Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
On any given weekend in Bulawayo, the deep, soulful rhythms of house music fill the city air, and more often than not, Denzil Mthokozisi Zulu, better known as Zulu DaHouseManiac, is at the heart of that beat.
Zulu is fast becoming a household name in the city’s house music scene; known for his seamless mixes and the energy he brings to every set. Whether he is behind the decks at intimate graduation parties, packed nightclubs, or outdoor festivals, Zulu definitely kick-starts the party.
Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zulu’s journey into music began with an early fascination for house compilations which he collected with his cousin, G-Funk.
“We had Church Grooves by Oskido, House Grooves by DJ Ganyani and House Afrika. I grew up listening to house music, and artistes like Vinny Da Vinci, Christos, Mono T, and DJ Fresh really inspired me to start my own journey.”
That journey took flight thanks to a friend and fellow DJ, Master M, who would host graduation parties at his house using DVDs as the primary music source.
“The passion really grew from those parties. Then Master M bought a PA system, and we started playing at local functions. That’s when it all started to feel real.”
To many local house lovers, Zulu is best known for spearheading the Chronicles of House Nation movement, a precursor to today’s thriving local dance music culture.
“In 2011, we finally started getting into clubs. DJ Maxxy gave us a slot at the then Paparazzi Nightclub, and not long after that, we met Zetfactor. That’s when things changed. Zetfactor gave Master M and I a chance to play at Club 40Forty during a 40-DJ clash. From there, we connected with more DJs, which led to the creation of Chronicles of House Nation.”
Alongside Dbongz Deeper and Master M, Zulu built the Chronicles brand in neighbourhoods like Luveve, Gwabalanda, and Njube. Their events, from the legendary 52nd Deep House Night to the Garage Festival, would eventually cement Zulu’s status as a key player in the city’s club scene.
“We made so much noise that clubs started calling us. We began hosting major events like 52nd Deep House Night, which became an annual celebration, and then moved on to the Garage Festival,” he said.
Today, Zulu’s sets are in high demand. He has graced major events such as the Bulawayo Shutdown, Bulawayo Piano Fest, The Market Place, and EYadini, where he shared the stage with South African Amapiano heavyweight Jazzi Q.
He has also performed alongside the Scorpion Kings, Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa. Recently, he took his sound to Harare, expanding his footprint beyond Bulawayo.
“The house music scene is huge in Bulawayo now. We’ve got events like Garden of House, House in CBD, and Marvel House, all of which I’ve played at multiple times.”
Despite the momentum, challenges remain, particularly around professionalism and compensation.
“My biggest challenge is not getting paid after events. Most of these events are organised by people in my circle, so it’s hard to bring in a manager or sign a contract. It becomes complicated.”
Still, his passion for house music remains unshaken.
“House music uplifts my spirit. No other genre does it for me like house music does.”
