Emerging artists often have the talent and determination to succeed in the music industry, but finding opportunities to showcase their abilities can be a challenge.
In KuGompo, LZK Production is working to change that by helping young musicians discover their potential and find a platform to share their gifts.
Established five years ago, the non-profit organisation supports aspiring singers and DJs by helping them develop their skills, record music and build the confidence needed to
perform in front of an audience.
The production company currently has a minimum of 16 beneficiaries under their
supervision.
LZK Production was founded by Nokulunga Sambinjana Tom, known as “Lunga” or “Lizzy”, and Mphumzi Tom.
The idea was born out of a desire to help underground artists who struggle to gain
recognition and opportunities in the music industry.
Nokulunga, who was born in Makhanda and raised in Cape Town, said witnessing how
emerging artists were treated, inspired her to find a way to help them get their voices
heard.
“When this organisation started in 2021, it was just one artist, “Mr Nkoh”.
“Then I made it official by introducing more artists and DJs,” she said.
At the heart of LZK Production’s work is the belief that young people should be
encouraged to develop their abilities, rather than abandon their dreams because of a lack
of support.
The organisation aims to help young people focus on their talents, build confidence
and pursue their passion for music.
Nokulunga said some aspiring musicians gave up too easily because they lacked a
support group of people who believed in them and she encouraged them to continue
despite the challenges.
Through the organisation, artists receive assistance with recording their songs, while DJs
are encouraged to connect with other industry players.
However, gaining recognition remained one of the biggest challenges facing
emerging musicians, Nokulunga said.
She said artists often struggled to attract the attention of companies and secure
performance opportunities.
She also spoke about the difficulties some musicians faced when approaching venues
for opportunities to showcase their work.
LZK Production hopes to address these challenges by promoting its artists and seeking
opportunities for them to be heard on television, radio and other platforms.
“They have talents that are tremendously amazing, but no one gives them a chance to
showcase it,” Nokulunga said.
The organisation has also received support from local businesses willing to help
emerging musicians gain exposure.
Jay Lala “Mr Jay” , who owns Cindy ’s Pub and Dine, has provided the organisation with an opportunity to showcase its artists.
The support gives the musicians a chance to reach audiences and introduce their
talents to the local entertainment scene.
Another supporter is Bavuyisile Ncanywa, also known as “Mr Bav”, who owns
Area Code 043, a fully equipped recording studio.
He lives in the Santa area, West Bank, and has assisted the organisation by making
recording resources available to aspiring musicians.
Such partnerships are important to LZK Production’s efforts to create opportunities for
artists who might otherwise struggle to access recording facilities and performance
platforms.
Despite the progress made, the organisation continues to need assistance to expand its
reach and support to more young people.
Nokulunga hopes that businesses, music industry stakeholders and members of
the public will recognise the potential of emerging artists and help create opportunities for
them to grow.
Those interested in joining LZK Production can find the organisation on Facebook under
Lzk Nko or contact it via WhatsApp on 063-382- 3108.
Prospective members are encouraged to discuss their expectations with the
organisation before joining.
artists by creating opportunities for them to develop and showcase their musical talents. Picture: SUPPLIED
