We have opened a line: A space to listen, to archive, to honour those who journey with us.
We gather the voices of our collaborators.
Their thoughts, their stories, their frequencies.
We begin with Call+Continuum; a theme we explored through being commissioned by the Zeitz MOCAA Gala Collateral Programme, to curate sounds in celebration of the role South African women play in the creative industries. These are women who are not just making music, but holding memory.
Resisting erasure. Declaring existence.
The Call is loud, intentional, undeniable. The Continuum is subtle, generational, grounding.
We asked: What does Call + Continuum mean to you?
Through phone calls, voice notes and conversation, they answered.
There are their reflections. Their words become the archive. Their voices carry the line forward.
Lia Butler, born Nombulelo Mzobe in Durban on South Africa's east coast, is an emerging singer-songwriter with a distinct and captivating sound she terms "Neo Zulu." Her musical journey began in Sunday school, and in 2015, she started gaining traction by creating SZA covers. Lia's "Neo Zulu" genre is a compelling blend of Neo Soul, Umbhaqanga, Maskandi, RnB, and Amahubo, capturing the essence of her roots whilst pushing musical boundaries. She describes herself as "an artist in learning, storyteller in grooming, and novelist in training," showcasing her versatility in both songwriting and literature.
With only two projects, STE (Smiling Through Everything) and ISIQEPHU, to her name, Lia has already made significant waves in the music scene. She has toured internationally with Desire Marea and Izimakade, and shared stages with legends like Madala Kunene and Okmalumkoolkat. Her unique sound has earned her recognition from industry heavyweights such as Simphiwe Dana and Thandiswa Mazwai. Lia released her highly anticipated debut single, "UCU," in September, which is available on all digital platforms.
Her work has been featured on major South African radio stations, and she has collaborated with notable artists and creatives like Marcus Harvey and Thickleeyonce, steadily rising as an artist who combines storytelling with rich cultural influences to create innovative and deeply traditional music. Whilst explicit awards were not detailed, her recognised collaborations and impact highlight her growing acclaim.