M2KR is MELT 2000 REVISITED:
Introduction:
MELT 2000 was on the forefront of World Music and Jazz in South Africa with its founder Robert Trunz operating the label initially out of the UK. With its roots deeply embedded in the rich soil of post-apartheid South Africa, MELT 2000 was not just a record label but a cultural phenomenon. Artist names like Busi Mhlongo, Moses Taiwa Molelekwa and in the year 2024 most importantly the legendary King of the Zulu Guitar – MADALA KUNENE. The story of MELT 2000 cannot be told without doing a proper search on Madala Kunene and all his collaborations but also his early involvement with evolving generations of electronic music producers who carry on remixing his work and getting him involved in collaborations.
This legacy is reimagined and revitalised through M2KR, bringing a fresh perspective to these timeless sounds.
The Genesis of MELT 2000:
Founded in the UK in 1994 by Swiss-born music maestro Robert Trunz, MELT 2000, an acronym for “Musical Energy Loud Truth,” began as a beacon of cultural integration on an African and international level. Trunz’s expertise, coupled with a deep love for South Africa and his passion for rhythms and global electronica, helped MELT 2000 to make a major impact on the local music scene, showcasing talents like Busi Mhlongo, Moses Taiwa Molelekwa, Amampondo, Mabi Gabriel Thobejane, Madala Kunene, and many others who would become legends in their own right.
M2KR: A Legacy Revisited:
30 years later M2KR emerges as ‘MELT 2000 Revisited,’ a tribute to the original label’s spirit and innovation. This new chapter is about redefining and extending the MELT 2000 experience to a new generation. By inviting renowned and upcoming producers to remix and reinterpret the classic MELT 2000 catalogue, M2KR is creating a bridge between the past and the present, honouring the timeless excellence of the original artists while adding contemporary relevance.
The Cultural Impact of MELT 2000:
MELT 2000’s stood for social and cultural change, providing a platform for artists to express the dreams of a post-apartheid era. The label’s diverse catalogue, featuring collaborations from Africa, Brazil, Cuba, and Europe, showcased musical talent and told stories of struggle, hope, and unity.
M2KR: The Future of Musical Fusion:
The remix projects under M2KR are a testament to the enduring power of music to connect cultures and, more importantly, generations. This initiative ensures that the revolutionary spirit of ElectricMELT and MELT 2000 continues to inspire and influence the music landscape. M2KR, in essence, is more than a revival; it’s a celebration of a musical journey that began with MELT 2000 – the legacy of a label that broke boundaries and built bridges.
Call to Remix:
MELT 2000’s offshoot ELECTRIC M.E.L.T. released a series of Electronica between 1996 and 2012. A decade later, M2KR (MELT2000 REVISITED) started to re-release some of the albums of artists and remix tracks that were regarded by MELT 2000 fans as “MUSIC AHEAD OF ITS TIME”.
Re-Releases
At the same time, the label joined forces with Madala Kunene, the estate of the late Moses Taiwa Molelekwa and Busi Mhlongo to engage in a new REMIX project (https://m2kr.co.za/new-releases/). The project keeps attracting some established names but lesser known Remixer and Producer talents (https://m2kr.co.za/remixers/)
in line with the original MELT 2000 body of thought. Artists and their work will once again be labelled MUSIC AHEAD OF ITS TIME.
References:
MELT 2000’s Founding and Evolution:
- Madala Kunene – The True African Bluesman ! www.madalakunene.com
- “MELT 2000 – the Story of a unique label for Southern Africa.” Medioq. Available at: www.medioq.com/ZA/Unknown/565158853605446/MELT-2000—the-Story-of-a-unique-label-for-Southern-Africa.
“M.E.L.T. 2000 / M2KR Label | Releases.”
Discogs. Available at:https://www.discogs.com/label/378402-MELT-2000-Ltd
