On September 6, 2024, ZRI (pronounced Zuu-Ree) released his latest single, “Mud,” featuring LaCabra and Blue Pappi, members of the hip-hop collective “The Qwellers.” This release follows a string of recent projects by the Pretoria-based R&B and alternative rap artist, including his mixtape “Thank God For The Sun”, which dropped in May, and his two-track single “Lehakwe”, released in late July. The release of “Mud” sets the stage for his upcoming project, “Forever, Green in Me”, slated for release this Friday, 13th September.
“Mud” explores the challenges faced by township communities—stories that are often overlooked and people who are frequently marginalized. This theme is deeply relatable, especially in South Africa, where many live in informal settlements. You might be familiar with the statement “I come from the mud,” a statement, referring to the dusty, unpaved roads that are emblematic of township life and struggles. This statement alone summarizes the main ethos of the song, which is also captured in its opening moments, with a conversation between two township residents in “Ispitori,” a slang spoken in Pretoria’s townships. This exchange immediately paints a vivid picture of township life: imagine two locals playing cards or hanging out at a neighborhood store, sharing a lively, humorous chat. Through this, ZRI pays reverence to his birthplace and other South African townships.
Produced by Scarface Panda, “Mud” is rooted in alternative hip-hop with jazzy, mellow soundscapes. The song serves as a bridge between the thriving hip-hop scenes of Pretoria and Durban, enriched by LaCabra and Blue Pappi’s contributions in Zulu. Each artist offers a unique perspective on township life, marked by hardship, crime, and encounters with police violence. While all the rappers express gratitude for escaping such circumstances, they remain committed to remembering the neighbourhoods that shaped them.
ZRI is building a promising career, and his achievements reflect his consistent growth. His previous release, “Thank God For The Sun”, surpassed 100,000 streams in its first week and has since reached 250,000 streams, as announced by the artist on Instagram. His single “Ngozi” topped the 5FM radio charts. ZRI has collaborated with numerous South African artists, such as The Big Hash on “That’s Wassup” from “Heartbreak Hotel”, Archi on “Bonez” from the “Sentimental Tones” extended play , and artists like Imani Basquait and Roho on “Thank God For The Sun”. He has also teamed up with producers like Steveisfrench, Michael Touy, BikoMaq, Trigga Nasty, and Scarface Panda, all of whom have brought a diverse range of sounds to his music. These accomplishments make ZRI an artist to watch as his career continues to unfold.
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