It seems that especially after urbanisation, globalisation, 4IR and COVID-19, there’s an undeniable thread that binds us all — separation anxiety. Each of us, in our own way, has encountered the pervasive ache of distance, and the yearning for a loved one who isn’t there. This shared narrative transcends cultural boundaries and it’s no wonder…
That Tuesday Funk takes place every last Tuesday of the month at The Plug on 7th Avenue in Melville, Johannesburg. Originally, it was held at Hell’s Kitchen on the same street until that place shut down. Established just after COVID in July 2021 by Siyabonga Mthembu of The Brother Moves On and DJ extraordinaire Jab…
Ever since I listened to Solarkenji’s album notes, I will not lie, I have found myself going down a bit of a rabbit hole as far as South Africa’s underground music scene is concerned. Rather than stumbling upon this musician’s music on my own, I was persuaded by his manager to give it a listen…
This place has insane energy and a distinctively effortless cool that flows through the streets. It’s no wonder that this inexplicable local flair is increasingly resonating globally and major international brands are acknowledging the unique cool factor that defines South Africa. As more brands come knocking, it means more to us than mere recognition; it’s…
On Monday morning, I had a Zoom interview with Nakhane and noticed that it was becoming a happy habit. The artist was generous enough to share new details about their busy schedule, upcoming concert at the Lyric Theatre, and exciting directorial debut. On the new film, Nakhane shared, “I wrote it about two years ago…
uKhoiKhoi is a live-looping duo that blends opera, indigenous chants, and praise poetry. Their sound, which they describe as “indigenous electro” is a fusion of traditional and contemporary instruments. uKhoiKhoi’s name pays homage to the KhoiSan tribe that once thrived in Southern Africa, but it is the vibrant city of Johannesburg that inspires the duo’s…
Lately, I’ve been getting so tired of my own music. My friends and I came to the conclusion that TikTok, and all its slowed and reverb versions of mainstream (often good) songs that are used in viral trends, is the reason that new music doesn’t hit the same anymore. So, naturally, I’m always interested when…
BubblegumClub is proud to announce that today, South African multidisciplinary artist Muzi’s fifth studio album uMUZI is officially released through Fool’s Gold. This autobiographical collection explores Muzi’s personal universe and the journey that shaped it. The artist’s musical odyssey began amidst the rolling hills and coastal plains of Empangeni, a township just 140 kilometres north…
South African musician Bongeziwe Mabandla has carved a remarkable path in the world of music and artistry. With a growing list of accolades, an expanding global audience, and a unique blend of Xhosa lyrics, folk melodies, and experimental sounds, Mabandla’s journey is a testament to the power of music to transcend language and culture. The…
Ghanaian rapper E.L is back with a seven-track extended play (EP) album titled “The Teacher”. Released on 8 September, the EP pays homage to the Azonto music sound. Through the EP, E.L’s fulfils his promise to his fans to be more active this year. Azonto is a Ghanaian music and dance genre that emerged in…
11 August 1973 is a special day for those who live, breathe and study a genre of music that is currently the most profitable style of music in the world, as it is the day Hip-Hop was born. A genre of music that has since its inception captivated people with its use of the breakbeat…
Experimental electronic music is a genre that is identified by the use of manipulated sounds of nature, electronic instruments, and whatever is at the disposal of an artist. Technology has transformed the soundscape since its inception. Over the years this genre has evolved and blossomed, becoming an incredible force in the music industry that has…
