By Burnett Munthali
In a groundbreaking moment for the Malawian and Zambian music industries, Banapwanya—a powerful collaboration between Malawi’s Mix Kell Kelly and Zambia’s Yo Maps and Prince Luv—has surpassed 25 million views on YouTube just one year after its release.
This milestone marks a major achievement not only for the artists involved but also for the regional music scene, showcasing the growing appeal and reach of Southern African talent on the global stage.
Banapwanya, which translates to “They Have Crushed” in Chichewa, is a soulful Afro-pop ballad that explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and emotional resilience, striking a deep emotional chord with audiences across Africa.
Mix Kell Kelly, known in Malawi for his raw vocal strength and lyrical depth, takes the lead on the track with a heartfelt performance that captures the pain of lost love.
Zambia’s Yo Maps, one of the most streamed and decorated artists in the region, adds his signature smooth harmonies and heartfelt delivery, elevating the song’s appeal with his undeniable star power.
Prince Luv, another rising sensation from Zambia, complements the collaboration with his soft and expressive vocals, offering a delicate counterbalance to the intensity of the lead verses.
The music video, directed with cinematic brilliance and released on YouTube in July 2024, tells a visually compelling story of love gone wrong, filmed between Lilongwe and Lusaka to reflect the cross-border spirit of the song.
Its authentic storyline, relatable emotion, and high production value helped the video go viral shortly after release, gaining traction not only in Malawi and Zambia but also in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, and the diaspora communities abroad.
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Facebook Reels, played a vital role in the song’s rapid spread, with thousands of users creating breakup-themed content using the song’s chorus and bridge.
Music critics and fans alike have praised Banapwanya for its lyrical richness and musical arrangement, hailing it as one of the most moving and relatable African collaborations of recent years.
The song’s success is also symbolic of a cultural bridge between Malawi and Zambia, two nations that share not only a border but also deep musical and linguistic ties.
Streaming experts suggest that the 25 million views represent more than just numbers—they reflect the emotional connection that fans have formed with the song, as well as the growing demand for authentic, well-produced African music content.
For Mix Kell Kelly, this moment marks a defining point in his career, propelling him from a local talent to an international voice of emotional storytelling through music.
For Yo Maps and Prince Luv, the collaboration affirms their influence beyond Zambia and their ability to uplift emerging voices while still delivering excellence.
As the music video continues to rack up views, and the song dominates playlists on Spotify, Boomplay, Apple Music, and Audiomack, Banapwanya stands tall as a true African success story.
This record-breaking achievement reminds us that when artists from different cultures come together with sincerity and passion, they can produce magic that transcends borders and speaks to hearts everywhere.
