Contributing Writer
Afro-Tech innovator Shimza is back with his powerful new single ‘Darling’ featuring Aloe Blacc, out now on Helix Records.
‘Darling’ builds around a mellow synth-laden groove, showcasing the signature Afro-Tech sound that Shimza has pioneered. Featuring Aloe Blacc’s fresh and soulful vocal take on Ben E. King’s 1961 classic ‘Stand By Me’, this is a track that exudes both timelessness and innovation.
Since the smash success of EDM game-changer ‘Wake Me Up’ with Avicii as well as huge solo success with singles such as ‘The Man’, Aloe Blacc‘s powerful vocals have been sought out by countless big-name DJ/producers including Gryffin, David Guetta and many more. His soothing, energetic blend of pop, R&B, classic soul and, at times, Caribbean sounds (a nod to his Panamanian roots) is unmistakable, bringing star power to any track it touches.
The new single release comes at a momentous time for Shimza, having just played a sold out KOKO London show on 9th February, while working through his intercontinental tour dates across the US, Europe, Africa and South America, including a much-anticipated Cercle Festival appearance at the unique venue of the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace at Le Bourget. Shimza is truly a star that has risen, and can now be seen in every corner of the electronic music world.
Unquestionably one of South Africa’s brightest talents, Shimza real name Ashley Raphala has established himself as a leading light and one of the true roots of the global Afro-Tech scene, expanding the genre’s reach worldwide.
The Tembisa-born DJ, producer and promoter’s rise to fame is littered with accomplishments, too numerous to list. But if you ask him, one of his most significant accomplishments has been launching and hosting his “One Man Show” event brand – a large scale outdoor party held every Christmas Day to raise funds for underprivileged children, which has showcased some of South Africa’s hottest artists including AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Riky Rick, Black Coffee, Mi Casa, Black Motion and many more.
With a back catalogue boasting acclaimed collaborations with CamelPhat, WhoMadeWho, Louie Vega, and many more, Shimza has forged and developed his own signature Afro-Tech sound, blending hypnotic beats with synthesizer loops and sensual vocals.
Unsurprisingly yet with a hint of anticipation, Shimza has even more in store for this year. He is in the final stages of completing his new studio LP, which will enlist an even wider array of collaborations with elite artists.
Stream the collab single in full HERE
Shimza Live Dates
1st March: Ultra Festival, Cape Town
2nd March: Ultra Festival, Johannesburg
15th March: Massif Winter Festival, Romania
16th March: SXM Festival, Saint Marteen
21st & 22nd March: WMC Miami
22nd March: Spy Bar, Chicago
23rd March: The Chocolate Factory, NYC
29th March: Unlimited Festival, Chamonix
# # #
Follow Shimza:
Follow Aloe Blacc: