Although their family moved to Centurion when they were five years old, their story began right here in Umhlanga Rocks. For years, Lu-Zer was a “wallflower”, paralysed by stage fright while producing in their bedroom. “I only found my confidence in adulthood; singing for friends and eventually testing my voice at local karaoke spots.” The turning point was winning the Lady of the House SA demo competition. It was the ultimate validation that their childhood dreams were worth the wait and that their sound was ready for a global stage.
Sound & Inspirations
Lu-Zer’s sound is a genre-bending experiment that bridges alternative, trip-hop, and jazz, layered with raw rock textures and African soul. “I grew up on my parents’ favourites, specifically the textures of artists like Zamajobe; my debut single, ‘Ndawo Yami’, is an interpolation of my work and a tribute to my late mother, Mimmie Rose.” They frequent local jazz gigs, drawn to how organic sounds blend into atmospheric beats. The Umhlanga coastline remains their sanctuary; the beach is where they breathe and meditate, and you will be able to hear that breathwork in some of their upcoming music.
Shows & Festivals
Lu-Zer recently had their first live performance on eNCA after an interview in December, and they frequently shared their voice during improv jazz sessions at That Tuesday Funk in Jo’burg. Locally, they’re manifesting a solo showcase with Mamakashaka’s “The Listening Party” and sets at Rocking the Daisies, Cape Town International Jazz Festival, the SunBet Arena, and many more. Once their music is officially out, they have their sights set on some international locations, too.
What’s Next?
“I’m currently working on my upcoming EP, introducing it through intentional singles first. As a video producer, the visual treatments for this project are just as vital as the audio; each release is strategically aligned to tell a cohesive story through the marriage of film and sound. I’m excited to share my vision with the world, sonically and visually.”
Instagram: golfwangmami
Words by: Elvida Sydney
Photographer: George Q