Steven Zulu Shongwe (31), known as Smezi, hails from Tembisa. He started his music career professionally in 2010 as a backing vocalist for the late gospel artist Mzayoni, who later brought him into his own studio, Soul Eagle Records, to train him as a musician.
“I am a musician because I believe that I was sent by God to save His people from mjolo or relationship problems because I’m tired of people being hurt by their partners or umjolo. I want people to see love as a sign of God. God loves us, and He wanted us to live in this world with love, so I’m motivating people to love one another unconditionally,” Steven said.
His album teaches people to never listen to bad mouthing or those who talk behind their backs. It encourages people to believe in their beliefs. “When someone says you are not in love because they think your partner has used muthi on you, my songs will tell you to stick with your partner in good times and bad times. Don’t even look at the family problems because your partner loves you unconditionally; stick with him/her.” Steven explains.
Steven’s album tackles themes such as hatred, relationship problems, lies, and misleading information. It also addresses mental health, encouraging open conversations and seeking help. It shares stories of perseverance and triumph over adversity. It offers messages of self-empowerment and inner strength. It provides a sense of community and connection, reminding listeners they’re not alone. By addressing negative perspectives and offering solutions, the album serves as a powerful tool for healing, inspiration, and personal growth.
Steven’s songs typically feature mellow, calming soundscapes and introspective lyrics, which create a cosy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and self-reflection. They explore themes of love, heartbreak, and relationships in a gentle and soothing way. They use soft instrumentals and vocal harmonies to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. These elements appeal to listeners seeking a calming and emotive musical experience. His Afro-pop style contributes to the album’s impact by creating a sense of vulnerability, relatability, and emotional connection with his listeners.
Steven’s favourite songs on the album are “Kemaratong,” “Kebatla Wena,” and “Lerato.” These tracks delve into his experiences with his girlfriend and their relationship, addressing the hardships they faced in society. These songs offer comfort as many listeners can relate to them. “I see this album giving many people hope and strength. When one listener listens to this album, he/she will share his experience with my songs and relate to the solution I’m giving him/her in my songs. The number of people will love it,” Steven said.
The title of the album, “Smezi Kazi (Palisa),” is named after Steven’s girlfriend, Palisa. The songs reflect the experiences they faced together in their relationship and life in general. Steven collaborated with several artists and producers on this album. He featured Sgadla_36 on “Nguwe Wedwa.” “Lerato” and “Kemaratong” were produced by Deepza and Sunset RSA. “Bayaphephereza” was created by DJ 4cas Lord and mixed and mastered by Deepza. “Bano Mona” features vocalist Alina. “Kebatla Wena” was written by Palisa and produced by Mpho.
Steven’s album aims to provide comfort and solace during difficult times, inspire hope and resilience in the face of heartbreak, celebrate the joy and beauty of healthy relationships, encourage self-reflection and personal growth, and create a sense of community and connection among listeners. As an artist, Steven hopes his audience will find strength and courage in their own love stories, develop empathy and understanding for others’ experiences, feel inspired to express their emotions and vulnerability, build meaningful connections through shared musical experiences, and experience personal growth and self-discovery through his music. “Music has the power to transform and connect lives, and my album about love can be a powerful catalyst for positive change!” Steven stated.
“I’m ready to work with anyone who wants to enter this music business or who has been in this music business,” he said. “I’ll continue performing around South Africa as well, and if possible, I’ll work with artists outside South Africa,” Steven added.
For more information, contact Steven via call or WhatsApp at +27 71 127 2949, or find him on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter under Smezi Artists. Alternatively, email him at stebierecords@gmail.com or zulushongwe92@gmail.com.
By Sibongile Sokela
