SA: Thakzin to release debut album ahead of ACCES 2025 performance

Thakzin, widely regarded as the pioneer of the emerging 3Step sound, describes the movement as more than a genre – positioning it as a mindset and hybrid approach to music-making that emerged during the pandemic and gained traction with his 2022 track ‘The Magnificent Dance’.

The album, which the artist frames as a spiritual and cultural journey, is divided into three thematic sections: past, present and future. It draws on traditional African rhythms, contemporary experimentation, and forward-looking interpretations of sound and identity. Thakzin says the project is intended as a cohesive “no-skip” listening experience, comparable to a layered meal, and symbolises continuity between ancestry, personal growth and future possibilities.

The second single from the album, ‘Imali Yephepha,’ has already been released. The track features a collective of producers including Atmos Blaq, MphoWAV, Suffocate SA, Citizen Deep and Divine Keys, with vocals from Baby S.O.N and Tete. The collaborative approach, according to Thakzin, reflects the broader vision of the album, which incorporates contributions from a range of artists positioned as creative partners rather than guest features.

Following the album’s release, Thakzin is scheduled to perform and speak at the ACCES 2025 music conference and Showcase Festival in Tshwane. The pan-African industry gathering, which combines live performances with a two-day conference, will provide an international platform for his new body of work.