Idris in Madiba groove

13 November 2014 - 02:02 By Atiyyah Khan
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HIGH SPIRITS: Idris Elba with DJ Tracey Lange and comedian Siyabonga Radebe this week
HIGH SPIRITS: Idris Elba with DJ Tracey Lange and comedian Siyabonga Radebe this week
Image: ESA ALEXANDER

British actor and producer Idris Elba is due to release his debut album Mi Mandela later this month.

Elba wrote and produced the album, which draws heavy inspiration from South African music and Nelson Mandela.

The actor, best known for his role as Mandela in the hit movie The Long Walk to Freedom, spoke about the inspiration behind the album during a visit to Cape Town this week.

"I was in South Africa for nearly a year, and, while researching the role for the film, I wanted to understand what music Mandela liked and in the process discovered the roots of South African music.

"The album is a tribute to Madiba and my dad."

Elba fell in love with all kinds of South African music, from roots to kwaito and Afrohouse.

The album was recorded between South Africa, London and Mali.

Elba joined forces with several local and international musicians, includingJames Blake, Mumford & Sons, Mahotella Queens, Thandiswa Mazwai, Spoek Mathambo, DJ Spoko and Nothembi Mkhwebane.

The album artwork is a handwritten letter and tribute to Elba's late father.

Aside from acting, Elba also produces, raps and DJs in his spare time. He says about his role in inspiring youth: "Whether I'm deeejaying, acting or writing, I always observe what the end game is. Achieving success is about staying focused on that one point at all times."

Mi Mandela is due for release on November 24.

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