'New Wave' honours gqom's grit while elevating it for the world

THE pulse of Durban's streets has hit the global stage once again with the release of New Wave, a 16-track album crafted by Dankie Boi, Blacks Jnr and GoldMax.

- LUTHO PASIYA

DANKIE Boi Blacks Jnr and GoldMax are emerging as key leaders of gqom's next generation with their project New Wave. Facebook

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More than just a collection of songs, New Wave represents a bold evolution of gqom music, a genre born in Durban's vibrant townships and a central pillar of South African dance culture.

Speaking to Independent Media, Dankie Boi, born Mfanafuthi Buthelezi, explained that his approach to the album was rooted in respect for gqom's origins.

"Evolving gqom starts with understanding where it comes from," he said. "I grew up on that raw, minimal, hard-hitting Durban sound. With New Wave, I did not want to change gqom. I wanted to stretch it, add to new melodies and sounds, but keep the heartbeat intact - the heavy drums, the tension, the darkness. It is about showing people that gqom can grow without losing its identity. It is still the same spirit, just sharper, bigger, funkier and more global." Boi said that each track carries a piece of his roots.

"Durban's townships are loud, colourful, chaotic and full of character, and so is the music. You will hear the energy of the weekends, the taxis, the street dances, the youth culture and the hustle. Gqom has always been a voice for the townships, so the album represents that daily rhythm."