Mdu aka TRP Biography: Age, Songs, Albums, Net Worth & Career

Everything to know about Mdu aka TRP Biography including his Age, Family, Songs, Albums, Net Worth & Career Highlights.

Keith Mduduzi Mangena, professionally known as Mdu aka TRP, is a renowned South African DJ, producer, and songwriter. Born on March 9, 1992, in Soweto, Gauteng, he has been instrumental in shaping the Amapiano genre, particularly through his innovative use of the log drum sound.

Profile/Personal Data

Full Name: Keith Mduduzi Mangena
Stage Name: Mdu aka TRP
Date of Birth: March 9, 1992
Age: 33 years (as of 2025)
Place of Birth: Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Occupation: DJ, Producer, Songwriter
Genre: Amapiano
Record Label: Piano Hub Records
Years Active: 2019 – Present
Collaborations: Bongza, Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Dinky Kunene, Semi Tee, Da Muziqal Chef, Mashudu, Nkulee 501, Stakev, Sipzzy, Skroef 28, Deeper Phil
Instruments: Keyboard, Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
Notable Albums:
- Two Sides of My Story (2022)
- Pretty Girls Love Amapiano (2021)
- Tales of the 2 Peers (2021)
- Pull Up Project (2020)
Popular Songs:
- “Jig Saw” (2023)
- “Amaqhawe” (2023)
- “Ovii” (2023)
- “Yama” (2023)
- “Ice Cream” (2023)
Net Worth: Approximately $700,000 (as of 2025)
Affiliations: Piano Hub Records, Amapiano Community
Awards & Recognition: Acknowledged by DJ Maphorisa in 2023 for contributions to Amapiano
Social Media: Active on major platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Mdu aka TRP, born as Keith Mduduzi Mangena on March 9, 1992, in the culturally rich township of Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa, was raised amidst a thriving musical landscape. Soweto, known for its vibrant township culture and deep musical heritage, played a significant role in shaping his artistic journey. From a young age, Mdu was surrounded by the sounds of jazz, Kwaito, and deep house, genres that heavily influenced the budding musician.

Growing up, Mdu was exposed to a variety of musical genres, but it was the rise of Amapiano that truly captivated his interest. Amapiano, a genre characterized by its soulful melodies, jazzy elements, and heavy use of log drums, began to gain traction in the South African music scene during the early 2010s. Mdu was particularly drawn to the genre’s deep basslines and laid-back groove, prompting him to experiment with music production software.

Despite financial constraints, Mdu spent countless hours learning how to produce music using basic equipment and digital audio workstations. He began by creating house beats and gradually transitioned to Amapiano, a genre that allowed him to fuse deep house rhythms with jazz and lounge influences. His unique style began to take shape, marked by mellow piano chords, haunting melodies, and the signature log drum sound that would later define his production.

Mdu’s passion for music eventually led him to collaborate with fellow producer Bongza, who shared similar musical interests. The duo began creating beats together, honing their skills, and developing a signature sound that blended soulful Amapiano with contemporary house music. This partnership proved to be a turning point in Mdu’s career, as it provided him with the creative space to refine his production style and carve a niche for himself in the burgeoning Amapiano scene.

Career Breakthrough and Collaborations

Mdu aka TRP’s career breakthrough came with the release of the hit track “Ubumnandi,” featuring Nia Pearl and Kabza De Small. The song quickly gained widespread popularity, amassing over 10 million streams across major platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube. This success not only brought him into the spotlight but also positioned him as one of the rising stars in the Amapiano genre.

Following the success of “Ubumnandi,” Mdu aka TRP caught the attention of Kabza De Small, a pioneer of Amapiano and the founder of Piano Hub Records. Recognizing Mdu’s exceptional talent and unique production style, Kabza De Small signed him as the first official artist under the label in 2020. This move was a pivotal moment in Mdu’s career, as it provided him with access to top-tier production facilities, industry connections, and a platform to showcase his work on a larger scale.

Under Piano Hub, Mdu aka TRP began collaborating with some of the biggest names in the Amapiano scene, including DJ Maphorisa, Stakev, Nkulee 501, Semi Tee, Dinky Kunene, Da Muziqal Chef, Mashudu, Sipzzy, Skroef 28, and Deeper Phil. These collaborations not only expanded his musical reach but also helped him refine his sound, incorporating diverse elements from jazz, soulful house, and deep bass rhythms.

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One of his standout projects was the 2021 album “Pretty Girls Love Amapiano,” a collaborative effort with Kabza De Small. The album featured multiple chart-topping hits that showcased Mdu’s signature production style — a fusion of mellow piano chords, deep basslines, and soulful melodies. The project received critical acclaim and solidified Mdu’s reputation as a versatile producer capable of creating both club anthems and smooth, laid-back tracks.

In addition to album projects, Mdu aka TRP has consistently released singles that have further cemented his position as a top-tier producer in the Amapiano genre. Tracks like “Yama,” “Ice Cream,” “Ovii,” and “Amaqhawe” have all garnered significant airplay and streaming numbers, showcasing his ability to deliver hit after hit.

Despite his rapid rise to fame, Mdu remains committed to pushing the boundaries of Amapiano, experimenting with new sounds while staying true to the genre’s roots. His collaborations with artists like Nkulee 501 and Bongza continue to produce chart-topping tracks, solidifying his status as one of the genre’s most influential and innovative producers.

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Discography: Albums and Notable Tracks

Mdu aka TRP has established himself as a prolific producer and artist within the Amapiano genre, releasing a series of acclaimed albums and hit singles that have solidified his reputation as a pioneer of the log drum sound. His projects showcase a unique blend of soulful rhythms, deep house elements, and Amapiano’s signature log drum, a sound that has become synonymous with his name.

Albums

Two Sides of My Story (2022)
This album served as a major turning point in Mdu aka TRP’s career, encapsulating his growth as a producer and artist. The project features collaborations with industry heavyweights like Bongza, Kabza De Small, and DJ Maphorisa. Tracks such as “Broken Trust,” “Story To Tell,” and “Darkness Reigns” reflect Mdu’s ability to merge emotional storytelling with his signature Amapiano beats. The album was both a commercial and critical success, amassing millions of streams across major platforms.
Pretty Girls Love Amapiano (2021)
A collaborative project with Kabza De Small, this album was a defining moment in the Amapiano scene. It features infectious party anthems and laid-back grooves, highlighting the duo’s synergy. Notable tracks include “Thokoza,” “Piano Hub,” and “Loving You.” The album further propelled Mdu aka TRP into the mainstream, making him a household name in the South African music industry.
Tales of the 2 Peers (2021)
Another joint project with Bongza, this album showcased their creative chemistry and ability to craft deeply resonant Amapiano tracks. Songs like “Visionary,” “Silent Whisper,” and “Dlala Piano” became instant hits, earning widespread airplay on local and international radio stations. The project solidified Mdu and Bongza as a formidable duo within the genre.
Pull Up Project (2020)
Mdu aka TRP’s debut project, “Pull Up Project,” was a raw and experimental body of work that introduced his distinctive sound to the Amapiano scene. The album features early tracks that hinted at his potential, such as “Come Closer,” “Log Drum Anthem,” and “In The Mood.” This project laid the foundation for his rise to prominence.

Selected Singles

Mdu aka TRP’s discography also includes a plethora of singles that have dominated Amapiano charts and playlists:

“Jig Saw” (2023): A hypnotic dance track that became a staple in clubs across South Africa.
“Amaqhawe” (2023): A soulful anthem featuring lush piano chords and Mdu’s signature log drum technique.
“Ovii” (2023): A collaborative hit with Bongza that showcases their creative synergy.
“Yama” (2023): A groove-infused track that blends deep house with Amapiano influences.
“Ice Cream” (2023): A playful, upbeat song that gained popularity on TikTok and social media platforms.
“Stufuza” (2022): A melancholic track with emotive piano melodies and a haunting vocal sample.
“DALI” (2022): An Amapiano banger characterized by a heavy bassline and catchy vocal hooks.
“Ketang” (2021): A fan-favorite that helped establish Mdu aka TRP as a versatile Amapiano producer.

In 2024, he released “The Originator” EP, a project that further solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the Amapiano genre. The EP featured standout tracks like “Soulmate,” “Evolve,” and “Legacy,” each reflecting his evolving sound and continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of Amapiano.

Influence and Recognition

Mdu aka TRP’s impact on Amapiano cannot be overstated. In 2023, DJ Maphorisa publicly praised him as one of the genre’s key architects and personally gifted him R100,000, urging other artists to show similar appreciation for his contributions. The gesture sparked a wave of support from the Amapiano community, with fellow musicians and fans collectively pledging over R1 million to honor his work. This recognition not only underscored Mdu aka TRP’s influence in the industry but also positioned him as a key figure in the genre’s evolution.

Moreover, Mdu aka TRP’s ability to blend deep house elements with Amapiano’s log drum sound has earned him critical acclaim, with several publications hailing him as the “Originator of Log Drum.” His music has also gained international traction, with tracks featured on major streaming playlists and South African music charts.

Net Worth and Personal Life

As of 2025, Mdu aka TRP’s net worth is estimated to be around $700,000, a significant rise fueled by his music royalties, live performances, and production credits. His growing influence in the music industry has also opened doors for brand endorsements, DJ gigs, and international collaborations, further boosting his financial profile.

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Despite his success, Mdu aka TRP remains humble and focused on his craft. He continues to prioritize musical innovation, experimenting with new sounds while staying true to his Amapiano roots. His dedication to perfecting his craft has not only solidified his place as a top Amapiano producer but also ensured his continued relevance in the South African and global music scenes.

Mdu aka TRP is known to keep a low profile regarding his personal life, choosing instead to let his music speak for itself. Nevertheless, his commitment to uplifting young, upcoming artists in the Amapiano genre reflects his desire to give back to the community that has embraced and elevated his career.