By Bahle Gama
Spotify Fresh Finds Africa has selected emerging R&B/Fusion singer and songwriter MAUIMØON as the artist for February.
MAUIMØON real name Donald Otim from Uganda has been transforming the local scene by tapping into a variety of influences in R&B, Afropop and Hip Hop with no geographical boundaries.
Launched in March 2022, Fresh Finds Africa is designed to provide a launching pad for emerging independent artists to reach new audiences, and the programme is built around the eponymous playlist and access to tools and initiatives that inspire artists to have long and thriving careers.
MAUIMØON became intrigued by music at the age of 11, drawing inspiration from avant-garde creators like Pharrell, Missy Elliot and Timbaland.
He made his first public foray into music with the release of Drive and Too Real in 2019. After a short break attributed to the global pandemic, the singer announced himself the following year with the release of Pleasure EP, a collection of slow, easy and cosy R&B-fusion records that evoked the same feeling as the title.
The wide-ranging nature of the records helped earn MAUIMØON a dedicated and expectant fanbase, hence the selection by Spotify. According to Pulse, following a string of singles including 2022’s Here They Come, MAUIMØON secured his place in the conversation with the release of Sweeta, a fan favourite that is also among his most streamed records yet.
Since then, the singer has struck a fruitful chord with his producer alias, La Soulchyld, birthing Cherry Sweet, a 2022 release that is billed as the lead single from his forthcoming project, From Uganda With Love due for release in February.
Spotify Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa Phiona Okumu says MAUIMØON and his music represent a defiant, exciting variety of artistry, “and we are eager to support him on this phase of his journey and further share his talent with the world.”
MAUIMØON is also said to be catching attention across the continent, including features by BBC1 radio and Nigeria’s Native Mag which has seen him eager to leave a legacy that outlives his music.
He stated that to him having a legacy is creating unforgettable moments, memories and feelings in other people’s lives and at different times of their lives.
“It also means helping my community and changing the lives of others who have not been as privileged as myself,” said MAUIMØON.
Thank you so much @SpotifyAfrica @spotify for these playlist placements and these major Spotify covers! It really means a lot 💐 Go stream From Uganda With Love out now on Spotify 🇺🇬 pic.twitter.com/JKB03wZkup
— MAUIMØON. (@soundsbymaui) February 19, 2023
