The Deep Root Tribe Return: Art Basel 2024 Edition

Magic on the Rooftop: Shimza's Epic Set and a Surprise from Black Coffee

GQ South Africa Talks with Shimza: From Local DJ to Afro House Ambassador

How Shimza Manages to Satisfy the Crowd's Demands

How Shimza's Kunye Records Came to Life

How Shimza Got His Start as a DJ

10 Shimza Tracks You Should Know

5 Must-Hear Tracks from Shimza's Label, Kunye Records

Shimza Proves his Status as a Leading Afro-House DJ with a Defected Mix

Shimza: “You Need to be Positive About Everything that You Do”

How Shimza Invests in His Community

How Shimza Became the First DJ to Play on Robben Island

7 Dance Music Artists Using their Platform for Philanthropy

Ashley Raphala, better known by his stage name Shimza, is a globally renowned DJ and producer who has significantly impacted the afro house music scene. Hailing from Tembisa, South Africa, Shimza's journey in music began in his early years, influenced by the musical environment of his upbringing and the sounds of South Africa's youth radio station Y-FM, which debuted in 1997.

Shimza's passion for DJing was sparked at a young age, and despite initial challenges, his talent quickly set him apart. His career took off after winning the Red Bull Music Academy’s DJ competition, which opened doors to numerous opportunities. Known for his skillful performances and technical abilities, Shimza earned the nicknames "Effect Master" and "Vinyl Assassin," reflecting his expertise in creating dynamic and engaging sets.

One of Shimza's significant contributions to the music industry is his founding of Kunye Records, a label dedicated to promoting African music talent. The name "Kunye," meaning "together" in Xhosa/Zulu, embodies Shimza's vision of unity and collaboration within the music community. Through Kunye Records, Shimza has provided a platform for emerging artists, helping to bring African sounds to a global audience.

Shimza's influence extends beyond the DJ booth and recording studio. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his annual "One Man Show" event, which raises funds and collects donations for underprivileged communities in South Africa. This initiative highlights Shimza's commitment to giving back to his roots and using his platform for positive social impact.

Throughout his career, Shimza has performed at some of the world's most prestigious music festivals and venues, including Ultra South Africa, SXM Festival, and Paradise Ibiza. His innovative approach to live performances was exemplified in 2020 when he delivered a live stream set from Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This performance not only showcased his musical talent but also paid homage to South Africa's historical heritage.

A lot of crazy tunes for you to hear on this weeks show.. Let's go!

Nitefreak x Imad x Clubhouse - Not the Same
Chris IDH - Sunray
Moojo, Caiiro, Starving Yet Full - NGWINO
Calvin Harris - Lovers In A Past Life (Tefo Foxx & Shawn Lee Remix)
Robin M x &Lez - Nija
Korie Minors, DJ 84, Shona SA, Lizwi â - Usemindawonye (Native P. remix)
Apello - Distortion Lab
TekniQ feat. Rai Maia & Vitaly Filonov - Solace 
LevyM ft. Kash Neeve - Heartache
Timathi, Tabia - Celestial (Klement Bonelli Remix)

Global Residency 018 with Shimza by Shimza

Shimza's discography includes numerous chart-topping tracks and remixes that have garnered international acclaim. His ability to blend traditional African rhythms with contemporary electronic beats has earned him a dedicated global fan base and respect within the music industry.

Shimza remains a pivotal figure in afro house music. For anyone passionate about afro house music, Shimza is a name you need to know. His impact on the genre and dedication to uplifting others through his music make him an artist worth following.

South Africa

south african house

south african pop

Shimza

United States

Knockdown Center

Shimza & Co

Debut

Gray Area's new venture, "Debut," aims to bridge the international house music community by bringing established and emerging artists to cities they've never performed in. This initiative seeks to expand artists' fan bases and provide fans with fresh, exhilarating musical experiences. Having played a role in introducing major artists and brands like elrow and Awakenings to new audiences in the past, Gray Area believes in the magic of first-time experiences. By promoting artists in new venues and cities, they hope to cultivate a thriving, unified house music ecosystem. Debut is not merely a marketing strategy but embodies Gray Area's commitment to fostering collaboration, unity, and musical discovery.

Quantum Brooklyn

Debut: Shimza First New York Headline Performance

Lohrasp Kansara

Robidio

The Roof at Superior Ingredients

Shimza [Extended Set]

United Kingdom

melodic house

uk dance

uk house

Franky Wah

Made By Pete

Spain

Chinois Ibiza

Franky Wah presents SHÈN Ibiza Week 6

Franky Wah Presents SHÈN

south african pop dance

Black Coffee

deep disco house

Damian Lazarus

garage house

Honey Dijon

Paul Reynolds

Hï Ibiza

Black Coffee Week 6

deep tech house

house

progressive house

CamelPhat

minimal techno

Hot Since 82

Pacha Ibiza

CAMELPHAT Week 2

Camelphat

Arodes

SONA

Playa Soleil Ibiza

All I Need Week 3

All I Need

spanish techno

Andres Campo

Italy

Anfisa Letyago

Romania

rominimal

Arapu

Netherlands

minimal tech house

Boris Werner

dutch tech house

Chris Stussy

Germany

Christian AB

Iran

techno

Dubfire

Argentina

house argentino

Franco Cinelli

Jean Pierre

Ukraine

Korolova

arab electronic

canadian electronic

Maher Daniel

Denmark

tech house

Manda Moor

Manu Gonzalez

Türkiye

O.Bee

Raresh

Rhadoo

Chile

german techno

microhouse

Ricardo Villalobos

France

french tech house

Sirus Hood

Switzerland

swiss techno

Sonja Moonear

Tomas Station

dutch experimental electronic

William Djoko

 is a premier boutique and music-focused gathering on the picturesque Albanian Riviera. Nestled in the stunning locale of Shëngjin, this festival offers an unparalleled experience amidst breathtaking mountain ranges, expansive beaches, and fragrant pine forests.

Launched as a haven for genuine music enthusiasts, UNUM Festival distinguishes itself in the European festival circuit by fostering a true sense of community in an uncommercialized setting. It features tastefully designed stages, top-notch sound systems, and an almost continuous flow of music that creates a magical atmosphere throughout the event.

Every edition, the festival promises a diverse and captivating lineup, showcasing innovative artists across house, techno, breaks, minimal, and electro genres. The festival's iconic stages, particularly The Pines Stage, offer unique experiences with epic sunset sessions and spine-tingling sunrise sets, providing a continuous journey of musical exploration.

UNUM Festival stands out not only for its musical excellence but also for its idyllic retreat setting, attracting like-minded individuals who appreciate travel, music, and off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences.

Unum

Albania

Shëngjin

Unum 2024

deep house

uk tech house

Jamie Jones

Ilario Alicante

Rossi

Ms. Mada

Nigeria

deep minimal techno

electra

Nicole Moudaber

Seb Zito

Joey Daniel

Brazil

brazilian edm

brazilian tech house

Bruno Furlan

Amnesia Ibiza

Paradise week 10

Paradise

progressive trance

Spencer Brown

Mikey Lion

Lee Reynolds

Wakyin

Luna Mar

Earth Signs

raw techno

Eats Everything

BLUE

Under The K Bridge

Blue: Shimza, Spencer Brown, Mikey Lion, Lee Reynolds, Wakyin + MORE

The Room at Superior Ingredients

Shimza President’s Day Weekend

The Blessed Madonna

New Zealand

float house

jazz house

nz electronic

Chaos In The CBD

uk funky

Dennis Ferrer

lo-fi house

DJ Seinfeld

FJAAK

Helena Hauff

afrofuturism

detroit techno

Jeff Mills

Joris Voorn

pop dance

Russia

russian electronic

russian techno

Nina Kraviz

detroit house

Octave One

Belgium

belgian techno

Charlotte de Witte

Ben UFO

Colombia

colombian indie

latintronica

pop electronico

Ela Minus

Annicka

DJ Gigola

electronica

future garage

indie soul

indietronica

Jamie xx

 stands as a global beacon within the electronic music landscape, a pivotal event that draws enthusiasts and artists alike to the very heart of techno's origin. Rooted deeply in Detroit, a city celebrated worldwide as the birthplace of this influential genre, the festival serves as an annual congregation, forging an unparalleled experience for all who attend.

The festival's genesis was driven by a powerful vision: to honor Detroit's profound and lasting impact on the evolution of electronic music, with a particular focus on the groundbreaking sounds of techno. This foundational purpose, to celebrate the city's unique musical heritage, has remained a defining characteristic throughout the festival's journey. From its earliest days, the aim was to create a unifying experience, bringing people together through the shared passion for Detroit techno and the broader spectrum of electronic music, cultivating a strong sense of community around this significant cultural phenomenon. This initial concept was brought to life through the dedication and artistic direction of pioneering figures from the Detroit techno scene, whose involvement lent an immediate and enduring authenticity to the event, ensuring a deep and genuine connection to the music's core essence.

Throughout its history, the festival has consistently attracted highly influential and innovative artists, DJs, and producers, both from Detroit and from the global electronic music community. It has served as a vital stage for showcasing both the originators of the genre and the contemporary artists who continue to push its boundaries, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination within the international electronic music scene.

Attendees can expect to witness performances from the architects of techno, globally recognized icons of house music, and cutting-edge experimental acts that represent the forefront of electronic sound. As well as this, the festival plays a crucial role in nurturing the electronic music ecosystem by providing a significant platform for emerging talents alongside the established legends of the genre.

Movement

Movement 2025

Shimza

Upcoming events

Past events

Other artists