The Joy: Spreading happiness and cultural pride

In an interview ahead of the release of their eponymous debut album, the group shared its inspiring journey from their humble beginnings tracing back to school choir rehearsals.

“We realised we could form our own group and create something beautiful,” they recalled, adding that their talents were discovered by English record producer Ben Ash, leading to a management deal.

The group draws influences from South Africa’s rich musical history, from mbube to isicathamiya while experimenting with different genres including Afro-pop, Afrobeats and amapiano. With unique vocal technique and harmony, The Joy’s performances are a treat for the eyes and ears, featuring intricate choreography and storytelling elements.

“We interchange singing roles, and our voices complement each other. We do our level best to incorporate some dance moves when we perform. Our moves are Zulu-driven and come naturally to us.”

The Joy’s music is inspired by their grandfathers and Zulu heritage, and they take pride in preserving their cultural heritage through their work. With their name inspired by the joy they bring to their audience, they aim to spread love, positivity. In the introductory song, ‘Uhlenge’ (meaning “rescue” in English), The Joy narrates the story of a man lamenting assault on his spirit, imploring the gods for salvation. The song serves as a poignant plea for divine intervention, highlighting the protagonist’s desperate cry for salvation from the forces that seek to diminish his essence. The powerful opening track sets the tone for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged musical journey.

The second track, ‘Mama ka Nomthandazo’, is a vibrant and joyful song that features a young boy playfully asking a mother to release her daughter so she can dance for him. What distinguishes these two songs is their exceptional lyrical depth, which shines through by exploring distinct themes. While ‘Uhlenge’ is a heartfelt plea for rescue, ‘Mama ka Nomthandazo’ is a lighthearted and endearing request, showcasing the artists’ skills in crafting diverse narratives.

“Our music makes it easy to capture the public as a whole, express our values and beliefs, and tell our story,” they said.

The Joy believes in the importance of balancing individual creative expression. Throughout the album, the group showcases its exceptional vocal prowess, delivering intricate harmonies and impressive vocal dexterity. Moreover, a powerful theme of unity emerges as a recurring thread, weaving together the group’s diverse songs into a cohesive and impactful collection.

“We understand that we are different, and it’s those differences that make us unique. We write down our lyrics individually, then regroup to combine what we  have written.”

While collaborations and fusions are essential to South African music, the group has worked with artists from various genres and disciplines, learning valuable lessons about unity and creative expression. Their most memorable performance was with US rapper and singer Doja Cat at this year’s Coachella Festival in California, which they described as an amazing experience. They have also collaborated with international artists and look forward to working with more amazing talents.

“We aim to contribute to global cultural exchange and collaborate with international artists. It takes a village, and we appreciate the recognition and support.”

The Joy’s remarkable journey from humble school choir beginnings to international stardom is a resounding tribute to the transformative power of music. Through their music, The Joy seeks to bridge cultural divides, foster international collaboration and inspire a deeper understanding of the world’s diverse heritage.

The album culminates in two soul-stirring gospel tracks, ‘Amandla ka Moya’ and ‘Jesu’. These spiritually charged songs showcase the group’s sublime harmonies and sincere devotion. The breath-taking blend of their voices and the inspiring message of the tracks make for an unforgettable listening experience.