Muzi's Guide to Music and Nightlife in KwaZulu-Natal
Muzi's Guide to Music and Nightlife in KwaZulu-Natal
Alternative South African musician and producer Muzi draws heavily from the pounding musicality of Zulu drums and vocals, turbocharging the electronic songs he produces, creating distinctly homegrown music with plenty of edge.
Born and raised in Ngwelezane, a township in KwaZulu-Natal, Muzi knows the province, located on the north-east coast of South Africa, very well. He speaks highly of the tropical climate and lush landscapes, recommending a drive along the coast to tourists and locals alike. However, the province’s natural wealth is not its only attraction. Durban, the province’s largest city is known for Gqom, a sub-genre of house music that, according to Muzi, can be enjoyed free of judgement at any of the clubs he recommends. In his guide, Muzi treats us to his KwaZulu-Natal, directing us to the places where musicians kickstart their careers and to the most popular Gqom clubs in Durban.
The Bat Centre
“This is a cultural hub spot more than it is a club but it's played a very important role with creatives in KZN. It is based in Durban and I don't think there's an artist I know (musically and visually) who hasn't passed/been through there in some way shape or form. It's like a rite of passage.”
More Info
Views at Twenty5
“This is a club in Durban that arguably brings the most eclectic crowd and has hosted some of the best Gqom parties I've ever been to. I've also done a show here, even though I'm an alternative artist and people still packed it out. Very supportive of multi-genre music.”
More Info
The WEREHOUSE
“Founded by an artist called Aewon Wolf, the Werehouse took from what Bat Centre built and sort of became a new-age hub on its own. As much as it's a club, there's also a skatepark there and it somehow held true to the nature of the creative spirit that roams in Durban/KZN.”
More Info
Moses Mabhida Stadium
“This is a soccer stadium but there's been amazing concerts here also. Black Coffee did his orchestral show here and also his MUSIC IS KING concert. Also this is where most international artists perform when they are playing in Durban.”
More Info
Florida Road
“This is a strip in Durban that used to have a lot of clubs, even though now its just mostly has restaurants. When hiphop and the alternative scene starting booming in Durban, 2014/2015, this is where most artists would perform and it helped grow the industry.”
More Info