Dalisu Ndlazi began his music career in Umlazi at the Siyakhula Community Music Centre founded by jazz legend Brian Thusi, and he maintains that his strong sense of confidence in his music originates from the moment his high school teacher handed him a bass and bass book. He has been a regular attendee of the NYJF, first as a student when he was selected for the National Schools’ Band (2012) and later in the National Youth Band (2015-2016), and is now performing on stage in a professional capacity. He is an alumnus of UKZN, where he was selected to participate in an exchange with the VCU Jazz Institute in the US. He has recorded and performed with local and international artists and is well-known for his strong, swinging groove and great musicianship.

‘The Inevitable Calling’ explores his passion and love for music alongside newfound interests in composing and the position of band leader. The project refers to ‘a response to a call beyond oneself, using a gift and soundness to re-imagine the present world for the better’. Music to Dalisu is a means of expressing who he is and his thoughts, beliefs and connections to his loved ones and the world around him. To him, music is both home and the feeling of existence.

Production Credits