EP: Dlala Thukzin & Funky Qla – Smoothie

Dlala Thukzin and Funky Qla have rejuvenated the essence and relevance of Gqom with their latest project, “Smoothie.”

There are perspectives suggesting that Gqom may not endure in the future landscape of South African music, but the evolution of Gqom is evident. The Gqom being created today is markedly more sophisticated than that produced in 2017. Had these modern Gqom soundscapes been introduced during the rise of Amapiano, it is possible that Gqom would have maintained its prominence. However, it is still an opportune moment for established artists like Dlala Thukzin and Funky Qla to address these shifts in the genre.

Their initial efforts in revitalizing Gqom involved integrating newer styles and elements into the music, a process that Dlala Thukzin has effectively embraced. He has preserved the essential qualities of Gqom while incorporating House sub-genres like 3step, resulting in a fresh rebranding of the sound.

In a continuation of this revival, the producer has collaborated with Funky Qla, another prominent figure in Gqom, to create a collaborative EP titled “Smoothie.” This project features six tracks and includes collaborations with artists such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Thatohatsi, Zee Nxumalo, and Leehleza, contributing to a body of work that resonates with a broad audience.