Jesse Clegg and Msaki Collaborate on “Entropy” EP, Leading with “Wayside Lover” Featuring Sjava
Musician Jesse Clegg is venturing into new creative territory with Entropy, his upcoming collaborative EP with South African singer-songwriter Msaki. Set for release in January 2026, the project is already generating buzz with its lead single, Wayside Lover, featuring Sjava. The EP promises a fusion of friendship, travel, and artistic growth, reflecting the personal and professional journeys of both artists.
Clegg shared with Independent Media Lifestyle that the collaboration began over three years ago when he and Msaki first met while working on a separate project. “I was such a fan of her writing, her voice, and her artistic presence in the industry,” he said. “From the first day we worked together, there was an immediate connection both creatively and personally. We were both going through big transitions in our lives and related to each other in deep ways.”
What started as casual studio sessions soon developed into a full-fledged project. Clegg explained, “After we’d written two or three songs together, it felt really exciting because the songs didn’t sound like me or Msaki. They sounded like something new. That’s when we realised it could work as a project.”
The EP was written across four cities — Cape Town, Los Angeles, Johannesburg, and New York — making it a reflection of their friendship and shared experiences. Clegg described the songs as “diary entries from different moments in our lives.” He elaborated, “‘Wayside Lover’, for example, started in LA after we’d gone to Coachella, continued in Joburg, and was finished in Cape Town. It travelled with us.”
Wayside Lover serves as a centerpiece of Entropy, exploring themes of love, disconnection, and emotional tension. The single also features Sjava, whose contribution adds a third perspective to the narrative. Clegg revealed that Sjava’s involvement was unplanned: “It wasn’t planned. I played him some of the songs Msaki and I were working on, and he immediately connected with ‘Wayside Lover’. He asked to be part of it, which was amazing because we’re both big fans of his. His verse adds this beautiful observer’s perspective on the interaction between our two voices.”
The EP is produced by Greg Abrahams and Nicholas Petricca and mixed and mastered by Grammy Award-winner Damian Taylor. The project blends African storytelling with global production influences, creating a sound that is both innovative and grounded in Clegg and Msaki’s personal artistry.
When discussing expectations, Clegg emphasized that the focus was always on artistic engagement rather than pleasing audiences. “I think people will be surprised. They might not have expected Msaki and me to make an album together, but that’s what makes it interesting. It’s a pleasant surprise,” he said.
Entropy promises to be a journey through collaboration, self-discovery, and global musical exploration, showcasing the depth and versatility of both Jesse Clegg and Msaki while highlighting the power of artistic connection.
