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Mayonie Productions Label

Durban-based independent record label and talent agency founded in 2004 by South African artist Zakes Bantwini.

Based in
Durban, South Africa
Founded
2004
Founder
Zakhele Madida (Zakes Bantwini)

Mayonie Productions is an independent record label and talent management agency based in Durban, South Africa, founded in 2004 by South African artist and producer Zakhele Madida, known professionally as Zakes Bantwini. It is credited as one of the first successful Durban-based record labels in South Africa, and is closely associated with the emergence of Durban Kwaito, a genre blending house production with kwaito vocals.

The label is independent and remains led by its founder. Zakes Bantwini has also held roles as head of A&R at Sony Music Africa while continuing as Mayonie’s principal. In 2005, Mayonie signed and launched the career of kwaito artist L’vovo Derrango (Thokozani Ndlovu), whose self-titled debut earned a SAMA nomination and, in 2007, Metro FM Awards for Best Kwaito and Song of the Year. The label’s current roster includes Zakes Bantwini himself alongside Drega, Maline Aura, BLAQRHYTHM, BokkieUlt and Skye Wanda; past artists include Andile Mseleku and DJ Sindara.

Mayonie operates as both a record label and a talent management agency, handling artist development and production for its roster out of Durban.

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