SA: Durban artists release Red Bull EP

Red Bull Amaphiko is a global programme that champions social entrepreneurs driving positive change in their corner of the world.

Titled Red Bull Dubane Connect, the EP features Durban-based artists and was recorded at KZN Music House. It comprises five tracks: ‘Sabela’, ‘Do You Believe’, ‘Sum’, ‘Kulele’ and ‘Sunrise’, which are available for streaming and download here.

“In 2019, a group of artists came together in the KZN Music House during the Red Bull Amaphiko Academy to record, collaborate and celebrate some of the freshest music coming out of Durban,” Red Bull Amaphiko said.

“Red Bull Dubane Connect is the result of those sessions: a multi-genre EP featuring a host of artists that are forging the young sound of eThekwini [Durban Metro].”

The EP features such genres as Afropop, Afro-soul, R&B, hip hop, house and gqom. Some of the featured artists include Mnqobi Yazo, DJ LeSoul, Campmasters, Robin Thirdfloor, Nipho Hurd, Garde and Nobuhle Khuzwayo as well as producers Emex, King Bruce, MusiColours and uBeyond.

“These musicians came from different backgrounds and music genres,” the academy said. “They all have one thing in common – they were born and bred in the coastal city of Durban.

"These musicians got together last year at the Red Bull Amaphiko Academy, as part of the festival’s programme, where they attended a songwriters camp. At the camp, the local musicians had the opportunity to use the KZN Music House state-of-the-art recording studios and received mentorship from the legendary Madala Kunene.”

Dubane is the slang name for Durban while 'Connect' represents a collaborative spirit to connect Durban's music and musicians with the world, Red Bull Amaphiko said.