Studio Diary: Making of 'KUZOKHANYA'

KUZOKHANYA — meaning "it will shine" in Zulu — started as a simple piano loop at 3 AM in a Seoul studio. What began as four chords and a feeling grew into one of the most personal tracks in the Ebstar catalog.

The collaboration with Roline was serendipitous. After connecting through mutual friends in the South African music scene, a voice note exchange turned into a full studio session within weeks. Roline's vocal texture brought exactly the warmth the track needed — grounding the electronic production in something deeply human.

Production-wise, KUZOKHANYA sits at the intersection of Amapiano and piano house. The log drum patterns pay homage to South African roots while the layered synth pads and arpeggiated leads push the sound into more progressive territory. Finding that balance took over 40 different arrangement iterations.

The mixing process was equally meticulous. Every element was designed to serve the vocal — the kick drum punches through without competing, the bass sits just below the vocal register, and the high-frequency shimmer of the synths creates space rather than clutter.

The title carries deep personal significance. In a year filled with new beginnings and challenges, "it will shine" became a mantra. The track is both a promise and a prayer — a reminder that light finds its way through, always.

KUZOKHANYA featuring Roline is available now on all streaming platforms.