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This week, as we commemorate 44 years of independence as a nation, we honour the freedom fighters who paved the way for artistes to express themselves freely, among them, musician, AJourneyOfMilez. Below is our conversation with him:

Q: Who is AJourneyOfMilez?

A: AJourneyOfMilez (real name Thabani Nkosinathi Ndlovu), grew up in Zimbabwe, koBulawayo and partly in Dete. I have cherished recollections from my early days at Sir Roy Welensky Primary School in Dete, where I resided with my grandparents. I recall the seed of music planted within me as my grandparents operated a beer garden, which had a stage. On occasion, they would hire live bands to perform. It was there that I first laid hands on a guitar, an experience etched into my memory forever. I then proceeded to Robert Tredgold Primary School in Bulawayo, then Sizane High School after.

Q: How did your childhood exposure to diverse musical influences shape your artistic identity?

A: I grew up engrossed in non-commercial music, characterised by its quality composition. My uncles in Dete were devoted listeners of Bob Marley, Lucky Dube and similar artistes, often regaling me with tales of Bob’s influence. I recall a particular moment when my aunt acquired a jam blaster and she played a Celine Dion cassette religiously. Meanwhile, my mother introduced me to the world of country music, featuring icons like Dolly Parton, George Jones, and Johnny Cash. I think that exposure played a huge part in me becoming a composer and, producer, especially my style of writing music.

Q: How do you describe your sonic style, and what inspires your Tribal-Tech/Afro-House compositions?

A: The essence of my sound can be described as a sonic translation of the chaos within my mind and emotions— it’s a reflection of what I’m feeling and hearing inside. My love for the African landscape knows no bounds — from the vibrant birds to the flowing water and majestic animals, I find inspiration in every aspect of nature. Consequently, you’ll often hear these rich soundscapes woven throughout my music.

The writing – the music and the words are inspired by everyday life experiences, not only mine, but everyone else’s and everything that life exposes me to. 

Q: What has it been like working with esteemed producers and artists such as Boddhi Satva, Ndinga Gaba and Holly Rey?

A: Well, it’s such an incredible blessing. Boddhi and Ndinga are pioneers in house music. Their sound and productions are legendary. I was listening to them before I even broke through and to be blessed with the opportunity to work with them, was just amazing.

Q: Can you share some memorable experiences from your performances at prominent events like ‘Smoking Dragon’ and ‘Copenhagen Unearthed’?

A: The Smoking Dragon Festival was an unforgettable experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains in Lesotho, it offered three days of enchanting music, vibrant souls, and stunning landscapes. I vividly recall performing a two-hour set, barefoot, clad in shorts and sporting a leopard print vest, an experience that solidified my passion for performing at festivals. While clubs undoubtedly have their own unique charm, there’s something truly special about the festival atmosphere that captivates me. “Copenhagen Unearthed” was equivalently amazing yet nerve wrecking. It was my first time performing in Europe and getting my own headlining gig in the heart of Copenhagen in Denmark was a giant leap, an experience I’ll never forget.

Q: Your EP, Kwa Dumizulu is out. Can you reveal more about the creative process and themes explored in this work?

A: “Kwa Dumizulu”is a pivotal project in my career. It’s a story I had been writing for a long time and to finally be able to extract the emotion, the thumping pace, the light and darkness from the words to a sonic space, is a moment I am humbly proud of. The EP was signed and released by Connected Frontline, a label based in London and Berlin.

Q: How do you feel about remixing the iconic Busi Mhlongo’s “Awukho Umuzi” for your EP, and what was the experience like?

A: It was an extraordinary experience! While collaborating with Mzilikazi Wa Afrika on his album “RISE”, I received those vocals, for which I hold the utmost respect and gratitude. Crafting something that truly complemented uMama uBusi’s story and vocals took time and care. She is a legend and her music resonates on a higher spiritual level. Understanding the depth of her message was paramount, ensuring that I could deliver a piece that maintained its spirit and energy. This project remains one of my favourites to have worked on.

Q: How do you see your musical journey evolving in the future, and what are your long-term goals as an artiste?

A: For me, “evolving” translates to “growing”, and that’s what I strive for. I aspire to continually grow in my music, to deepen my understanding of my purpose, and to effectively channel and utilise my music for that purpose. I’m currently immersed in the creation of my second album, which remains my primary focus for the foreseeable future.

Q: If you had the chance to collaborate with any artist or band, who would you choose, and what makes them your top pick

A: Avicci, Khadja Nin, the late Bob Marley and Oliver Mtukudzi…Oh and Mthunzi (Whom I have worked with on my forthcoming album). 

This is because these artistes are legends in my eyes, their writing, message and productions are timeless.

Q: Any messages to would-be artistes?

A: Keep your chin up, be teachable every single time. Your craft is never sharp enough, keep sharpening it always, never give up, and most importantly – Learn the music business!!