We spoke to DJ, producer, and label owner Ollie Mundy, a rising force in the Afro and melodic house scenes, to talk about his latest single ‘Kirima’ – which features the distinctive vocals of Nes Mburu.
Released on his own OVAVA Music imprint, Ollie opens up about the creative process behind the track, his plans for future remixes, and other upcoming projects, including what’s to come on OVAVA Music. Read the interview in full below.
You’re about to return to your own OVAVA Music imprint for the release of your new single ‘Kirima’ – talk us through the process of making the track?
It’s been really important to me to make music with original vocals and I’ve used a couple of different vocalists already, so when I reached out to Nes Mburu I was really happy when he accepted to work with me. He has been very busy on the Afro scene and I love his tone and style. He has had some great hits, one being ‘Peperuke’ with Alex Wann. We worked on this remotely and went back and forth to get it right, and I’m really happy with the outcome.
It seems like a great track to remix, will we see any edits of ‘Kirima’ down the road?
While I don’t have any concrete plans at the moment, I strongly believe in the potential of this track and would be interested in having a remix created to complement its release.
Which other record labels could we hear you on in the near future?
I released an EP on My Other Side Of The Moon a couple of weeks ago, and I’m thrilled by its increasing exposure and chart performance. It’s exciting to see it climb up the charts, currently holding a position in the top 50 of the melodic chart.
Looking ahead, I’m eagerly anticipating the release of my upcoming EP on Sondela Recordings on January 11th. This EP features two tracks that showcase different styles. ‘No Pain’ is a dynamic dancefloor instrumental, while the other track, ‘Niwewe’ includes a collaboration with Tashie Wamz.
Tashie Wamz, who was also featured on OVAVA Music with the track ‘Sitoki’, has been a strong contributor to our musical journey. I’m confident that this new release will continue to captivate listeners and showcase the diversity of my music production.
And which other producers have you got releasing soon on OVAVA?
The upcoming year for OVAVA will introduce some new artists to our roster. Although I can’t disclose any details just yet, I’m thrilled with the incredible new music that is emerging and I look forward to sharing it with our audience.
What’s been one track you’ve fell in love with in 2024?
I understand the challenge of choosing favourites when there are so many amazing tracks out there. I’m particularly currently enjoying the music of Meera, Samm, Demayä, and Arodes. Among these artists, the new track ‘You Are’ by Demayä has really caught my attention and stood out as my favourite, I love the production on this and when played at the right time, it absolutely goes off!
Is there anything else you want to add before we finish up?
I’m currently in talks for some exciting collaborations and working with some fantastic artists for next year. The music that I’ve been working on this summer is some of my strongest material yet, and I’m strategising how to bring it to the market. Additionally, I’m considering releasing a free edit soon.
Ollie Mundy ft. Nes Mburu – Kirima is out now on OVAVA Music.