Fatso 98 Expands His Creative Universe With The XO Effect 3

South African Deep House continues to evolve through artists who refuse to compromise their sound for trends, and Fatso 98 is once again proving why he remains one of the genre’s most exciting independent voices. The Mpumalanga-born producer and DJ is preparing to release The XO Effect 3, the latest instalment in his acclaimed EP series, arriving digitally on 29 May through his independent imprint, 98th World.

Known for his unmistakable producer tag “SHO” and his emotionally rich Deep House productions, Fatso 98 has steadily carved out a respected space within South Africa’s electronic music landscape. With The XO Effect 3, he continues a creative journey that began in 2023 when he launched the series as a platform for unrestricted artistic expression.

Pronounced The Sure Effect, the project was never intended to follow industry formulas or chase commercial expectations. Instead, the series was created to give Fatso 98 complete freedom to explore his sound authentically while collaborating with musicians who share the same passion for musical integrity. Following the success of the first two editions, the project naturally evolved into an annual release that now stands as a growing statement within the Deep House community.

The new six-track offering further showcases Fatso 98’s ability to balance soulful textures, underground grooves and contemporary South African influences. One of the standout moments on the EP is a bonus remix of an MDU aka TRP record alongside Brown Bread, a collaboration that highlights his versatility and his ability to transform Amapiano elements into immersive Deep House experiences without losing their original spirit.

Another recurring presence within The XO Effect universe is Deep Essentials, the Tembisa-based duo who return once again on a track titled “Ovi,” short for “Obvious.” Their continued involvement reinforces the collaborative nature of the series and the strong creative chemistry that has become synonymous with the project.

Behind the music is Tshegofatso Mpyatona, better known as Fatso 98, a self-taught producer from Vaalbank, Mpumalanga, who began shaping his sound at just 14 years old. Over the years, he has built an impressive catalogue that includes releases through respected labels such as Stay True Sounds under Defected Records, Soul Candi, and his own 98th World imprint.

His growing influence has also been amplified through collaborations with notable names including Jazzuelle, Artwork Sounds and Idols SA vocalist Brandon Dhludhlu. Fatso 98’s breakout single “Ngifuna Wena” became one of his defining records, earning rotation on major stations including Metro FM, Capricorn FM and Umhlobo Wenene FM while also charting on Apple Music’s Top 100 Dance Chart. The single was further recognised by Apple Music’s editorial team as one of the standout records of 2024.

What makes Fatso 98’s trajectory particularly compelling is his unwavering commitment to independence and creative identity. At a time when many artists feel pressure to follow viral trends, The XO Effect series stands as a reminder that authenticity still resonates deeply within South African dance music culture.

As The XO Effect 3 prepares to reach listeners, Fatso 98 continues to position himself as more than just a producer creating records for the moment. He is building a world rooted in artistic freedom, sonic depth and the continued growth of Deep House in South Africa.

With every release, the “SHO” signature becomes less of a tag and more of a stamp of quality.