Township Counsellor: A Review of Ma-E's Debut Album
` If you are a fan of South African hip hop, you might have heard of Ma-E, one of the pioneers and legends of the genre. He is best known for being a member of the influential group Teargas, as well as for founding his own label Cashtime Life. In 2016, he released his first solo album, Township Counsellor, which was a highly anticipated and critically acclaimed project. In this article, we will review this album and explore its background, content, reception, and impact. `Introduction
If you are a fan of South African hip hop, you might have heard of Ma-E, one of the pioneers and legends of the genre. He is best known for being a member of the influential group Teargas, as well as for founding his own label Cashtime Life. In 2016, he released his first solo album, Township Counsellor, which was a highly anticipated and critically acclaimed project. In this article, we will review this album and explore its background, content, reception, and impact.
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` Who is Ma-E? Ma-E, whose real name is Ezee Hanabe, was born in Soweto in 1984. He started rapping at an early age and formed a group called Glitz Gang with K.O., Ntukza, and Bantu Holomisa in 2004. The group later changed its name to Teargas and became one of the most successful and influential hip hop acts in South Africa. They released five albums between 2006 and 2012, winning several awards and nominations. Ma-E was known for his inspirational lyrics and signature flow that blended English and various South African languages. He also ventured into business and fashion, launching his own clothing line called Ghanda Ghanda. In 2014, he announced his departure from Teargas and his intention to pursue a solo career. `Who is Ma-E?
Ma-E, whose real name is Ezee Hanabe, was born in Soweto in 1984. He started rapping at an early age and formed a group called Glitz Gang with K.O., Ntukza, and Bantu Holomisa in 2004. The group later changed its name to Teargas and became one of the most successful and influential hip hop acts in South Africa. They released five albums between 2006 and 2012, winning several awards and nominations. Ma-E was known for his inspirational lyrics and signature flow that blended English and various South African languages. He also ventured into business and fashion, launching his own clothing line called Ghanda Ghanda. In 2014, he announced his departure from Teargas and his intention to pursue a solo career.` What is Cashtime Life? Cashtime Life is an independent record label that was founded by K.O. and Ma-E in 2011. The label aimed to promote young and talented artists in the South African hip hop scene, as well as to create a unique and vibrant sound for the local market. Some of the artists that were signed to Cashtime Life include Kid X, Moozlie, Masandi, and DJ Vigilante. The label also released several hit singles and albums, such as K.O.'s Skanda Republic (2014) and Ma-E's Township Counsellor (2016). However, in 2018, Cashtime Life announced its closure, citing various challenges and difficulties in the music industry. `What is Cashtime Life?
Cashtime Life is an independent record label that was founded by K.O. and Ma-E in 2011. The label aimed to promote young and talented artists in the South African hip hop scene, as well as to create a unique and vibrant sound for the local market. Some of the artists that were signed to Cashtime Life include Kid X, Moozlie, Masandi, and DJ Vigilante. The label also released several hit singles and albums, such as K.O.'s Skanda Republic (2014) and Ma-E's Township Counsellor (2016). However, in 2018, Cashtime Life announced its closure, citing various challenges and difficulties in the music industry.` What is the meaning of Township Counsellor? According to Ma-E, the title of his album Township Counsellor reflects his role and identity as a rapper who inspires and motivates his fans and listeners with his music. He said that he wanted to share his experiences and wisdom with the people who come from the same background as him, and to show them that they can achieve their dreams despite the hardships and obstacles they face. He also said that he wanted to pay homage to his roots and culture, and to celebrate the diversity and beauty of South Africa. `What is the meaning of Township Counsellor?
According to Ma-E, the title of his album Township Counsellor reflects his role and identity as a rapper who inspires and motivates his fans and listeners with his music. He said that he wanted to share his experiences and wisdom with the people who come from the same background as him, and to show them that they can achieve their dreams despite the hardships and obstacles they face. He also said that he wanted to pay homage to his roots and culture, and to celebrate the diversity and beauty of South Africa.` What are the songs on the album? Township Counsellor consists of 15 tracks, with a total duration of 57 minutes. The tracklist is as follows: 1. Siyaz'philela 2. On My Way (feat. Pro) 3. Ringa 4. Hlasela 5. Kingpin 6. Ke Summer (feat. DJ Capital & Maggz) 7. Lie 2 Me (feat. AKA) 8. Wena (feat. Masandi) 9. Uyang'chaza 10. Blame Nobody 11. Tse Blind (feat. Kid X & Moozlie) 12. Ok'salayo (feat. Emtee) 13. Ubzukuzuku 14. Uyangizwa 15. Ugogo `What are the songs on the album?
Township Counsellor consists of 15 tracks, with a total duration of 57 minutes. The tracklist is as follows:Siyaz'philela
On My Way (feat. Pro)
Ringa
Hlasela
Kingpin
Ke Summer (feat. DJ Capital & Maggz)
Lie 2 Me (feat. AKA)
Wena (feat. Masandi)
Uyang'chaza
Blame Nobody
Tse Blind (feat. Kid X & Moozlie)
Ok'salayo (feat. Emtee)
Ubzukuzuku
Uyangizwa
Ugogo
` What are the themes and messages of the album? The album covers various themes and messages that relate to Ma-E's personal and professional journey, as well as to the social and cultural context of South Africa. Some of the themes and messages include: - The township lifestyle: Ma-E celebrates and embraces his roots and identity as a product of the township, a term that refers to the urban areas that were reserved for non-white residents during apartheid. He showcases the challenges, opportunities, joys, and struggles of living in the township, and how it shaped his character and vision. He also pays tribute to the people who influenced and supported him along the way, such as his family, friends, mentors, and fans. - Social issues: Ma-E addresses some of the pressing issues that affect his community and country, such as poverty, crime, violence, corruption, unemployment, education, health, and politics. He uses his music as a platform to raise awareness, voice his opinions, and inspire change. He also encourages his listeners to be responsible, resilient, and hopeful in the face of adversity. - Relationships: Ma-E explores the dynamics and complexities of various relationships in his life, such as romantic, platonic, familial, and professional. He expresses his feelings of love, trust, loyalty, betrayal, gratitude, and regret. He also reflects on his past and present experiences with different partners, friends, colleagues, and rivals. - The struggle for success: Ma-E narrates his journey from being an aspiring rapper to becoming a successful artist and entrepreneur. He shares his challenges, achievements, failures, and lessons learned along the way. He also reveals his goals, dreams, ambitions, and motivations for the future. He also acknowledges his role models, mentors, peers, and competitors in the music industry. What are the features and collaborations on the album? The album features a number of prominent and talented artists from the South African hip hop scene, as well as some newcomers and rising stars. Some of the features and collaborations include: - Pro: The late rapper and producer who was a close friend and mentor to Ma-E. He appears on the track "On My Way", which is a tribute to his legacy and influence. - AKA: The award-winning rapper who is one of the biggest names in South African hip hop. He appears on the hit single "Lie 2 Me", which is a catchy song about trust issues in relationships. - Emtee: The young rapper who rose to fame with his debut album Avery in 2015. He appears on the track "Ok'salayo", which is a motivational song about overcoming obstacles and pursuing one's dreams. - Kid X: The former Cashtime Life artist who is known for his versatile style and lyrical skills. He appears on the track "Tse Blind", which is a collaboration with Moozlie, another former Cashtime Life artist who is now a rapper and TV presenter. The song is a playful and upbeat track about having fun and enjoying life. - Masandi: The singer and songwriter who is signed to Cashtime Life. He appears on two tracks on the album: "Wena", which is a romantic song about expressing one's feelings for a partner; and "Ugogo", which is an emotional song about Ma-E's grandmother who passed away. What are the production and sound quality of the album? The album boasts of high-quality production and sound that showcase Ma-E's versatility and creativity as an artist. The album features various producers who contributed to the diverse sound and style of the album. Some of the producers include: - AirDee: The producer who worked on four tracks on the album: "Siyaz'philela", "Ringa", "Uyang'chaza", and "Ubzukuzuku". He is known for his signature sound that blends trap beats with traditional South African elements. - K.O: The co-founder of Cashtime Life who worked on three tracks on the album: "Hlasela", "Kingpin", and "Blame Nobody". He is known for his skanda rap style that fuses kwaito with hip hop. - Lunatik Beatz: The producer who worked on two tracks on the album: "Ke Summer" and "Tse Blind". He is known for his catchy hooks and melodies that create a party vibe. - Biz Boy: The producer who worked on two tracks on the album: "On My Way" and "Ok'salayo". He is known for his smooth R&B beats that complement Ma-E's rap flow. - AKA: The rapper who also produced one track on the album: "Lie 2 Me". He is known for his versatile production skills that range from pop to hip hop. The sound quality of the album is crisp and clear, with balanced levels of vocals and instruments. The album also features various sound effects and samples that add to the atmosphere and mood of the songs. The album is well-mixed and mastered, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. `What are the production and sound quality of the album?
The album boasts of high-quality production and sound that showcase Ma-E's versatility and creativity as an artist. The album features various producers who contributed to the diverse sound and style of the album. Some of the producers include:AirDee: The producer who worked on four tracks on the album: "Siyaz'philela", "Ringa", "Uyang'chaza", and "Ubzukuzuku". He is known for his signature sound that blends trap beats with traditional South African elements.
K.O: The co-founder of Cashtime Life who worked on three tracks on the album: "Hlasela", "Kingpin", and "Blame Nobody". He is known for his skanda rap style that fuses kwaito with hip hop.
Lunatik Beatz: The producer who worked on two tracks on the album: "Ke Summer" and "Tse Blind". He is known for his catchy hooks and melodies that create a party vibe.
Biz Boy: The producer who worked on two tracks on the album: "On My Way" and "Ok'salayo". He is known for his smooth R&B beats that complement Ma-E's rap flow.
AKA: The rapper who also produced one track on the album: "Lie 2 Me". He is known for his versatile production skills that range from pop to hip hop.
The sound quality of the album is crisp and clear, with balanced levels of vocals and instruments. The album also features various sound effects and samples that add to the atmosphere and mood of the songs. The album is well-mixed and mastered, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable listening experience.` How did the album perform commercially? The album was released on March 4, 2016, by Cashtime Life. It was available for purchase on various digital platforms, such as iTunes, Google Play, Deezer, and Spotify. It was also distributed physically in selected stores across South Africa. The album sold over 10,000 copies in its first week, earning a gold certification from the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA). It also debuted at number one on the iTunes South Africa chart, as well as on several radio charts. The album spawned four singles: "Kingpin", "Lie 2 Me", "Ke Summer", and "Tse Blind". All of them received heavy airplay and positive feedback from the fans. `How did the album perform commercially?
The album was released on March 4, 2016, by Cashtime Life. It was available for purchase on various digital platforms, such as iTunes, Google Play, Deezer, and Spotify. It was also distributed physically in selected stores across South Africa. The album sold over 10,000 copies in its first week, earning a gold certification from the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA). It also debuted at number one on the iTunes South Africa chart, as well as on several radio charts. The album spawned four singles: "Kingpin", "Lie 2 Me", "Ke Summer", and "Tse Blind". All of them received heavy airplay and positive feedback from the fans.` How did the critics and fans react to the album? The album received mostly positive reviews from critics and fans alike, who praised Ma-E's lyrical skills, delivery, storytelling, and authenticity. They also commended the production quality, diversity, and originality of the album. Some of the reviews include: - Sabelo Mkhabela from OkayAfrica gave the album a rating of 8 out of 10, saying that it was "a solid debut that showcases Ma-E's versatility as a rapper and his ability to craft catchy songs that appeal to a wide audience". - Ntombizodwa Makhoba from City Press gave the album a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, saying that it was "a masterpiece that reflects Ma-E's growth as an artist and his passion for his craft". - Siphelele Buthelezi from ZAlebs gave the album a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, saying that it was "a refreshing and enjoyable listen that proves that Ma-E is still relevant and influential in the South African hip hop scene". - Thabiso Mosia from SA Hip Hop Mag gave the album a rating of 7 out of 10, saying that it was "a decent debut that showcases Ma-E's strengths as a rapper and his connection with his fans". The fans also expressed their support and appreciation for the album on social media and online platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. They also shared their favorite songs, lyrics, and moments from the album. Some of the fan comments include: - "Ma-E is a legend. Township Counsellor is a classic. Every song is a banger. Respect to the OG." - "This album is fire. Ma-E killed it. He is the real township counsellor. He speaks for us and to us." - "I love this album. Ma-E is so authentic and relatable. He tells his story with passion and skill. He is an inspiration to me and many others." - "This album is amazing. Ma-E is so versatile and creative. He has a unique sound and style that sets him apart from other rappers. He is a leader in the game." `How did the critics and fans react to the album?
The album received mostly positive reviews from critics and fans alike, who praised Ma-E's lyrical skills, delivery, storytelling, and authenticity. They also commended the production quality, diversity, and originality of the album. Some of the reviews include:Sabelo Mkhabela from OkayAfrica gave the album a rating of 8 out of 10, saying that it was "a solid debut that showcases Ma-E's versatility as a rapper and his ability to craft catchy songs that appeal to a wide audience".
Ntombizodwa Makhoba from City Press gave the album a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, saying that it was "a masterpiece that reflects Ma-E's growth as an artist and his passion for his craft".
Siphelele Buthelezi from ZAlebs gave the album a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, saying that it was "a refreshing and enjoyable listen that proves that Ma-E is still relevant and influential in the South African hip hop scene".
Thabiso Mosia from SA Hip Hop Mag gave the album a rating of 7 out of 10, saying that it was "a decent debut that showcases Ma-E's strengths as a rapper and his connection with his fans".
The fans also expressed their support and appreciation for the album on social media and online platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. They also shared their favorite songs, lyrics, and moments from the album. Some of the fan comments include:
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Township counsellor Ma-E album themes and messages"Ma-E is a legend. Township Counsellor is a classic. Every song is a banger. Respect to the OG."
"This album is fire. Ma-E killed it. He is the real township counsellor. He speaks for us and to us."
"I love this album. Ma-E is so authentic and relatable. He tells his story with passion and skill. He is an inspiration to me and many others."
"This album is amazing. Ma-E is so versatile and creative. He has a unique sound and style that sets him apart from other rappers. He is a leader in the game."
` In conclusion, Township Counsellor is a remarkable debut album by Ma-E that showcases his talent, experience, and vision as a rapper and as a person. The album offers a rich and diverse sound that appeals to different tastes and moods. The album also delivers a powerful and positive message that inspires and motivates listeners to overcome their challenges and pursue their dreams. The album is a testament to Ma-E's legacy and influence in the South African hip hop scene, as well as to his dedication and passion for his craft. Township Counsellor is an album that deserves to be heard and appreciated by anyone who loves good music. `Conclusion
In conclusion, Township Counsellor is a remarkable debut album by Ma-E that showcases his talent, experience, and vision as a rapper and as a person. The album offers a rich and diverse sound that appeals to different tastes and moods. The album also delivers a powerful and positive message that inspires and motivates listeners to overcome their challenges and pursue their dreams. The album is a testament to Ma-E's legacy and influence in the South African hip hop scene, as well as to his dedication and passion for his craft. Township Counsellor is an album that deserves to be heard and appreciated by anyone who loves good music.` FAQs - Q: Where can I download Township Counsellor by Ma-E? - A: You can download Township Counsellor by Ma-E on various digital platforms, such as iTunes, Google Play, Deezer, and Spotify. - Q: When was Township Counsellor by Ma-E released? - A: Township Counsellor by Ma-E was released on March 4, 2016. - Q: How many tracks are on Township Coun sellor by Ma-E? - A: There are 15 tracks on Township Counsellor by Ma-E. - Q: Who are some of the featured artists on Township Counsellor by Ma-E? - A: Some of the featured artists on Township Counsellor by Ma-E are Pro, AKA, Emtee, Kid X, Moozlie, Masandi, DJ Capital, and Maggz. - Q: What is the meaning of Ghanda Ghanda? - A: Ghanda Ghanda is the name of Ma-E's clothing line, as well as his nickname. It means "the one who makes noise" or "the one who stands out" in Zulu. - Q: What is the difference between skanda rap and kwaito? - A: Skanda rap is a subgenre of hip hop that originated in South Africa. It fuses kwaito, a style of music that mixes house, reggae, and African rhythms, with rap lyrics and beats. Kwaito is more of a dance-oriented genre, while skanda rap is more of a lyrical genre. `FAQs
Q: Where can I download Township Counsellor by Ma-E?A: You can download Township Counsellor by Ma-E on various digital platforms, such as iTunes, Google Play, Deezer, and Spotify.
Q: When was Township Counsellor by Ma-E released?A: Township Counsellor by Ma-E was released on March 4, 2016.
Q: How many tracks are on Township Counsellor by Ma-E?A: There are 15 tracks on Township Counsellor by Ma-E.
Q: Who are some of the featured artists on Township Counsellor by Ma-E?A: Some of the featured artists on Township Counsellor by Ma-E are Pro, AKA, Emtee, Kid X, Moozlie, Masandi, DJ Capital, and Maggz.
Q: What is the meaning of Ghanda Ghanda?A: Ghanda Ghanda is the name of Ma-E's clothing line, as well as his nickname. It means "the one who makes noise" or "the one who stands out" in Zulu.
Q: What is the difference between skanda rap and kwaito?A: Skanda rap is a subgenre of hip hop that originated in South Africa. It fuses kwaito, a style of music that mixes house, reggae, and African rhythms, with rap lyrics and beats. Kwaito is more of a dance-oriented genre, while skanda rap is more of a lyrical genre.
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