Mpho.Wav Shines at Kunye: Redefining Afro-Tech and 3 Step

South African DJ, producer, vocalist, and sonic architect Mpho.Wav delivered another electrifying set at Kunye, one of the continent’s most important stages for Afro-Tech and Afro-House. Fresh from the performance, he spoke about his musical evolution, his pioneering role in 3 Step, and the next chapter of his acclaimed project, Book of Wav.

Mpho.Wav defines himself without hesitation: “I’m a musician, DJ, producer, vocalist, engineer… all things music.” Over the past decade, his sound has quietly shaped South African dancefloors. From underground beginnings to becoming a respected electronic innovator, he continues to focus on experimentation and learning.

Despite his success, Mpho.Wav still identifies as a student of music. “I still prefer to think of myself as an underground guy with so much to introduce to the people.” His 2024 project, Book of Wav, marked a major breakthrough, showcasing his versatility and deep-rooted musicality.

Widely regarded as a pioneer of 3 Step, Mpho.Wav credits key collaborations for shaping the sound. He recalls meeting Thakzin during the Afro Funk era, a formative influence: “I felt like 3 Step was born from Afro Funk. I started learning Afro Funk, then jumped to 3 Step. Then I met Atmos Blaq… everything just connected.”

Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizes persistence: “When you dream, you don’t know what’s going to happen… you just dream and do, dream and do.” Those dreams now play out on some of the biggest stages, including Kunye, where he has performed multiple times.

Performing on one of Africa’s most revered Afro-Tech platforms remains overwhelming. “It’s been amazement, amusement, incredibility… I have no words. To be on this stage with such amazing producers and DJs—it means so much.” Even after multiple appearances, the nerves persist, showing how much the platform matters to him.

With artists like Jaz Worx bringing 3 Step to commercial audiences, Mpho.Wav celebrates the sound’s growing recognition. “I feel humbled to finally see it happen. The world is ready for new sounds. What an awesome time to be alive.” Seeing Afro House and 3 Step surpass Amapiano on the charts validates the work of the producers who built the sound from scratch.

Mpho.Wav hints at major releases, including Book of Wav II and a collaboration with long-time partner Atmos Blaq called Atmos Wave. “It’s a collaboration, it’s a duo… whatever you want to call it. We’re doing music together. It’s bigger than us. It was born from real friendship and real moments.” The duo already released a remix with Oskido, with their debut single, “God Damn!”, coming soon.

Mpho.Wav promises fans a flood of new music: “So much music is coming out. So many new sounds. People must be ready to listen.” Exclusive tracks will drop soon, ensuring his growing audience has access to fresh material.

He closes with appreciation for platforms that support artists and the culture: “Thank you for being there for the music and the artists. We appreciate the work. Let’s keep growing together.”

Mpho.Wav continues to push the boundaries of Afro-Tech and 3 Step, blending innovation with deep respect for the roots of South African electronic music. His performances, collaborations, and upcoming projects promise to shape the sound of the continent for years to come.