Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
On Thursday, hip-hop lovers are set to converge at a nightspot in Bulawayo for the official listening session and launch party of Sound of the City, a landmark compilation album by the Kwela Initiative.
The event marks the culmination of the trailblazing Kwela Rekording Kamp, a three-day intensive recording programme held earlier this year. The camp extended the dialogue sparked by the Hip-Hop vs the Community Indaba and the Kwela Initiative Workshop, both of which explored hip-hop’s role in conflict transformation and social change.
Sixteen of Bulawayo’s most dynamic voices were selected to channel the Indaba’s themes into music during the camp. The diverse line-up included Swazy, Stones Moyo, Fuel The Don, Curtis Dee Rovar, Nsizwa Black, TBK, Farai, Ghawdzilla, Israel, CMK, Mike the Future, Salem Bhebhe, KidThrill, Philo Cliff, Canvus Ports, and RyZoN. Together, they crafted a 12-track album that reflects the struggles, aspirations, and resilience of the city’s youth.
Following a showcase at the Bulawayo Theatre that stirred dialogue, the spotlight now shifts to unveiling the final product.
“This has been a long time coming. It’s exciting to finally share what we’ve been working on. Organising 16 artistes wasn’t easy, but as first-time organisers of such a project, we’re proud to have seen it through to completion,” said a Kwela Initiative representative.
“Hip-hop lovers can expect a bit of everything – vibe songs, love songs, boom bap, and even fusions with House and Kwaito. It’s truly the sound of the city, voiced by young people living, working, studying, hustling, and dreaming in Bulawayo,” the representative added.
Tracks tipped to resonate include Zaka, My Type, Awubambeki, and Burg, showcasing the project’s musical and thematic diversity.
Reflecting on the journey – from masterclasses to the recording camp and theatre showcase – organisers say every step was a milestone.
“Everything we did had never been attempted before in the local hip-hop community. But now, getting the music to the people and seeing their response is the highlight we’re most looking forward to.” – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
