Kunye, the name of a record label founded by DJ Shimza as well as the name of the afro-tech segment in the tradition of Balcony Mix, is nothing new. But it appears to have gained national attention thanks to the Zakes Bantwini feature.
Zakes Batwini had delivered a live set and also shared his upcoming Kasango-featured song “Osama.” The song, which many listeners had no expected would pop during the musician’s set, provoked great excitement in South Africa.
Kunye, which gave Zakes Bantwini a platform for his set, was a response to the Balcony Mix session started by twin brothers Bandile and Banele (Major League DJz). While the Balcony Mix sessions focus on amapiano music, Kunye focuses on afro-tech.
So although amapiano might be the in-thing in South Africa, Shimza wants to make it clear that afro-tech is still relevant and winning. Co-opting Zakes Bantwini on the platform was a musical coup on Shimza’s part.
Zakes Bantwini ruled the decks during his set, and it’s hard not to love his performance. Not only is the songster focused on music, but he’s also got political ambitions as well. He recently revealed his dream of becoming South Africa’s minister of culture. Check out his set below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2Bz8N3imW8
