Nkonzo Unveils Soulful EP ‘Ubizo’, A Spiritual and Ancestral Journey
South African artist Nkonzo has released his latest EP, ‘Ubizo’, marking a transformative chapter in his musical and personal journey. Describing the project as born from a spiritual turning point, Nkonzo explained, “This project was born from a spiritual turning point in my life, a moment where I felt called not just to create music but to return to the roots of who I am.” The EP’s title, which translates to “The Calling”, reflects its focus on spirituality, ancestry, and lived experience.
‘Ubizo’ invites listeners into a contemplative space where music serves as a vessel for memory, healing, and truth. The EP departs from conventional structures, emphasizing emotion and reflection over mainstream appeal. Its tracks are designed to evoke a meditative state, allowing audiences to connect with the deeper themes of heritage, grief, and personal transformation. Among the standout tracks is Nkonzo’s debut single, “Akvumi”, which introduces him as a storyteller with a voice that carries intent and emotion. The song sets the tone for the entire project, asking listeners to slow down, listen deeply, and feel.
Born Anele Brandan Nkonzo in Umzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal, the artist draws heavily from his Bhaca heritage. This cultural foundation informs both the sound and spirit of ‘Ubizo’. Nkonzo shared that the project was inspired by dreams, personal losses, and a rediscovery of identity. “The calling came through dreams, personal losses and a deep rediscovery of my identity as a Bhaca man,” he said. “It pushed me to speak honestly about heritage, grief, separation, healing and the unseen world that shapes our daily lives.”
‘Ubizo’ represents a departure from Nkonzo’s previous work, including the ‘Izulu Nomhlaba’ EP. While his earlier projects leaned more toward afro-pop storytelling, this release moves beyond genre conventions. Nkonzo describes it as “a spiritual archive, a testimony,” combining ancient rhythms, choral textures, and traditional instruments to create an ethno world music sound rooted in African traditions.
In creating the EP, Nkonzo prioritized vulnerability and intuition over structure. “I gave myself permission to be vulnerable, to follow spirit instead of structure,” he said. “This project is not just about entertainment; it is an offering.” With ‘Ubizo’, Nkonzo delivers a profound musical experience that connects heritage, spirituality, and artistry, inviting listeners to explore both the seen and unseen aspects of life.
