K Martin rubs shoulders with SA music giants

What began as a routine holiday in South Africa turned into a career-defining moment for Bulawayo-based artiste and producer Martin Dhliwayo, popularly known as K Martin, after he attended an exclusive listening party for Blaq Diamond member Danya Devs’ debut solo album, Bayede.

The event, held on January 23, officially unveiled the 18-track project, a rich blend of Afro-pop, hip-hop and soul.

For K Martin, whose music journey began in Mpopoma with projects such as Ghetto Hustler (2015) and On My Life, the experience offered rare insight into the professionalism and scale of South Africa’s music industry.
“I had travelled for vacation, just to unwind. Finding out about the listening session felt like perfect timing. It was an eye-opener and showed me the level at which the industry operates here,” he said.

Beyond the music, K Martin said he was struck by Danya Devs’ humility despite his continental success with Blaq Diamond, whose album Umuthi achieved multi-platinum status.
“What stood out was how grounded and welcoming he was. He made time to connect with everyone, shared the vision behind the album and treated people like family. That humility is something I’ve carried back home,” he said.

The session also doubled as a networking platform, with K Martin rubbing shoulders with some of South Africa’s top acts, including Sjava, Mawelele and Ndu Browns.
“Meeting those artistes was surreal and inspiring. Watching how they interact, collaborate and respect each other taught me a lot about professionalism and unity in the industry,” he said.

Bayede, a Zulu salute meaning “hail” or “all rise”, features collaborations with heavyweight names such as Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, Nomfundo Moh and Sjava, alongside several solo tracks that showcase Danya Devs’ storytelling and versatility.

K Martin said the closing track, Skhathe Side, resonated most with him.
“It speaks about the grind, the sacrifices and the hard work needed to succeed. It’s honest and motivating. Danya’s journey from the bottom to where he is now is something I relate to and want to emulate,” he said.

Influenced by the revolutionary spirit of Tupac Shakur and South African rapper KO, K Martin said the Johannesburg experience has renewed his drive to grow his craft and strengthen links between Zimbabwe and South Africa’s creative industries.
“Seeing the production quality and ambition behind the project has inspired me to push harder and elevate my work back home. It showed me what’s possible when talent meets opportunity,” he said. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu