DJ Of The Year – Nexus Music End Of Year Awards.
- Nominated for Best Sound Producer of The Year – 2022 Sun FM Kwacha Music Awards.
“Thanks for the love and support you have continuously shown me for over a decade.”
DJ Mzenga Man
Empowering Young Artists
DJ Mzenga Man has always been a strong advocate for nurturing and promoting young artists. Each year, he features upcoming rappers on his cyphers, offering them a significant platform to showcase their talents. Artists such as Willz, Koby, Drifta Trek, King Illest, Nez Long, Fly J, Dizmo, and Natasha Chansa are just a few names that have been highlighted in his projects.
Recognizing the financial barriers faced by emerging artists, DJ Mzenga Man has organized several competitions and offered several packages at M Beats Entertainment Studio to assist less privileged artists. These packages are primarily aimed at producing and promoting music at a very low cost for these rising stars.
The Man Behind the Music
Away from the studio and stage, DJ Mzenga Man leads a private life. He has been happily married for eight years.
He maintains a close-knit relationship with his family, whom he describes as God-fearing and strict. His parents are still married and alive, with his father now running a small business in Katete after retiring from his pastoral duties.
Mzenga is passionate about his appearance. His favorite clothing is his collection of over 135 custom-made black T-shirts. He takes care of his skin with Nivea products and has a weekly barber appointment at home.
Future Ambitions
DJ Mzenga Man aspires to establish and own the most successful commercial audio production, distribution, promotion, and management company in Central Africa, and eventually, the world. His vision includes advocating for a functional royalty payment system for artists in the Zambian music industry.
FAQs
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How did DJ Mzenga Man start his career in music?
He started his musical journey in 2008 as a rapper but quickly transitioned into music production.
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What are some of DJ Mzenga Man’s most notable works?
His production of Slapdee’s album in 2013, titled ‘The Business,’ was a major milestone that established him as a renowned music producer.
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What does DJ Mzenga Man do to support upcoming artists?
He features them in his yearly cyphers and offers several packages at M Beats Entertainment Studio to help less privileged artists.
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What’s the story behind his stage name?
The name was inspired during his high school days when he used to play the keyboard for his friends as they rapped live in the school hall.
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What is DJ Mzenga Man’s vision for the future of the Zambian music industry?
He aims to establish a functional royalty payment system for artists in the Zambian music industry.
