South African music legend Zu. is back with a new album, ‘Ilitye’, which marks a significant milestone in her career – 20 years of making music. The album, released on February 27, is a reflection of her growth and journey as an artist.
‘Ilitye’ is a love letter from the adult Zu. to her inner child, a story of self-acceptance and healing. The title, which translates to ‘stone’ in English, represents a gift from her adult self to her younger self, symbolizing the idea that everything she needs is within her.
Zu.’s Music Style and Inspiration
Zu. describes her sound as ‘memory and medicine. Magic. Messages’, a unique blend of live instrumentation and contemporary African sounds. She worked with a select group of producers, including Z.E.N, to curate the album’s sound.
With ‘Ilitye’, Zu. is not just sharing music, but also lessons she has learned throughout her journey. She wants people to take away two key messages from the album: ‘leak before you burst’ and ‘being you is your superpower’. As she embarks on her national tour, she aims to deliver these messages in person, using her music as a form of therapy and healing.
What to Expect from Zu.’s Live Shows
Zu.’s live shows promise to be more than just a performance. She wants her audience to feel seen, held, and reminded of their greatness. With her unique energy and talent, she is set to take the stage by storm. The tour kicked off on March 6 at Kings Kraal, with more dates lined up across the country, including a stop at Bloemfontein Civic Theatre on April 25.
As Zu. marks this significant milestone in her career, she is also shifting her focus towards using her talent to tell important stories. She is ‘humaning out loud unapologetically’, and her music is a reflection of that.
- ‘Ilitye’ is Zu.’s 11th album release
- The album features a blend of live instrumentation and contemporary African sounds
- Zu. is embarking on a national tour to promote the album
