M3NSA's MOBO

Our good friends from afripopmag let us in on some good news:


London- As a fitting crown to what continues to be an epic year for M3NSA, the Ghanaian London-based MC, producer and singer has received a preliminary nod for a UK Music of Black Origin (MOBO) award.

The announcement was made on Wednesday 8th September at a ceremony in London ahead of the 15th anniversary of the MOBO Awards show, set to take place on October the 20th. M3NSA’s name was listed amongst 15 of the finest artists in Africa and in the Diaspora who will contend via public vote in the category for the Best African Act.

“I feel like after putting in a lot of time, energy and heart into creating music that I feel is authentic and truly represents what we are about as Africans in the diaspora, it’s good to be acknowledged for it,” comments M3NSA, adding, “It’s such a good feeling to be part of the scene right now. Being in the same category of other artists that I respect and who are doing amazing things is overwhelming.”

Said artists include K’Naan, Blk Jks, P Square and none other than fellow FOKN Boi Wanlov the Kubolor, with whom M3NSA conceptualised and performed on the hilarious Coz Ov Moni, known also as the world’s first pidgin musical. Adds M3NSA, ‘Kubolor and I are excited about our nominations because we know it is the beginning of great things to come.’



This is certainly the case for his solo career as M3NSA prepares for the release of his debut international album No. 1 Mango Street on October 2nd 2010. In summary, it’s a narrative referencing the place where he grew up in Accra, in parts nostalgic (Looking for My Way Home), at times pensive (No One Knows Tomorrow) and even humorous (Yenko’oo featuring Kwabena Jones). It is also remarkably assured and earnest as up until this point, M3NSA has spent a good twelve years perfecting his musicianship both as a producer (for legends such as Hip Life pioneer Reggie Rockstone and London DJ/producer Richy Pitch) and also as a live performer. He has opened shows for Wu-Tang Clan, The Roots, Little Brother and the Gorillaz, and more recently rocked the mic with Damon Albarn, The Gorillaz, Tony Allen and Amadou and Mariam at the Africa Express events in France and Spain.

London revellers can experience the launch set from one of Ghana’s most respected rappers on Friday 2 October at the Rich Mix. Attached is the lead single ‘No One Knows Tomorrow’ a breezy optimistic tune sampling Nigerian folk-soul singer Asa. Please add to your blogs and social media forums for streaming. Or just listen for yourself.

The general public is invited to sign up to MOBO.com and vote for their choice of the Best African Act.

We're rooting for the kid