How Xowla’s Social Media Post Led to a Game-Changing Break with Big Zulu

Xolani Shabalala, popularly known as Xowla, is the talented producer and singer behind some of iNkabi Records’ biggest hits. At 32 years old and hailing from Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Xowla has finally opened up about the breakthrough moment that launched his career to new heights — and it all started with a simple social media post.

Speaking candidly on the Vuma with Inkosiyesizwe podcast, Xowla shared how a random video clip changed his life. “I posted a video of a song I made with a friend. Someone who knew Big Zulu saw it and showed it to him. Then Big Zulu started asking about me,” he revealed.

That initial curiosity led to a face-to-face encounter during a music launch event at Kwa Mai Mai in Johannesburg, where industry heavyweights like Sjava and Big Zulu were present. “I asked for a photo with him, and he actually recognised me from the video. That’s when we exchanged contacts,” Xowla recalled.

Despite this promising start, the connection didn’t immediately blossom. “We didn’t talk for six months after that,” he admitted.

Everything changed when inspiration struck. Xowla created a track called iVolovolo and decided to send it to every artist in his contact list. “I felt something was missing on the song, so I deleted my verses and sent it out to everyone I knew,” he explained. It was Big Zulu who responded first, expressing interest and liking the track.

They met at Big Zulu’s studio, where the star added his own verse. Xowla then asked for the song to be included on Big Zulu’s upcoming album. The result was one of the standout tracks that helped put both artists further in the spotlight.

But success came with sacrifices. Xowla shared how he was working a day job in Kempton Park when Big Zulu called him with a last-minute studio invite. “It was a Thursday, and he said we must meet at the studio at 5 pm — that’s when I normally knock off. I asked my boss if I could leave early, and he agreed,” Xowla said.

Today, Xowla has transitioned fully into music, working closely with iNkabi Records and collaborating with artists like Sjava and Lwah Ndlunkulu. His story is a testament to how talent combined with persistence and a little bit of luck can lead to life-changing opportunities.

From a social media video to the studios of Johannesburg, Xowla’s rise is inspiring a new generation of producers and singers across South Africa.