Born Zwile Bhembe, ZwiLe is a multifaceted creative businessman and artist from Eswatini. His artistic foundation was laid during his early days at Salesian High School, before advancing his craft by studying Music Theory at Indumiso Music Academy. Over the years, he has collaborated with celebrated local and international artists, including Sjava, Big Zulu, and Judah.

ZwiLe is currently channelling his creative energy into developing a new four-track EP that explores Funky Smooth Jazz, rich live instrumentation, soulful melodies, and Afro-centric influences. This forthcoming project reflects a heightened level of artistic maturity and confidence, following the success of his earlier works, such as 'Sax & Sugar' and 'After The Rain'.

Alongside recording and performing, ZwiLe is actively building his entertainment company, Yemanteni Investments, trading as YEM!. His vision is to establish a sustainable career while creating opportunities for fellow creatives. ZwiLe shared that he is defined by faith, family, purpose, and continuous growth, and that being a husband and father has changed how he views success and responsibility.

ZwiLe's upcoming EP allows the music to communicate emotions beyond words, inspired by personal growth, the joy of the festive season, and creative freedom. The project features live instrumentalist contributions from Mayenziwe Dlamini on keys, Mwesigwa Kisaakye, and Daniel Chulu, alongside production by Phile Nkambule. His studio approach has shifted towards capturing a sound that feels organic, energetic, and alive.

As the high-tempo festive season unfolds within the hospitality sector, ZwiLe is gearing up for a productive schedule of hotel, corporate, and private entertainment bookings. Rather than simply filling his calendar, his priority lies in delivering exceptional performances and strengthening client relationships to position ZwiLe as a reliable entertainment brand across all seasons.

Managing a demanding schedule of back-to-back festive gigs requires strict physical discipline, particularly in preserving breathing, embouchure, and endurance as a horn player. ZwiLe prioritises preparation, hydration, adequate rest, and carefully structured sets to avoid burnout. He also safeguards quality time with his loved ones, ensuring that professional milestones never come at the expense of his duties as a husband and father.

Reflecting on the business side of local entertainment, ZwiLe emphasised that talent alone is insufficient; artists must grasp contracts, intellectual property, financial management, and brand protection to achieve long-term growth. He concluded by advising young artists to be patient with their journey, invest in their talent, understand the business behind their passion, and strive to create something meaningful that will positively impact the lives of others.

Key points

  • ZwiLe's new four-track EP explores Funky Smooth Jazz and Afro-centric influences, reflecting his artistic maturity and confidence.

Reporting sources

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.