22 August 2023
Written by Don-Jitsu
MUSIC
TJ ZULU fuses Maskandi with Funk on NEW EP, BANTU FUNK
Meet Njabulo Zulu, better known as TJ ZULU is a multi instrumentalist, singer and songwriter from the East of Johannesburg. Born in 2003 in KZN, he grew up under the influence of Maskandi music. At the age of 10 he learned how to play the piano and the drums at church, which led to him later discovering his singing capabilities. He then moved to Johannesburg in 2012 where he joined a local band. His talents got him recognized by local artists such as Sun El Musician, whom he got to collab with on production.
He is now part of a team known for their authentic, home grown sounds called Eessaii, a group from the East of Johannesburg that majors in the Arts
On the 18th of August he dropped his first body of work in the form an EP titled BANTU FUNK. We got to chop it up with him over his latest release.
1. What was the inspiration behind Bantu Funk?
The project was inspired by the realization that there's not a lot of our own sounds out there, this mix of old and new elements is based on me intending to show or make people feel their essence
2. Tell us about the story behind the cover art?
The cover art is based on my knowledge and the teachings that I have received from certain people who are regarded as Spiritual, it's about knowledge of self and knowledge of the history of my people, who are from the Stars since there's a certain star on my face in the cover, plus blue is one of my favorite colors.
3. Three words that best describe the project?
Creative, fun and Enlightening
4. What was the collaboration experience like with the featured artists?
It was a blessing, I'm very close with people I worked with since we are connected by spirit it's a blessing to see all of us coming together to create.
5. The EP has African blends of sounds with modern elements, how important was it to represent your culture in this project?
It was very important ,as a person cannot go without the knowledge of self, for me I am a proud black person who is aware of our greatness and how we as people create music once in our original environment. I wanted those who listen to be aware of who I am.
6. What was your favorite moment of the project's creation?
Creating the song KITHI on the spot, that was a fine challenge.
7. Favourite song on the EP?
My favorite song on the EP is Nompilo because it's not something that people know me for , but I know how special it is and it will surely get appreciated
8.What do you hope to achieve with this EP?
For me to make people feel connected with their originality, true essence , to let them know how dope they are once they align with their true inner being and that will automatically bring greatness in whatever field of profession they are in.
BANTU FUNK is OUT NOW on ALL DSP's. If you haven't heard it yet, I suggest you run it up ASAP.
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Follow TJ ZULU on:
Listen to:BANTU FUNK
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By TJ ZULU