Influence Profile
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Trending in Manu WorldStar’s World
Latest Single
Choko Amapiano Remix
Released Nov 19, 2020
Trending Globally
Story
Quick Facts
Born
1997
1997
From
Congo
Congo
Journey
Manu WorldStar, born Emmanuel Mutendji in Johannesburg to Congolese parents, is a rising voice in modern African music whose work moves between Afro-pop, R&B and hip hop. Growing up in a multilingual, multicultural household shaped his sense of rhythm and melody, eventually inspiring him to craft a sound that highlights both his heritage and his urban South African upbringing.
His career gained serious momentum with the release of “Nalingi,” a debut label single that spread quickly across radio stations and playlists. The song resonated in South Africa and across the continent, but it also found listeners in places such as the UK. Its broad appeal helped it climb charts in several genres and ultimately earn a gold certification, marking a major turning point in Manu’s journey.
After the success of “Nalingi,” he featured on a number of notable releases, including DJ PH’s “Go Down” and DJ Sabby’s “Theowa,” working alongside artists like Rouge and Gigi Lamayne. Manu later dropped “Future Plan,” a mellow and romantic single that unexpectedly caught global attention when P. Diddy shared it on Instagram.
In 2019, Manu introduced his first extended project, Young African Story, a five-track EP highlighting his versatility, vocal approach, and artistic direction. The project includes “Rent,” the gold-selling “Nalingi,” and “Future Plan,” further defining his musical identity.
Industry platforms such as Trace TV, Moziak Africa and OkayAfrica have highlighted him as an artist to watch. With multiple chart positions, major management and licensing deals, and a growing catalogue, Manu WorldStar continues establishing himself as a key figure in contemporary African pop music.