Spindle Radar: Zee Nxumalo Reinforces Her Position As A Global Superstar With New EP Izinja Zam: Vol. 1

With her sleek vocals and immersive lyrics, Zee Nxumalo is ushering in a new global era of her artistry. Hailing from South Africa, the young talent first came onto the entertainment scene after going viral on TikTok. Over the last few years, Zee has carved out a unique lane in the music world, thanks to her dynamic tracks that explore themes of love, identity, and personal growth.

In April, the award-winning talent released her latest EP, Izinja Zam: Vol. 1, expanding her reach and influence within the afro-pop sphere. Described as a “vibrational statement,” the record features Zee on an introspective journey that begins in surrender and ends in fulfilment. When describing this new chapter, Zee says: “This is a season of growth for me, not just musically, but as an artist and as a brand.” In light of Izinja Zam: Vol. 1’s release, we chatted with the ‘Guqa’ singer about creating her EP, her artistic evolution, and more.

Hiya Zee, thanks for sitting down with Spindle. First and foremost, how are you doing?

I’m good, honestly. I feel very grateful right now. It’s been a busy season with the EP, performances, interviews and everything moving so fast, but I’m in a really good space mentally and creatively. I feel more settled in myself this year.

Congratulations on the recent release of your EP, Izinja Zam Vol. 1. How does it feel to have it out in the world finally?

Thank you. It feels good. This project is very close to me. It’s a smaller project, but it carries a lot emotionally and spiritually. I’ve been sitting with these songs for a while, so finally seeing people connect with them the way they are has been beautiful.

Can you take us through the creative process for the project? What type of themes or stories did you want to explore on the record?

The process was very natural. We didn’t overthink it. I wanted the music to feel honest and intentional. A lot of the project touches on prayer, protection, purpose, confidence and love. Last year changed my life a lot, so I think this EP reflects someone who is becoming more sure of themselves and more grounded.

One thing that I love about Izinja Zam Vol. 1 is its dynamic production. While each track has a unique sound, their respective productions blend so well with each other, elevating the listening experience and the lyrical content. While creating the record, what was your vision for its sound?

I wanted it to feel cohesive emotionally more than sonically. Even though the songs move between 3-step, Afro-tech and house influences, there’s a certain feeling that connects them all. We focused a lot on atmosphere and emotion. I wanted the music to feel spiritual but still move people physically. Like you can dance to it, but you can also sit with it.

Each track on this project sounds fantastic, but I particularly can’t get enough of ‘Awe Mah 2.0’. If you had to choose, which track on the EP would you consider your favourite and why?

It changes all the time, but right now, probably “Guqa.” There’s something very honest about that song. It’s calm but powerful at the same time. I think it captures the spirit of the project really well.

So, looking at the title, it seems that Izinja Zam Vol. 2 may be in the cards. Is that your plan? Can you share any details about the follow-up project?

Maybe. I definitely like the idea of building worlds and continuing stories instead of always starting from zero. Right now, I just want people to live with Vol. 1 properly first, but yeah, there’s definitely more music coming.

Let’s take a break from your latest release and discuss your music beginnings. When did you first realise you wanted to pursue a career in music?

I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember, but I think I realised it could really become my life when people started genuinely connecting with the songs. Once I saw the impact and how music could move people emotionally, it became deeper than just a passion. Especially when my Mlindo cover went viral, I knew there was potential.

Which artist (or artists) would you say shaped your artistry growing up?

A lot, honestly. I grew up around different sounds. Mlindo, Brenda Fassie, Nasty C, Wizkid, Kanye West, and even gospel music. I think all of that shaped how I hear music today.

You’ve been steadily carving your lane in the industry since your debut in 2022. How have you evolved as an artist?

I trust myself more now. In the beginning, you second guess a lot, but now I understand my voice, my instincts and what kind of artist I want to be. I’ve also grown emotionally, and I think that naturally reflects in the music.

You’ve achieved so much in just a few years, including millions of streams and a growing international fandom. Looking toward the future, what are some of the high-priority goals you want to achieve over the next five years?

I want to keep growing globally while still staying rooted in home. Touring more internationally is important to me. I want to build bigger experiences around my music, collaborate with more artists across Africa and the world, and continue pushing the culture forward from a South African perspective.

Lastly, what else can fans expect from Zee Nxumalo in 2026?

A lot more music first of all. More visuals, more performances, more risks creatively. I really want this year to feel expansive. Last year was amazing, but I still feel like I’m just getting started, honestly.

Check out Zee Nxumalo’s new EP, Izinja Zam: Vol.1 here or below.