Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
In an industry full of familiar names, a new duo from Bulawayo, Deep Steppers – Emmanuel “Emmza” Mlilo and Prince Ngulube, are breaking through the crowded music scene with their experimental Afro-house and deep electronic debut EP.
Though they arrived at music through different paths, their meeting in 2023 marked the start of a partnership that would become something distinctly their own.
“I was already making hip-hop and Amapiano when I met Emmanuel, who was producing beats as well. We were fascinated by each other’s craft and decided to make a beat together. It turned out to be a good song, so we kept working.
“But we didn’t just want to make music that was already out there. We wanted something unique, a new wave of production,” Ngulube recalled.
From that collaboration, Deep Steppers was born in early 2024, a name representing their journey into the music scene and their focus on deep house, Afro-house, and electronic sounds.
For Emmza, music was never an obvious calling. Introduced to production in 2018 by a friend, he quickly found inspiration and direction, drawing from artistes like DJ Ace, Kabza De Small, Chronical Deep, and Zimbabwe’s own Nitefreak.
“I wasn’t born into a musical family. Music just found me. I never thought of it as a talent, but over time, I became passionate about it,” he said.
Ngulube’s story followed a different rhythm. Starting at 16 in school choirs and talent shows, he also worked as a DJ for events and prize-giving ceremonies. Though he explored sports like soccer and tennis and even chess, music remained his constant.
“For me, music is an art, an imagination. You may admire other artistes, but when it comes to creating your own sound, it’s a completely different field.”
Their upcoming EP tells the story of their journey, moving from love and parties to dancing and shared experiences, blending celebratory and soulful moments over pulsating Afro-house rhythms. Unlike many artistes today, Deep Steppers focus on collaboration, aiming to support fellow creatives instead of chasing fame.
Though they are only at the start of their career, the duo is determined to stand out, innovate, and carry Bulawayo’s music to new audiences.
Londile Moyo