Among the many South African artists that come and go over the years – most succeeding in creating a spark, but fizzling out just as quickly – MEAN MR MUSTARD is a name that continues to burn brightly. The unwavering determination of the band members has paid off. This is one of South Africa’s hardest working and most experienced bands. Making an impression from the start in 1995, through the club and festival circuits of South Africa, the four musicians are now reaping the rewards, with sell-ou...
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Among the many South African artists that come and go over the years – most succeeding in creating a spark, but fizzling out just as quickly – MEAN MR MUSTARD is a name that continues to burn brightly. The unwavering determination of the band members has paid off. This is one of South Africa’s hardest working and most experienced bands. Making an impression from the start in 1995, through the club and festival circuits of South Africa, the four musicians are now reaping the rewards, with sell-out shows and tours. Their first album, ‘Mean Mr Mustard’, released in 1996, was quickly recognised by the South African public and music industry, winning them a Best New Artist Award for the song “Cant Get Enough” and Best Song Nomination for the track “Waiting for a Miracle” at the First National Bank South African Music Awards in 1997. The message was clear – this was a band to watch. Their second album entitled “Only When It Rains”, released in 2000, featured 14 original tracks. It was recorded at G. Music Production Studios in Johannesburg and mastered in London. The title track went to no. 1 on the national radio station, 5FM Music, followed by their second single, “Without You”, which reached no. 2 on the same station. The band enjoyed success on all regional radio stations too, with No. 1 positions across the board. The songs once again feature the stunning vocal and song-writing talents of front-man Mark Beling. This album was a message of love & understanding and translated into great album sales for the band, plus two awards: a South African Crystal Award in the Best Band Category and another FNB South African Music Award for Best Album. Their third album entitled “Secret Places”, released in October 2002, took a slightly new musical direction. The songs are more guitar-based with a ‘live’ edge. Although not a live recording, the album gives MMM fans the intense sound and feeling of the live stage performances for which the band has become so well known. The first single of this album , “Secret Places”, reached no. 1 of 5FM Music and the second single, a cover of '‘Build Me Up Buttercup” has literally become a “National Anthem” in South Africa and still riding high on play-lists on all national and regional stations. Other standout tracks are, “Gonna Be Alright”, ”Higher” and “Waterfalls”.
