The vibrant rhythms of Tulum are set to resonate with the beats of the global music scene as Shimza, the rising Tembisa-born talent, takes center stage at the renowned Zamna venue on December 30th. This electrifying event, hosted by the prolific Switzerland electronic act Adriatique, promises an unforgettable experience with a stellar lineup featuring DJ talents such as Innellea, Shimza, and Ivory.
Shimza, whose musical journey traces back to the age of 15, has carved a remarkable path in the world of house music, earning accolades that echo far beyond the borders of South Africa. From winning high-profile DJ competitions to hosting the expansive One Man Show charity event, Shimza’s ascent to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. His journey includes signing with Black Coffee’s Soulistic Music label, achieving an Ibiza residency at Privilege, and releasing music with iconic artists like CamelPhat and Luciano.
Under the moniker of Ashley Raphala, Shimza’s influence extends beyond the DJ booth. In 2020, he launched KUNYE, a platform that serves as a bridge between South Africa’s emerging producers and the global stage. KUNYE, meaning “together” in Xhosa/Zulu, embodies Shimza’s commitment to uniting people through the universal language of music. The imprint hosts weekly livestream sessions, showcasing Afro Tech Sounds and amplifying the label’s mission.
Shimza’s musical prowess goes hand in hand with his philanthropic endeavors. In 2009, he initiated the One Man Show in Soweto, raising funds for underprivileged children. What began as a local charity event has grown into an annual spectacle, attracting over 25,000 attendees and featuring top-tier artists like AKA, Black Coffee, and Black Motion. The success of OMS transcended borders, reaching audiences in Portugal, Spain, and France.
Joining Soulistic Music in 2013 marked another milestone for Shimza, placing him among South Africa’s most revered artists. His ability to seamlessly blend genres and styles showcased in performances at Boiler Room Johannesburg and RESISTANCE Cape Town, has left dancefloors worldwide in awe. His international journey includes captivating audiences in New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Manchester, and Sicily.
Shimza’s impact extends beyond the music industry. In 2016, he made history on Nelson Mandela Day by becoming the first artist to perform on the World Heritage Site of Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. This groundbreaking livestream performance, aimed at raising funds for charitable foundations, fused music, and culture to engage global audiences.
Renowned for his deep and rhythmic strain of underground music, Shimza’s discography includes the Shimuzic album, collaborations like “Uwrongo” with Prince Kaybee, Black Motion, and Ami Faku, and EPs on labels such as Cadenza and Knee Deep In Sound. His imprint, KUNYE, continues to evolve, welcoming music legends like Louie Vega and “Afro Futurist” Floyd Lavine.
As we anticipate Shimza’s electrifying performance at Zamna Tulum on December 30th, it’s clear that his journey from the streets of Tembisa to the global stage is a testament to the transformative power of music. Through KUNYE and philanthropic initiatives like the One Man Show, Shimza not only entertains but also unites and uplifts communities.
In a world where the language of music transcends borders, Shimza stands as a beacon, weaving a tapestry of beats that connect us all. The stage is set, the rhythm is calling, and Tulum eagerly awaits the sonic journey that Shimza is poised to deliver on the Zamna stage this December.
