In this interview Afroplug founder Ms Mavy acquaints us with the sound of Angolan Afrohouse – a percussive style of club music emanating from Lisbon’s underground. She also breaks down the process of creating the label’s newest pack Afrohouse Angolano Essentials.
How would you describe Angolan Afrohouse, and what sets it apart?
Angolan Afrohouse is a genre that thrives on complex rhythms, vibrant energy, and a deep connection to Angolan culture. It stands apart from South African Afrohouse in its use of raw, syncopated rhythms and distinct melodic progressions, which often stem from Angola’s rich musical traditions like Kuduro and Batida.
While South African Afrohouse tends to lean into deep basslines, soulful chords, and a smoother, more atmospheric vibe, Angolan Afrohouse is more percussive and dance-focused, bringing an energetic drive that’s hard to resist. Producers like DJ Lycox, DJ Marfox, Nigga Fox in the Lisbon scene have been instrumental in globalizing this sound while keeping its Angolan essence intact. This pack focuses specifically on the rhythms, textures, and melodic elements that define Afrohouse in Angola, providing an authentic and versatile toolkit for producers.
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How do you see Angolan Afrohouse evolving in the global music scene?
Angolan Afrohouse has already begun to make waves internationally, thanks to producers like Branko, DJ Lycox, and Nigga Fox, who have taken elements of the genre to global stages. Their work has paved the way for new interpretations and collaborations, inspiring a fresh wave of producers to explore Afrohouse from Angola.
Within Angola, the genre continues to evolve with producers experimenting with more melodic elements and blending Afrohouse with pop, Afrobeat, and other styles. What’s exciting is seeing how the genre’s percussive intensity and vibrant energy are being preserved while still adapting to modern trends.
I believe Angolan Afrohouse will continue to grow as its unique identity becomes more defined and appreciated. Its contrast to other Afrohouse styles, like those from South Africa, allows it to stand out as a dynamic, high-energy sound that’s deeply tied to its cultural roots.
Tell us a bit about your journey and how it informed this project
As a music producer and DJ with Guadeloupean and Cameroonian roots, I’ve always drawn deep inspiration from various musical cultures, and Angolan Afrohouse holds a special place in my creative process. Though my heritage is different, I wanted to honor the vibrant energy and uniqueness of Angolan Afrohouse with this pack, Angola Afrohouse Essentials.
Collaborating with my team—Jodin P, Emerald P, and Boy2Shirtz—our goal was to encapsulate the essence of Angola’s Afrohouse while providing tools for producers globally to explore its intricate rhythms and melodies. Having contributed to Branko’s album OBG alongside one of Buraka Som Sistema’s legendary members (a renowned Afrohouse Kuduro Group) , I’ve seen how Angolan Afrohouse can connect deeply with audiences worldwide. This pack reflects both my respect for the genre’s traditions and my excitement for its global future.
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Can you walk us through your process for creating this sample pack?
The creation of this pack was a collaborative effort with my team—Jodin P, Emerald P, and Boy2Shirtz—where we focused on capturing the raw essence of Angolan Afrohouse. We started by studying the genre’s signature rhythmic patterns, drawing inspiration from producers like DJ Lycox and tracks deeply rooted in Kuduro and Afrohouse traditions.
In the studio, we combined real percussion recordings with digital elements to ensure authenticity while maintaining versatility for modern producers. Our process also involved layering vibrant melodies and textures that could complement the energetic beats. Having worked on a track for Branko’s OBG album, I brought the same attention to detail and respect for this diasporic genre’s roots to this pack.
What advice would you give to producers exploring Afrohouse or creating sample packs?
First, immerse yourself in the genre by studying its nuances and understanding its cultural context. For Angolan Afrohouse, focus on its percussive complexity and rhythmic drive. Explore the works of producers like DJ Lycox, DJ Marfox, and Nigga Fox to see how they’ve brought the genre into the global spotlight.
When creating, balance authenticity with creativity. Incorporate organic elements like real percussion to honor the genre’s roots, but don’t shy away from innovation. Collaborating with others, like I did with Jodin P, Emerald P, and Boy2Shirtz, can bring new perspectives that elevate your work.
Lastly, remember that Angolan Afrohouse is all about movement and energy. Take your time to craft grooves that resonate on the dance floor while remaining true to the genre’s vibrant essence.