By Nkosazana Ngwadla
Given Zulu was born in the small town of KwaDukuza in the Kwa-Zulu Natal. When boys his age played soccer outside, you would easily find a young Given making music in his mother’s house. But it was only at the age of 14, at North Coast Primary School, that he realised he had the skill to produce/make sounds using his mouth, which later became a big thing during his time at school. Given quickly became the school’s entertainer at talent shows and class assemblies, under his stage name ‘Given Zulu the Beat Box Star’.
A little later, Given taught himself how to play the guitar and started incorporating the beatboxing while strumming.
“I was on a discovery journey; realising what I could do, learning what I could not, and trying to discover what sounds resonated best with me. That journey is exciting and never-ending,” he tells The Fuse.
Moving on up!
After completing matric, with the guidance of his mother Pretty Jabu Zulu, Given attempted Architectural studies at the University of Johannesburg, “but after just one year I obviously dropped out, it just wasn’t for me. So, instead, I registered myself at Damelin College for sound engineering and graduated in 2018,” he says.
While studying, Given found his sound. His continued study of music, coupled with his late father, Eric Jabulani Zulu’s music collection growing up, gave birth to Given’s passion for African ethnicity.
“I love that true South African sound from artists like Mafikizolo, Johnathan Butler, Hugh Masekela, Jabu Khanyile,” naming a few artists that inspire him. “I call my sound ‘Premium African Music’, its royalty!” he exclaims with beaming pride.
It might’ve taken some time and a little convincing, but Pretty couldn’t be prouder of her son, “she’s my biggest fan now, I couldn’t be happier,” says a smiling Given.
Turning COVID-19 woes into wins
The suspension of social gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired Given to host online shows: Instagram Live Sessions with Given Zulu.
He had some of the most celebrated artists of our time, like Ziyon, Thabsie, Kerry 2 Smooth (Jill Scott’s guitarist), Berita, and Brian Temba, to name a few, grace his ‘virtual stage’. The initiative aimed at having creatives render a 30-minute workshop on the music business, craft, and the music itself.
“I can safely say that initiative resulted in many solid connections, and just taught me a lot about the industry. The traction was also great, I’d do it again for sure.”
Award-winning producer
Today, Given is an award-winning composer, musician, producer, and audio engineer who has worked with the likes of Amanda Black, Ami Faku, DeMogul SA, DJ Ganyani, Kid X, Lungisa Xhamela, Professor, and composed adverts for companies like Capitec, FNB, Momentum and many more.
While his knack for sound engineering has seen him work with SABC News programs, which include Morning Live, Kids News, Trendz, Newsroom, Health Talk, The Globe, and African perspective.
Given has also scored and sound-designed Choose Life, a documentary which was aired on national television in 2021 – he currently produces library music and radio jingles that have been featured on well-known TV programs like Skeem Saam, Uzalo, and Ingane Yam.
“I think it’s important that people follow their dreams. But in following your dreams, you need to upskill yourself as much as possible. Do the necessary studies, research and constantly be in a state of learning.
“Comparing yourself to others will only distract you, don’t do it. Stay in your lane, work hard, and have fun, always. Remember that your background should not determine your path but allow it to influence and inspire you – you will be surprised how far that’ll take you,” Given says before dashing off to his home studio.
Get in touch with Given at this email address: givenmusicsa@gmail.com
Image Credit: Supplied
