Tshivenda traditional music exponent Mbulaheni Leonard Mulaudzi, better known by his stage name of Dasco Mahn, has released his much-anticipated album, Nwana wa Dasco.
The nine-track album, recorded by renowned producer Ishy Malala at Tshau Records in Tshaulu, was released in November 2024. Rooted in authentic Tshivenda traditional music, it features tracks such as Tshinyanyani Makhulu, which revives classic Tshivenda songs.
The musician, who hails from Vondwe near Thohoyandou, describes his latest offering as his best work to date. "I have been in this game since 2016 and have released several remarkable songs, but this album feels like my best effort so far," he said. "I love my culture and my upbringing. My passion is deeply rooted in the Vhavenda culture, and when I work on something cultural, I give it my all. For this album, I dug into the archives, and the elders shared what they have preserved for generations. The result is something truly unique. This is our heritage, and we should never shy away from it. I created this album mainly for the youth, so they can learn about our roots and pass this knowledge on to future generations."
Dasco Mahn added that he had modernised the music with Western instruments to appeal to younger audiences. "The youth can dance traditionally while enjoying modern beats. I'm thrilled that they are embracing this music, and I hope the message will resonate with them. I'm also excited to announce that a new reggae album is on the way," he said.
Dasco Mahn's musical talent is deeply ingrained in his heritage. Born into a family where music was a way of life, he credits his late mother, Mukatshelwa Mudangawe Luruli Mulaudzi, a skilled malende dancer, and his father, Gerson Ratshalingwa Mulaudzi, a talented guitarist and mbila player, for shaping his passion for music.