© Nkateko Masinga
With his bold, genre-defying sound and deep connection to his Zulu roots, Th&0. pushes boundaries in both music and storytelling, inviting listeners on a transformative journey of love, loss, and self-discovery.
“I’m Th&0., an artist and storyteller deeply rooted in my Zulu heritage. My identity is a tapestry of tradition and modernity, woven through my upbringing in South Africa and my journey as a musician and creative. I draw from the rhythm of my culture and the pulse of the world around me to craft music that feels both timeless and immediate.
As a creative, I’m an explorer. I thrive on experimenting and merging different worlds—be it through sound, visuals, or storytelling. I’m not afraid to push boundaries and dive into vulnerability because that’s where authenticity lives. My art is a reflection of my curiosity and my commitment to expressing the full spectrum of the human experience.
© Nkateko Masinga
Love, in all its forms, is the most universal yet intricate emotion we experience. With [my latest album] Emlotheni, I wanted to unpack the layers of love—not just the romantic highs but also the loneliness, the heartbreak, and the self-discovery that come with it. Musically, I wanted to challenge both myself and my listeners by blending genres and experimenting with unconventional structures and textures. It’s an invitation to feel deeply and think critically, all while immersing yourself in the sonic journey.
Emlotheni is an evolution. While Ebusuku [the debut album] was a reflection of solitude and introspection, Emlotheni is about stepping out into the world again, with all the scars and lessons carried from those quiet moments. The pandemic amplified that introspective space, and coming back to music after such a transformative global experience required me to approach everything differently. Musically, Emlotheni builds on the textures of Ebusuku, but it’s bolder, more layered, and unapologetically experimental. It represents growth and resilience.
The video for Lonely? is a visual poem. The desolate landscapes mirror the internal feeling of isolation, while the subtle shifts in light and colour symbolize the hope of connection. The suit I wore in the video reflects the tension between outward composure and inner vulnerability. As for the album art, it’s inspired by African surrealism—a blend of tradition and futurism, with symbols that speak to the themes of love, loss, and renewal. Every element, from the colours to the textures, is meant to evoke emotion and invite interpretation.
© Th&0.
My style is an extension of my storytelling—bold, eclectic, and rooted in identity. I love mixing traditional elements with contemporary silhouettes to reflect the duality of who I am. Statement earrings and tailored suits are my armour, a way to celebrate individuality while nodding to my heritage. I aim to make my style as layered and thought-provoking as my music.
© Nkateko Masinga
I’m inspired by artists like Michael Franks, Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Paul McCartney —visionaries who create without fear. My dream collaboration would be with someone who shares a similar ethos, like Mark Ronson or Unknown Mortal Orchestra. I’m drawn to people who approach music as an art form, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new terrains.
The biggest challenge [as an artist] is staying true to your vision in a world that often prioritizes trends over authenticity. As a creative, there’s also the constant pressure to outdo yourself, which can lead to self-doubt. I overcome these challenges by grounding myself in why I started—focusing on the art and the connection it creates. Surrounding myself with a supportive team and taking breaks to recharge is also vital to sustaining my creative energy.
© Nkateko Masinga
The dream is to continue evolving as an artist while reaching more people globally. I’d love to explore more interdisciplinary collaborations—bringing together music, film, and visual art in innovative ways. And yes, a UK tour is definitely on the horizon! Performing live is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do, and I’m excited to connect with listeners in that shared space. Stay tuned!”
Comments