Crafting Dreams on a Phone: DJY ZAN SA’s Inspirational Story
In a special edition of #YanosPlugIGLive, hosted by the talented Naledi Rabotapi, the vibrant and innovative DJY ZAN SA shared his journey and insights, captivating the audience with his inspiring story and musical prowess.
DJY ZAN SA, a name synonymous with innovation in the South African music scene, hails from Soweto, Orlando West. His real name is Zinzan Ndlela and his impact on the music industry is unmistakable. From humble beginnings, producing music on his phone at the age of 11, to collaborating with industry giants like Mr JazziQ, DJY ZAN SA’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance.
The Early Days: Crafting Dreams on a Phone
DJY ZAN SA’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Starting with nothing but a smartphone, he taught himself the intricacies of music production. “I was just a teenager with a dream and a phone,” he recalls. The simplicity of his setup did not deter him; rather, it fuelled his creativity. Each beat, each melody, was a step closer to his dreams. This period of self-discovery and experimentation laid the foundation for his future success.
A Leap into the Big Leagues: Collaborating with Mr JazziQ
From producing music in his bedroom to collaborating with industry giants, DJY ZAN SA’s ascent in the music world has been nothing short of meteoric. His partnership with Mr JazziQ, a luminary in the South African music scene, marked a significant milestone. “Working with Mr JazziQ has been a transformative experience,” DJY ZAN SA reflects. This collaboration not only honed his skills but also expanded his horizons, exposing him to new sounds and techniques. It was a journey of growth, shaping his approach to music and fuelling his aspirations.
Black Is Brown: A Musical Revolution
The relationship with Black Is Brown and Mr JazziQ was unforeseen. Introduced through mutual acquaintances in the industry, DJY ZAN SA quickly found a home in the collective. “Joining Black Is Brown felt like finding my tribe,” he says. The synergy was palpable, and the collective’s atmosphere resonated deeply with him. The experience, thus far, has been exhilarating and enriching, pushing him to explore new creative avenues.
‘G4SSED’ is now available – listen here! CLICK HERE
A Glimpse into the Creative Process
During the live interview, DJY ZAN SA provided a fascinating glimpse into his creative process. “Inspiration can strike at any moment,” he said. “I could be walking down the street, and suddenly a melody pops into my head.” He described how he captures these moments of inspiration, often recording voice notes or jotting down ideas on his phone. These initial sparks are then developed in his studio, where he blends traditional elements with modern beats to create his signature sound.
‘Hamba No Zani’: A New Chapter in Mozambican Sound
DJY ZAN SA’s latest single, ‘Hamba No Zani’, is a testament to his evolving sound. Known for pioneering the Black Is Brown Mozambican sound, this track represents a fusion of old and new. “With ‘Hamba No Zani’, I wanted to honour the roots while pushing the boundaries,” he explains. The track is a blend of traditional Mozambican sound and contemporary beats, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and innovative.
The Creative Alchemy Behind ‘Hamba No Zani’
Creating ‘Hamba No Zani’ was a journey of blending the old with the new. “I started with old vocal samples that resonated with me,” DJY ZAN SA shares. He meticulously crafted a new beat around these samples, ensuring that the essence of the original vocals was preserved while infusing them with fresh energy. The result is a track that is rich in history yet modern in its appeal.
‘G4SSSED’: A Major Milestone
Fans have eagerly awaited a full project from DJY ZAN SA, and on April 12, 2024, their prayers were answered with the release of his 10-track E.P “G4SSSED.” This project showcases DJY ZAN SA’s versatility and innate musicality, with most tracks solely produced by him, except for “Let’s Go,” which features Musiqgal Stylist. “G4SSSED” is a reflection of his journey, capturing the highs and lows, the struggles, and the triumphs. The EP is a reflection of his journey, capturing the highs and lows, the struggles, and the triumphs.
The Making of ‘G4SSED’
One of the highlights of the conversation was DJY ZAN SA’s insight into the making of his upcoming EP, ‘G4SSED’. “This EP is a reflection of my journey and experiences,” he explained. Each track is carefully crafted to tell a story, with influences ranging from his early days in Johannesburg to his recent collaborations. The process involved late-night studio sessions,
countless revisions, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. “I wanted every track to be special, to resonate with listeners on a deep level,” he said.
Collaborations that Inspire
The ‘G4SSED’ EP features collaborations with Mpho Spizzy and Musiqal_Stylist, two artists who share DJY ZAN SA’s passion for innovation. “Working with Mpho Spizzy and Musiqal_Stylist was a thrilling experience,” he recalls. Their unique styles and perspectives added depth to the EP, resulting in a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions.
Zan’Ten: The Power of Collaboration
DJY ZAN SA’s collaboration with DJ Y Ma’Ten, forming the duo Zan’Ten, has been another significant chapter in his career. “Zan’Ten allows me to explore different facets of my creativity,” he explains. The synergy between the two artists results in music that is diverse and dynamic, influencing his solo work in profound ways.
Building a Legacy
As DJY ZAN SA continues to make his mark on the music world, he is also focused on building a lasting legacy. “I want to be remembered not just for my music, but for the impact I’ve made,” he shared. This impact extends beyond his tracks to his efforts in promoting inclusivity, supporting young artists, and pushing the boundaries of the Black Is Brown Mozambican sound.
Future Aspirations
Looking to the future, DJY ZAN SA has big plans. As a solo artist, he aims to continue pushing the boundaries of his music, experimenting with new sounds, and reaching new heights. Within his collaborations, he hopes to inspire and be inspired, contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.
One of the key themes DJY ZAN SA emphasized during his conversation with Naledi Rabotapi was the importance of authenticity. “Staying true to myself and my roots has been crucial,” he said passionately. “It’s easy to get lost in the industry, but I believe that the best music comes from the heart.” This authenticity is palpable in every track he produces, resonating deeply with listeners who appreciate his genuine approach to music.
DJY ZAN SA’s journey from producing music on a phone to becoming a renowned artist is a story of passion, perseverance, and innovation. Through his music, he continues to break barriers, championing inclusivity and creating sounds that resonate with audiences around the world. As he looks to the future, his dedication to his craft and his vision for a more inclusive industry remain unwavering.
Watch Full Interview
For those eager to delve deeper into DJY ZAN SA’s inspiring journey and gain firsthand
insights, watch the full “Yanos Plug IG live” session hosted by the talented Naledi Rabotapi of the Yanos
Plug here