South African ghetto-funk trailblazer Moonchild Sanelly is set to release her highly anticipated third studio album, Full Moon, on January 10, 2025, via Transgressive Records. Known for her electrifying collaborations with Beyoncé, Tierra Whack, Gorillaz, Steve Aoki, and others, Moonchild brings her bold, genre-defying artistry to new heights in this upcoming release.
A Sonic Journey Across Borders
Full Moon was recorded in Malawi, the UK, and Sweden, and produced by Johan Hugo (notable for his work with Self Esteem, MIA, and Kano). The album seamlessly blends electronic, afro-punk, edgy-pop, kwaito, and hip-hop elements, delivering a club-ready sound that’s as daring as it is diverse.
The lead single, “Do My Dance,” showcases the album’s ambition and energy. Featuring rapid-fire verses atop a bold Happy hardcore beat, the track explodes into a vibrant singalong chorus. The accompanying video, directed by Nate Thomas and filmed in Johannesburg, highlights Moonchild’s distinctive aesthetic, crowned by her signature teal-colored Moon Mop.
Embracing Wholeness with Full Moon
“I called this record Full Moon to convey a clear sense of being whole,” shares Moonchild Sanelly. “Phases was about showcasing the different sides of myself—the phases of the moon. But this one? It’s me lit up in my entirety. It’s the arrival of my whole self.”
The album reflects a journey of personal growth and self-acceptance. “Full Moon is everything I needed to experience to get to this point—every fight, every sadness, every moment of forgiveness and letting go,” she explains. “It’s a culmination of emotions and a celebration of wholeness, mental and spiritual togetherness.”
Recent Highlights
Moonchild Sanelly has been lighting up 2024 with standout releases and collaborations:
- Her singles “Scrambled Eggs,” “Sweet & Savage” (premiered on COLORSxSTUDIOS), and “Big Booty” have captivated audiences worldwide, including at Glastonbury Festival, where she performed ten shows.
- Album track “Gwara Gwara” was featured on the EA Sports FC25 soundtrack.
- The summer smash “Big Man” with Self Esteem earned the title of “Song of the Summer 2024” from The Guardian.
- Collaborations like “Mad” with Steve Aoki and “Streets Is Calling” with Ezra Collective and M.anifest have further solidified her global presence.
Looking Ahead
Full Moon promises to be an unmissable chapter in Moonchild Sanelly’s career, offering a vibrant mix of sonic experimentation and heartfelt storytelling. Get ready to experience her full creative force when the album drops in January 2025.
For updates and tour dates, visit moonchildsanelly.com.
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