“Southern Africa has an incredible musical energy, and I’ve always admired how its producers and artists continue to shape sounds that travel across the world. Working with JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela on ‘IMALI’ was an organic creative experience — it’s different cultures meeting through music and creating something bigger than borders.”
—Fireboy DML
For JAZZWRLD, this collaboration signifies another important step towards uniting diverse musical cultures.
“Music allows us to connect beyond geography. Creating ‘IMALI’ with Fireboy and Thukuthela was about finding a shared rhythm between our worlds and letting the production speak to Africa, to home.”
— JAZZWRLD
Thukuthela emphasizes that the song epitomizes the rising trend of African collaborations and the artistic freedom that results from transcending barriers.
“This record is a celebration of African creativity. We each brought our own identity into the studio, and the result is something that feels fresh, emotional and represents how connected our music scenes have become.”
— Thukuthela
The release of the official “IMALI” music video coincides with the single, further illustrating the collaboration. Directed by Gabriel OBE, the video visualizes the song’s themes of ambition, perseverance, and the quest for success in a polished, cinematic style.
The visual presentation maintains a golden-thread aesthetic that connects to Fireboy’s earlier projects, particularly “CLAAAT.” The use of black-and-white shots serves as a base, with strategically added red elements providing contrast and a dynamic visual experience.
“IMALI” also represents another exciting chapter in Fireboy DML’s path leading to his upcoming project, ZUKO, as he delves into new sounds and meaningful artistic partnerships throughout the African continent.
“IMALI” by Fireboy DML, JAZZWRLD, and Thukuthela is currently available on all major digital streaming platforms, alongside the official music video.
