Mandu Soul - Entelechy (Album) + 10 Questions

Virginia R&B artist Mandu Soul has finally unveiled his debut album Entelechy, a 12-track collection that blends modern production with the timeless warmth of classic soul.

Five years in the making, the project serves as both a personal milestone and a statement of intent from the Lynchburg native. Inspired by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, Jodeci and Justin Timberlake, Mandu Soul draws from the genre’s rich heritage while carving out a sound of his own.

Named after the philosophical concept of achieving one’s full potential, Entelechy explores themes of love, self-discovery, doubt and personal growth. Across standout tracks including “The Silence”, “Last Dance” and “Anywhere You Are”, Mandu Soul delivers heartfelt storytelling, soulful melodies and a refreshing sense of authenticity.

The album also features fan favourites “Destiny”, “Can’t Wait” and “Friends”, creating a cohesive body of work that reflects both his artistic evolution and emotional honesty.

Speaking about the record, Mandu Soul explains that he wanted to bring “something real” back to music, creating songs with depth, meaning and soul in an era increasingly shaped by repetition and AI-driven content.

The result is an intimate yet relatable debut that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences while getting to know a promising new voice in contemporary R&B. With Entelechy, Mandu Soul proves that patience, purpose and authenticity can still make a powerful impact.

Mandu Soul sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1.So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Wow, let’s talk about the initial start. I’m telling my age. Growing up I listened to a wide range of music. My Grandad was always listening to the Motown classics or the Temptations. I vividly remember their version on “Silent Night” during the Christmas season. My Aunts and Uncles were more into Frankie Beverly and Maze, also Kool and the Gang, and Michael Jackson stayed in rotation too. They always wanted to put me on to what “Good Music” was. My Brother was more into the 90’s hip hop, Keith Sweat, Mary J. Blige, Tribe called Quest, Busta Rhymes, SWV. We used to listen to music on the radio and record it on cassette to listen to it on the walkman. These moulded my style.

Me personally I’m more part of the late 90’s and early 2000’s. We used to have to go to FYE and hear all the demo versions on the music coming out. It was like an event…similar to Blockbuster. I would be there listening to every new sound that would be up for release. I used to come come home and sing Usher or dance to Jagged Edge “Where the Party at”. To me that was a great time.

There were so many moments that Sparked a love for music. I sung in chorus at school and sang at church. I’ve always had some musical background. I loved the way music made me feel. When the words had meaning. I loved hitting the same notes that my favorite artists were singing and the hairs on your arm rise up a bit. I loved the thrill of the crowd after a set was finished. I never thought of making it a career though. It wasn’t it until I got a push from friends to take music seriously; That’s when things started moving and started writing my own music. I’m happy with the results and I’m excited to see how far I can take it.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Interesting. Lets put it into the universe. I’ll go with who I want to collaborate with in the future.

T-Pain: is most definitely on the list. I feel like the guy doesn’t miss. He makes hits.

Andre 3000: I have always liked his style and lyricism. I feel like I can create something worth telling a story, then he would be my raconteur.

Ludacris: He always brings the heat. Name a bad Luda Verse.

Childish Gambino: Brings creativity to his projects, and I’m not simply talking just music.

All my Virginia residents: Timbaland, Missy, Pharrell, Chris Brown.

Current artists: I want to say Leon Thomas, Doja Cat, Post Malone, Tems, Sinead Harnett, Mya, Olivia Dean, Jungle, Sabrina Carpenter for kicks!

In all, if I can grow from it, we can see eye to eye on a project and we can make something interesting. Then I’m all for it!

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

That’s under wraps for the moment. There are are few more things I wish to accomplish. However album #2 is promised to be on its way. I want to bring more quality work and collaborate with more people.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I would describe my sound as suave, spirited, and profound. I want to bring something that I think has been missing from the music scene. I want to be exceptional with my lyrics and captivating with the sound.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Simply getting my first album out! People don’t realise how much effort goes into projects. Outside looking in, it looks simple. I’m happy that I could see it through. I want to do so much more.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Don’t give up! You will hear “No” thousands of times. Keep at it. Be smart, do your research. I can’t sit here and act like I know everything myself. I’m an emerging artist myself. If you want to do it, then do it.

There are many people out here less talented than you who are making it simply because they took action.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

I really like Tori Kelly. I think she has an amazing voice. I always believed she deserves more props. Perhaps Sarah Kinsley. Tone Stith, Mesago, and Elmiene are some newer artist off the top of my head.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Till this day I still listen to J. Cole “Forest Hills Drive”. As well as The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. My playlist is a wide range of randomness.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

When I’m not making music. I live a pretty simple life. Quiet days out in nature are good enough for me. I workout enough to stay healthy. I want to get back into Yoga or Martial Arts. I enjoy a good book as well.

Usually it’s something I can learn from. History, philosophical or catch me reading Manga and different comics. I’m constantly finding new hobbies. I love Chess and other board games. You may get to see me doing more on my Socials.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Lets see…

1. A clear mind. I like to visualise how the performance will be. Then Listen to the beat to see what it’s telling me. Sometimes creativity hits in silence.

2. This is a two for one. My voice. Don’t forget to warmup and practice beforehand. You want a good performance. Also Water. Hydration can’t be neglected. Got me in the booth feeling like Bobby Boucher. You want your voice in good shape.

3. A good sound engineer. I’m going to get to the point where I’m a do it all myself. However, right now I need help. A good engineer can tell you what works and what doesn’t. They can also quickly pick up where you’re trying to go creatively. On top of that If you can have fun in the booth it makes for a great day. Who doesn’t want a good time and good results.