Download The 10 Best Brown Dash Songs
Remembering the Legacy of Kwaito Icon, Brown Dash, on the 11th Anniversary of his Passing
Today, we pay homage to the indelible mark left by the late Brown Dash, as we commemorate the 11th anniversary of his untimely departure. A true luminary in the world of Kwaito, Brown Dash holds a distinguished place in music history as one of the pioneering artists signed under TS Records. His debut album, ‘Puff N’ Pass,’ released in 2002, etched his name in gold as he proudly presented the label with its first-ever coveted gold plaque.
Brown Dash’s musical journey paved the way for numerous hits, each one a testament to his boundless talent and creativity. Albums such as ‘Mthandazo Wabolova,’ ‘Dashboard,’ ‘Skhathi Sakhona,’ and ‘Back 2 Kasi’ became veritable treasures, showcasing his artistry and propelling him to new heights within the industry.
His influential presence continues to reverberate through the South African music landscape, permeating the works of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from his legacy. Riky Rick, in his single ‘Nafukwa (Fok Julle Naaiers),’ boldly asserted that had Brown Dash been alive in 2015, he would have undoubtedly been a member of the esteemed collective, BoyzNBucks. Furthermore, Amapiano/Kwaito artist Reece Madlisa paid homage to Brown Dash’s iconic album cover from ‘Mthandazo Wabolova’ by incorporating it into the artwork for his EP, ‘Kwaito Nama Medi.’ The impact of Brown Dash’s artistry resonates in modern-day pantsulas like Reece Madlisa and emerging talents like Toss and others, who draw inspiration from his profound influence.
As we reflect on the illustrious career of Brown Dash, it is only fitting to revisit and appreciate what we consider to be his 10 finest songs. This curated selection stands as a testament to his versatility, lyrical prowess, and the profound emotions he effortlessly conveyed through his music.
Please note that this list is presented without any specific order, as each song encapsulates a unique aspect of Brown Dash’s brilliance, making it nearly impossible to rank them.
Join us in commemorating the extraordinary talent and enduring impact of Brown Dash, an artist who touched the hearts and souls of music lovers across South Africa and beyond. May his memory continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that his musical legacy remains forever ingrained in the tapestry of our cultural heritage.
Vum Vum’ (featuring M’Du & Brickz) (2004)
Album: ‘Mthandazo Wabolova‘
Producer: M’Du Masilela
‘Vum Vum’ is one of the most recognisable South African songs of all time and is debatably the finest song by Brown Dash. Brown Dash’s large personality and chesty vocal projection are complemented by M’Du Masilela’s smooth production, excellent performance, and appearances from Brickz and M’Du. The film became a cultural landmark because to guest appearances by the late football teams Orland Pirates, Mamelodi Sundown, and Bafana Bafana midfielder Gift Leremi. Later, Ruff sampled “Vum Vum” for Emtee’s “Mamie Game,” a similarly lovely love ballad from Big Hustle’s debut album “Avery.”
‘Phants’ Komthunzi Welanga’ (featuring Mzekezeke) (2004)
Album: ‘Mthandazo Wabolova’
Producer: M’Du Masilela
The beat on this song is pure audio crack; Brown Dash and Mzekezeke met that whizzing whistle and M’Du’s recognisable bassline halfway and made a reference to a traditional children’s game in one of Brown Dash’s biggest songs. DJ Cleo, who collaborated closely with Brown Dash, claims that Thembi Seete wrote the hook.
Puff N’ Pass’ (featuring Zola, Mzekezeke) (2002)
Producer: DJ Cleo
Album: ‘Puff N Pass’
‘Umngena Ndlini’ (2005)
Producer: Spikiri
Album: ‘Dashboard’
Brown Dash and Izinyoka member Msashman encouraged people in “Umngena Ndlini,” a deep cut from “Dashboard,” to hustle for their family and do any job they can find to put food on the table.
‘Miki Mouse’ (2005)
Producer: DJ Mphulo
Album: ‘Dashboard’
The third album’s title tune by Brown Dash demonstrated that no matter who was on the boards, Brown Dash was just an unquestionable talent. After several successes, Brown Dash made the not entirely false claim that a party without him or his music was a Miki Mouse party. DJ Mphulo, who collaborated closely with Izinyoka and TS Records, had a distinctive sound. His bassline was unmistakable, and he frequently added components like keys, synthesisers, and digital choirs, as he did in this song and in songs by Izinyoka like “Ngoma Yam,” “Njenge Ndoda,” and “Ama Fluit.”
‘Mthandazo Wabolova’ (2006)
Producer: Guffy
Album: ‘Mthandazo Wabolova’
A hustler’s anthem, “eJozi kuyanyobwa, kuhanjwa kancane, boss, kuhanjwa njengo nwabu,” and “Sash ngiyak’saba mngan wami, wangithatha wangihlanganisa namabonda” are featured on Brown Dash’s sophomore album’s title track and opening song, respectively.
‘Ayoba Yo’ (2006)
Producer: M’Du Masilela
Album: ‘Skhathi Sakhona’
M’Du’s music evolved naturally yet nevertheless remained true to itself in the 2000s. The compatibility of Brown Dash and M’Du had already been established several times, and working on “Ayoba Yo” was just another day at the job for the musician and producer.
‘Akekho Ophethe’ (2002)
Producer: DJ Cleo
Album: ‘Puff N’ Pass’
A new generation of Kwaito producers, like DJ Cleo, advanced the style by utilising novel apparatuses and instruments. As a result, his music had a certain freshness, of which the rhythms on the album “Puff N’ Pass” are a fantastic example. The album’s “Akekho Ophethe” was a highlight. “Sakhulel’ emkhukhwini thina, lakugcwele amaroto” is only one of the passionate phrases that Brown Dash dropped in this song.
‘Back 2 Kasi’ (2008)
Producer: Spikiri
Album: ‘Back 2 Kasi’
Brown Dash was one of the few remaining Kwaito musicians in 2008 since the style had reached its peak. Spikiri’s nostalgic Kwaito blockbuster, “Back 2 Kasi,” was one of the final Kwaito songs at a period when House and Hip-Hop had taken over. It showed Brown Dash in terrific health. Being a Kwaito artist required a lot of alone. In the song’s opening stanza, Brown Dash rapped, “Ngathi awasekho amapantsula.”
Brown Dash & Kabelo – ‘Amasoja’ (2004)
Producer: Guffy
Album: ‘Yizo Yizo 3 Soundtrack’
Unveiling an Unforeseen Collaboration: ‘Amasoja’ Unites Kwaito’s Finest Wordsmiths over a Lively Guffy Production
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as two of Kwaito’s most acclaimed lyricists join forces in an unexpected collaboration that defies expectations. ‘Amasoja’ stands as a powerful testament to resilience, delivered by the incomparable talents of Brown Dash and [Artist Name]. Their formidable verses intertwine seamlessly over a vibrant and infectious beat crafted by the masterful Guffy.
In a nostalgic twist, Brown Dash pays homage to his own discography by incorporating a verse recycled from ‘Akekho Ophethe,’ an album track from the iconic ‘Puff N’ Pass’ release. While some may question this creative decision, it is worth noting that such practices were not uncommon in the world of Kwaito, with artists like Kabelo having also embraced this approach on occasion.
Now, let us delve deeper into the realm of Brown Dash’s scorching hits, which further exemplify his unparalleled talent and musical prowess.
‘Ungalahl’ Ithemba’, ‘Ezayizolo’, ‘Yenzokwakho’, Ez’khiphayo, Nomalizo, ‘Makhandakhanda’
