New documentary explores Grammy winner Manana's artistic journey

Singer, songwriter and music producer, Manana. Picture: Instagram.

Singer, songwriter and music producer, Manana. Picture: Instagram.

Published Aug 26, 2024

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Eswatini-born musician Manana, a Grammy Award winner, has expanded his portfolio with a captivating new music documentary.

Produced by Spotify, the documentary follows the release of the artist’s latest album, “Our Broken Hearts Mend”, the final chapter in his musical trilogy.

The new album explores themes of heartbreak, healing and the transformative power of love, while the accompanying documentary offers a deeper look into Manana's creative process, the inspiration behind it and his evolution as an artist.

Manana, who is a part of the Spotify Radar African Artist programme, said: “Years and years of releasing music has brought us to this point and the timing couldn’t be better. To be chosen for the program is both humbling and affirming.”

In the doccie trailer, Manana shared: “The gift that I have and I’ve been working on, mastering over the last few years, has brought me to this moment.

“From a very young age I joined the Drakensberg Boys Choir School and I think from that time in my life music was kind of the only thing on my mind. Seeing how my music travels these days, it’s a big thing.

“Being able to go home and hear people singing my songs, go to LA and hear stories of how people have flown in from another city to just see me perform three songs, and those are the kinds of stories that it’s obviously really really special.”

Watch trailer below:

The singer, songwriter and producer’s music trilogy started in 2020 with the release of his debut album, “In The Beginning Was The End”.

In 2022, he followed up with “But Could The Moments In Between”.

The release of “Our Broken Hearts Mend” completes the narrative arc capturing the complexities of human relationships and the universal experiences of love and loss.

The album has only been out for a week, but is already receiving rave comments from listeners.

“This album nje ngathi you were imagining my wedding, because I do every time I’m listening to it,” commented @athini_mcstories.

“I’m obsessed with this album😍❤️,” said @dimpleszan.

@ayandangcobo_ shared: “Cried the entire album 😭🥹… Such artistry!!”

Manana has received many honours, such as a South African Music Awards (Samas) in 2023 for Best R&B/Soul Album, and a Grammy Award for his work on global superstar Burna Boy's critically acclaimed album, “Twice As Tall”.