The release of Rise is a continuation of the Fassie legacy and it is a double coup for Universal Music South Africa, which has acquired the entire Brenda Fassie-catalogue as well. “We are extremely proud to continue the Fassie-legacy at Universal Music South Africa,” says says Lindelani Mkhize, Universal Music South Africa’s Group executive director for South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa, including A&R.

Mkhize, adds, “Our motto is ‘It’s not a party without us’ – and we are certainly staying true to that motto, if you consider the talent within our stable. This is especially true if you consider the remarkable gift of Brenda Fassie that so evidently shines on in Bongani. Rise is a testament to that fact.”

Brenda Fassie remains one of the most popular singers to ever come out of South Africa. She was known best for her songs, Weekend Special and Too Late for Mama, and she was dubbed 'The Madonna of the Townships' by Time magazine in 2001. She was not only idolised in the country of her birth, but also recognised as an international icon. Her death in 2004 shook the country, and subsequently sent her 19-year-old son reeling.

But the despairing youngster has come a long way from the time of his legendary mother’s tragic passing. Bongz, as he is affectionately referred to, inherited his mother’s talent and was exposed to a true traditional and music orientated background, ranging from Pop to Jazz, from a very young age. His first solo effort, African Boy, at the tender age of 10, showcased this young man's extraordinary talent, even before he reached his teens.

Later on, he produced two albums with his group, JOZI which included him, Da L.E.S and Ishmael. After winning numerous awards at MTV and Channel O Awards, his ambition eventually led him to starting his own music company, Fassie Records.

His years of work in the music industry resulted in growing into an all time multi-faceted musician. The 29-year-old star is a multi-instrumentalist playing piano; drums; guitar and congas, while also being an accomplished dancer, music producer, singer and rapper.

The producer has shared his talents with the world, playing alongside Snoop Dogg and producing tracks for Will.i.am from Black Eyed Peas as well as featuring and producing various tracks with Keith Murray.

With the release of Rise, Fassie is set to cement his reputation as an international superstar. All of the tracks on Rise were written or co-written by Fassie and it features a few great collaborations with talented musicians such as Snegga, J Lawless and Pro Kid, to name just a few.

For more information on Bongani Fassie, visit his Facebook page or follow him on Twitter.