South African DJ, producer, and hitmaker DJ Melzi returns with a deeply spiritual offering — his latest single “Zenyembezi,” a moving fusion of Amapiano and Gospel that he describes as “an Amapiano prayer for the world.” After a short hiatus, the platinum-selling artist is stepping into a new era — one that prioritizes depth, reflection, and healing through music. In an interview with us, Melzi shared the inspiration behind “Zenyembezi.”
1. “Zenyembezi” is such a powerful title — can you tell us what inspired the song and its message?
The title comes from the unofficial title of the song “Izinyawo ze nyembezi” which means _”Teary Feet/Crying Feet”. _Zenyembezi summarises it in the form of a son that’s a cry for help.
2. You describe the track as an “Amapiano prayer for the world.” What does that mean to you personally?
Personally, it’s a prayer song that emphasises our lack of patience when crying/praying to the Lord.
3. How did the collaboration with Philasande come about, and what made you choose her as the voice for this song?
I asked my saxophonists if he knew any talented new singers and he played me a few clips. Once I heard her voice, I knew she was the one to complete the masterpiece.
4. What was going through your mind the moment you started humming the melody — did you instantly know it was something special?
I was making the beat then I stopped to get a haircut. While cutting my hair, Istarted singing the melody with a few words. It caught my full attention and breath. I knew it was something special and it needed someone who could not just sing but also relate to it, for it to be complete.
5. The song blends Amapiano and Gospel, two very different genres. What challenges did you face merging these sounds and how did you make it work?
I had already been evolving my sound as a whole. I didn’t face any major challenges because I just expressed myself and let things flow. The only worry I heard was, “Is this gonna work?” and if people would take it in.
6. Faith seems to play a strong role in this project. Has spirituality always influenced your music, or is this a new chapter for you?
Spirituality has always influenced my work but this time around, I let it take full control and trusted the process.
7. You’ve performed around the world. How have those experiences shaped your sound and approach to music production?
It exposed me to many different music cultures. It also helped me understand the importance of making music for people, through my inner self. Not for myself but for people.
8. “Zenyembezi” marks your first release of 2025 after a brief hiatus. What inspired your return and how have you evolved during that break?
I felt like it wasn’t time. I felt like I needed to give myself time to master my vision of merging commercial/international deep house with homegrown amapiano. I believe I have reached that stage and its now time to share it with the world.
9. As one of South Africa’s most-followed and streamed Amapiano artists, how do you balance creating for your fans and staying true to your artistic vision?
I do not overthink it anymore. I will just keep my promise of delivering fresh and genuine music. They trust in me and I also trust in them to always give me a chance.
10. Tell us more about Melzi Events, your label — what’s the vision behind it and how are you nurturing new talent like Philasande?
As I took my break, I took time to learn and understand more about the music business and not just what happens in the studio. Nurturing Philasande comes naturally and despite pressure within, we are all trusting the process.
11. You’ve achieved platinum status and over 40 million streams — what does success look like for you now beyond the numbers?
What matters most to me is delivering good and pure work. I still believe the numbers are not a pure reflection of my ability. Success beyond this would be more people falling in love with me and seeing the vision behind the sound. Everything else will be a bonus from the Lord.
12. The line “My Father, I’m coming to you. Are my prayers heard?” is deeply emotional. Was this song written during a personal moment of reflection or struggle?
It’s a moment of reflection that we believe almost everyone goes through when in doubt.
13. Amapiano has taken the world by storm. What do you think sets South African Amapiano apart from how the world is interpreting it?
I think it’s still very experimental and genuine. That’s what sets it apart for me. The soul and energy behind it.
14. Your fanbase in the UK and across the world continues to grow. What does it mean to you to see international audiences embracing your sound?
For me, it means I am growing and that I am walking in the right path.
15. Finally, what can fans expect from your upcoming album — will it continue this spiritual and soulful direction, or explore new themes altogether?
Fans can expect an evolved, better, musical, spiritual and visionary “Wabatho”. Still the same but with a matured approach to music.
You can find him on Instagram HERE and Facebook HERE.
Make sure to stream “Zenyembezi” on all streaming platforms HERE.
