Trailblazing South African trumpeter, composer, and band leader, Ndabo Zulu has signed a landmark deal with Empire Distribution, Records, and Publishing Inc.
By joining Empire’s roster, Zulu solidifies his influence on the international music scene.
Empire, an independent record label with a strong global presence, is head-quartered in San Francisco and maintains offices in New York, London, Lagos, and Johannesburg.
Through this partnership, Ndabo Zulu will benefit from unparalleled resources and support, ensuring that his music resonates with audiences worldwide.
“Being with Empire has elevated my artistic freedom,” said the musician.
“Partnering with a label that respects and supports my creative process without interference allows me to explore and express myself fully.
“I am creating from a place of freedom, with no boundaries, and I deeply appreciate that.”
Empire is home to artists such as Fireboy DML, Asake, renowned jazz musicians, Terrace Martin and Kamasi Washington.
Ezegozie Eze Jr., Empire’s vice president of Strategy and Market Development for Africa said: “Ndabo Zulu is not just a jazz musician.
“While the industry might try to box his artistic expression into that category, a deeper listen to his work reveals a complexity and diversity far exceeding this traditional label.
“Partnering with Ndabo allows Empire to continue doing what it does best — preserving culture and introducing it to the world in the most authentic way possible.”
Ndabo Zulu is busy working on a new album “Radio Bantu” where he will show his fans a different side to his artistic abilities.
“My following knows me primarily as a jazz artist but this album breaks from that expectation. It’s a form of self-expression, created in a space of freedom, with each song reflecting a different aspect of my journey.”
The album’s title, “Radio Bantu”, Zulu explained that it draws inspiration from the 1960s propaganda machine of the apartheid government.
“This album is my way of offering an alternative narrative — one that listeners can choose for themselves, without being force-fed. It’s about finding your own story within the music.”
Ndabo Zulu’s upcoming album, “Radio Bantu”, is poised to be a powerful offering, rich in emotion and creativity.
IOL Entertainment