Far from a newcomer to the music scene, he has produced for many of South Africa’s most recognised artists, including Loyiso (theme song to the movie, Khumba), Danny K, Gang of Instrumentals, Auriol Hays, Chad Saaiman, and Black Noise, to name a few.
A number of these productions have won and been nominated for Metro FM and SAMA awards and have topped radio charts.
Mr. Mallum has produced music for advertisements (local and international), TV show events (including the Channel O Awards), as well as scoring for movies and documentaries.
I caught up with Mr.Mallum to find out what music means to him and more…
When are you happiest?
When I’m alone in my own headspace, creating. That, and spending time with my wife and son.
What does music mean to you?
Music is emotion. It could make you feel happy, sad, indestructible, angry, etc. To me, creating music has always been that, an extension of the emotion I’m feeling at the time.
Have you had any funny moments on stage?
Being a producer, I am not on stage too often. That said, I did a show (looong ago) where I agreed to do the rap to a cover song that another artist was singing that night. The performance was going great until it came to my part, when I realised I didn’t know ANY of the words. I just mumbled my way through the part, and vowed never to set foot on stage ever again.
Who are your heroes?
I’d have to say my dad, firstly. He introduced me to great music and music equipment (multitrack reel to reel tape machines, graphic equalizers, etc.).
Producers – Quincy Jones, Dr Dre, Pharrel.
Songwriters/Artists – Bee Gees, ABBA, Carpenters, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Britney Spears…(kidding). There are lots more.
What is your most treasured possession?
This is a difficult one. I’d have to say my Marvel “Vault” File. It contains the whole history of comic books since it’s inception, and has some really great copies of the original concept drawings of some characters, etc.
It’s your round, what are you drinking?
Probably Coke. If I’m really in the mood for something a lot stronger, I’d go with Ginger Beer. Ha-ha. I don’t drink
There are quite a few, but if I had to select one randomly it would be Baby One More Time – Britney Spears…(kidding). I’d go with Overjoyed – Stevie Wonder.
Pick five words to describe yourself?
Patient
Dedicated
Crazy (most times)
Kid-at-heart (made that into one word)
Creative
What makes you stand out?
I can’t say for sure, because I just do me. Based on client feedback its: production/sound quality, my philosophy on what sounds good, and my good nature. I’ve also been told I have a trusted ear.
I’d probably be doing something in design, graphics, or architecture. I’d definitely pursue animation and filmmaking.
Back to the Future 1 and 2
To record and work at Abbey Road Studios
The price of equipment and software.
Being consumed by things I think is important now only to one-day realise I’ve missed out on what was really important in life.
Getting enough sleep.
Eye of the Tiger. Why?…because…Eye of the Tiger.
In studio, creating…which is what I am about to do right now.
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