Mellow & Sleazy, the reigning monarchs of Bacardi music hailing from Pretoria, along with the talented Pabi Cooper, have embarked on a groundbreaking journey to merge the infectious rhythms of Amapiano with the raw energy of Bacardi. In a recent interview, they unveiled the secrets behind their innovative fusion, shedding light on the evolution of this unique sound.
Defined by its fast-paced tempo and unapologetically loud nature, Bacardi music is deeply rooted in the streets of Pretoria. Mellow & Sleazy and Pabi Cooper provide insight into the origins of Bacardi, emphasizing its untamed essence. “Bacardi is Bacardi,” they assert, “there is no subgenre. It’s fast, loud, and ratchet, and that’s exactly how we like it.”
The fusion of Amapiano with Bacardi was a natural progression for Mellow & Sleazy, who grew up surrounded by the vibrant sounds of their hometown. “The place that infused the sound is Sosha, Garankuwa, Mamelodi, Mabopane, Pheli, just Pretoria hoods. We wanted to infuse Amapiano with Bacardi because it’s a sound we grew up with,” they explain. “We wanted to see if we could introduce it to a wider audience and revive its popularity.”
Pabi Cooper, introduced to the blend by Mellow & Sleazy, immediately recognized the potential of the fusion. Reflecting on their collaboration on the track “Uthanda Kanjani,” we made that song she recalls, “The first time I experienced Amapiano and Bacardi together was with Mellow & Sleazy. We vibed and understood each other instantly.”
Ensuring Pabi’s authenticity as a fellow Pretorian was pivotal in fostering this musical connection. Mellow & Sleazy affirm, “We needed someone who understood the essence of Bacardi, someone who could vibe with us. Luckily, Pabi was from the same streets as us.”
Their collaboration marked a turning point in the Pretoria music scene, breathing new life into a genre that was once thought to be fading. “People from Pretoria thought Bacardi was dead,” they admit. “But now, we’re bringing it back with Amapiano.”
Mellow & Sleazy’s pioneering spirit and musical prowess shine through in their fusion of Amapiano and Bacardi. Their tracks are characterized by infectious hooks, pounding beats, and an electrifying atmosphere that transcends genre boundaries. It’s music that compels you to move, to dance, and to embrace the vibrant culture of Pretoria.
As trailblazers in the industry, Mellow & Sleazy and Pabi Cooper have not only revitalized a genre but have also set the stage for a new wave of musical innovation. Their collaboration serves as a testament to the power of music to unite communities and celebrate shared heritage through a fusion of sounds.
