DJ Jabs, Da Grooveman to drop 12-track album

SOUTH Africa-based producer DJ Jabs and Da Grooveman are set to release their 12-track album, House Always Wins, on Friday. The album features a diverse collection of tracks, including Sofa Silahlane featuring Bara, Konke Kuzolunga, Pfugama Unamate, Amany featuring Ntu2kay and Vuyo Brown, Mota featuring MJ Sings, Batidzai Mwenje, U Dokotela featuring Butholezwe, Uyu Ndiye – DJ Jabs & Da Grooveman and Ndikaita Mari

Speaking about the project, DJ Jabs described it as a collaborative effort brewed in the “City of Kings and Queens” (Bulawayo).
“Tomorrow is the big day when the album will be available for streaming, downloads, and on radio. We’re also working on visuals, which will follow around February,” said DJ Jabs.

He shared the album’s broad appeal.
“This album is tailored for everyone. It features gospel songs, inspirational tracks, love songs, and club anthems, with clean lyrics to accommodate all audiences.”

Originally intended to be a shorter EP, the project evolved into a full-length album to reach a broader audience.
“This is an Afro-house/Afro-tech dance album. Initially, it was set to be an EP for release in December 2024, but we decided to expand it into an album, which delayed the release. The inspiration came from the fast-growing house music culture in Bulawayo, Harare, and internationally. Events like Garden of House, House in CBD, and BYO Shutdown have shown that house music has a vibrant following, despite challenges in the local music scene,” DJ Jabs explained.

He added that their aim was to address the scarcity of locally produced house music in indigenous languages.
“House music is loved globally, but quality house music in our local dialects, like IsiNdebele and Shona, is limited. Many songs played at events are foreign. This album bridges that gap.”

The duo also hopes the album will reach international audiences.
“When we made this album, we had Zimbabwe and the international market in mind. The IsiNdebele and Shona lyrics, paired with Afro-house and Afro-tech beats, create a unique sound that appeals both locally and globally. Despite challenges like power cuts and tight schedules, we pushed through, thanks to our determination and support from our sponsor, IBM (Ideal Black Man),” said DJ Jabs.

Da Grooveman echoed these sentiments, highlighting the seamless creative process.
“In my 15-year career, I’ve never been part of such a swift and collaborative process. Initially, I was skeptical about extending the EP into an album within the given timeframe, but we exceeded expectations. The quality speaks for itself,” said Da Grooveman.

The duo plans to embark on a promotional tour, with dates to be announced soon. – Follow Mthabisi Tshuma on X: @mthabisi_mthire