Kenyan rapper Zum C is back in the spotlight with his brand-new single ‘Labda’. The track not only marks a new chapter in his artistic journey but also doubles as a reflection of how far music production has come in the country.
‘Labda’ is a crisp, emotionally-charged track that blends modern Afropop beats with the raw lyrical flow Zum C is known for. The track explores the uncertainties of love, life, and ambition all delivered in his signature style: soulful and laced with street wit.
But it is not just the lyrical content that’s catching attention. According to the rapper, the production process behind ‘Labda’ highlights just how drastically the local industry has evolved.
“Back in the day, we used to record in one-room setups with DIY equipment,” Zum C said.
“Now I’m working with producers who send beats from the US, mix engineers from South Africa, and within hours we can complete a song via Zoom or even WhatsApp. It’s a different era.”
Zum C credits this musical evolution to the growing accessibility of digital tools and global collaborations.
“We no longer have to go to South B or downtown studios just to lay a track,” he said.
“Today, you can record a hit in your bedroom with a mic and a laptop and make it to the charts if the sound is right.”
He also acknowledged platforms like YouTube, Audiomack, and Boomplay for levelling the playing field, allowing up-and-coming talents to distribute their music without the backing of major labels.
Zum C, who first made waves in Kenya’s underground hip hop scene nearly a decade ago, says Labda is part of a larger project in the works , a conceptual EP set to drop later this year. Without revealing too much, he hinted that the project will be “a fusion of trap, spoken word, and modern Genge all telling one story.”
He remains passionate about using music to not only entertain but challenge social narratives.
“Art has to reflect the times, but also elevate the conversation,” he said.