The post Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era. Inkabi Records founder Big Zulu is once again guiding his label into a new chapter, balancing reflection with renewal as the company announces both a notable departure and the arrival of promising new artists.
The respected rapper and entrepreneur, who launched Inkabi Records in 2019, shared a detailed media statement outlining the latest developments within the label. Known for building a platform that has nurtured several prominent voices in South African music, Big Zulu emphasised that growth and evolution remain central to his vision for the brand.
(@inkabirecordsza)One of the most significant updates is the departure of Mduduzi Ncube, the Afro-pop vocalist who played a pivotal role in the label’s early success. The Hammarsdale-born singer became Inkabi Records’ first signed artist after famously reaching out to Big Zulu via direct message, a move that eventually changed the course of his career.
During his time with the label, Ncube helped shape the Inkabi sound with chart successes such as Isiginci, a collaboration that earned widespread acclaim and contributed to multiple accolades and platinum certifications. His contract has now reached its natural conclusion, allowing him to step into a new phase as the founder of his own venture, Blvckbird.
Inkabi Records described the transition as a moment of pride rather than separation. The label praised Ncube’s development and expressed excitement about watching him grow as both an artist and a music executive. Despite the formal split, the two camps maintain a respectful relationship. They may collaborate on selected projects in the future, while Ncube continues to benefit from royalties tied to his work during his Inkabi tenure.
While bidding farewell to one of its earliest stars, Big Zulu is also strengthening the label’s future with fresh talent.
Among the new signings is Starr Healer, a 23-year-old vocalist from KwaMashu whose real name is Minenhle Kwanele Sibiya. The singer describes her style as a “Healer’s Sensation,” blending soulful Afro pop melodies with emotionally driven songwriting. She has already shared stages and studio sessions with artists such as Prince Kaybee, Azana, and Murumba Pitch, and Inkabi Records believes her voice carries the potential to connect deeply with listeners.
Joining her on the roster is Fanatic SA, an Afro-pop artist recognised for energetic performances and sharp lyrical storytelling. His growing reputation includes the viral track Dear Ex Yami, which notably featured Mduduzi Ncube. Inkabi Records praised Fanatic SA as a gifted vocalist and songwriter whose creativity aligns with the label’s mission to support artists who bring authenticity and originality to the industry.
The statement also addressed ongoing speculation surrounding MusiholiQ, the rapper, vocalist, and producer born Ncazelo Furtune Mtolo. Inkabi Records clarified that although MusiholiQ has collaborated closely with Big Zulu over the years, he has never been formally signed to the label. Instead, their partnership has always been based on friendship and creative collaboration, a relationship that is expected to continue through future joint ventures.
For Big Zulu, these developments reflect the natural progression of a label that was built on opportunity and mentorship. The Bergville-born artist, who once worked as a taxi driver before becoming a dominant voice in South African hip hop, has steadily expanded Inkabi Records into a respected platform for emerging musicians. Artists such as Lwah Ndlunkulu and Siya Ntuli already stand as examples of that vision in action.
With new voices entering the fold and former protégés stepping into independence, Big Zulu’s leadership continues to shape Inkabi Records as a space where artists can grow, collaborate, and eventually build their own legacies.
As the label moves forward, fans can expect fresh releases and collaborations that reflect both Inkabi’s signature sound and the creative energy of its newest additions.
The post Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
The post Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era appeared first on SA Hip Hop Mag.
Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era. Inkabi Records founder Big Zulu is once again guiding his label into a new chapter, balancing reflection with renewal as the company announces both a notable departure and the arrival of promising new artists. Big Zulu Steers Inkabi Records Into A New Era The respected rapper …
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