Zwa: Zola Marcelle

innate creates presents Zwa… music, words, feels, culture

Zola Marcelle + Amy Nomvula (DJ)

The Bantu & Boundless artist, Zola Marcelle, is a Zimbabwean-born, London-based multidisciplinary artist. With a rare mix of Shona and Sotho heritage, her journey through music, culture, and history is steadily shaping her into an exciting contemporary voice of her generation. Raised partially in Bulawayo with a family steeped in music, Zola grew up with a deep connection to song and her African roots. Belonging to a generation of active participants in Zimbabwe’s independence struggle, Zola adopted a profound sense of responsibility, identity, and freedom.

Zola’s first EP, ‘A Peaceful War’, produced by Aron Kyne (Shingai, THABO, JulianKnxx), acted as a bold statement of powerful creative and immersive musical narratives. It was followed by the EPs—’done.undone.redo’ and ‘Becoming’ – both redefining sonic norms by incorporating just bass and vocals.

As live versions of her works, Zola has performed and headlined with her bass trio/quartet at some of London’s most iconic venues/showcases, such as EartH Hackney with JAZZ RE:FEST 2022, the Jazz Café, Southbank Centre, EFG London Jazz Fest, and the Brick Lane Jazz Fest 2024. This unique instrumental line-up in her performances has garnered positive recognition from major figures in the music industry, including Gilles Peterson, Soweto Kinch, and Jamie Cullum. Her music has received airplay on BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 6, KCRW, WWFM, and more, while also being featured in acclaimed director Adjani Salmon’s BBC drama Dreaming Whilst Black. In addition, Zola’s hand for songwriting and skill for performance has allowed her to work with with some of the UK’s finest jazz musicians including Daniel Casimir, Ashley Henry, Sheila Maurice-Grey and Myele Manzanza.

Zola Marcelle’s debut album, HOME, released under Jazz re:freshed in March 2025 marks the culmination of her musical journey thus far. The album is a tribute to her dual heritage, blending contemporary jazz, soul, world music, and elements of breakbeat into a singular, innovative sound.  With the production talents of Lewis Moody, Rudi Creswick and herself, HOME is not only a deeply personal exploration of identity but also a sonic offering that bridges Western and African musical traditions. Singing in multiple languages, Zola’s work embodies the spirit of a new era of cultural fusion, where borders blur and traditions evolve.