Zakes is planning an exciting homecoming show in Ballito on 1 January 2023 as part of the Ballito Big Week music festival.
What does a moment like this mean for your career [Grammy nomination]?
Thank you so much! For almost every musician across the globe, this type of recognition is everything! It has always been a dream to see myself nominated for a Grammy and it’s an amazing feeling. I feel deeply honoured.
How does it make you feel seeing proudly African music being so accepted and welcomed by the world stage?
Naturally, it’s a good feeling. I love it! We, as South Africans, make incredible music which deserves a global audience and I am thrilled to see the impact African music has had around the globe.
Why do you think Afrobeats has become such a massive genre right now?
Afrobeats is undeniable! You can barely help but to dance – it’s so good! I do think that social media platforms have also played a massive role in carrying this genre across the globe, helping it reach spaces it ordinarily wouldn’t have before. It’s certainly an exciting moment for African music.
What elements of a live show is important for you when you perform?
I love to connect with my audience every chance I get. Whether it be through teaching them a new dance on stage or helping them learn the lyrics to my songs. It just adds a personal touch. I love bringing that into my live performance and that connection really creates a magical moment on stage.
The festive season is full of live shows. Which show are you really excited to play?
Almost every single show I wholeheartedly look forward to. For me, it’s an opportunity to introduce myself and my sound to possibly someone who has never heard of me or my music before. However, I am especially looking forward to playing in Qatar at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and at the upcoming Ballito BIG Week festival as this will be my homecoming show. I love playing on home ground the most as this is where it all began for me.
What does 2023 have in store for you?
2023 is filled with more opportunity for me to share new music with the world, release my new album, step onto more world stages and create fruitful partnerships with world-class brands. Stay tuned!
