GOD’s Window for me means authenticity, honesty and preserving one’s culture, so says Thakzin, at his album and listening session.
One of SA’s celebrated producer and visionary DJ announced the release of his long-awaited debut album, Gods Window Pt.1. that has been in the working for the past four years.
The 18- track album was unveiled at the frequented Kwa MaiMai, downtown Jozi, this week, amidst the hustle and bustle of locals, at the eatery venue usually associated with all kinds of meat, ear-splitting maskandi music and traditional herbs.
Asked on why the title of the album and what influenced this project, the shy but rigid Thakzin said he wanted to take his “listeners on a spiritual and cultural journey that honours the past, embraces the present, and boldly imagines the future”.
He continued:” I do not follow or subscribe to formulas. I wanna be free on what I invest time and resources to, with vast returns of course. On the project God’s Window, it simply means the window does not judge and I should not judge what I do not know,” says the Ivory Park- Tembisa born.
“I’m a student who’s on a journey learning the intricacies of life and yes, I’m spiritual.”
Talk of spiritual, the fully-dreaded musician had drums, candles and umqombothi (traditional beer) and huge chunk of woods, in tow at the launch.
“This is more than an album. It’s a ceremonial offering. Meditative, ecstatic, and inquisitive. It’s a cultural bridge where diverse voices, traditions, and moments come together to create something timeless,” he explained.
Recorded between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and cities across Africa and the world, while touring, the album features contributions from some of the continent’s most influential voices.
Each collaborator is treated not as a feature but as a co-creator, weaving their stories and artistry into the fabric of the album.
“This project exists because of community,” he quipped. “It’s about the voices that shape us, the ancestors that guide us, and the unity that carries us forward,” says Thakzin on Gods Window Pt.1.
To some of us, Gods Window is a revered tourism hot spot in Mpumalanga, frequented by local and international travellers.
The album features the likes of Thandazo, Suffocate SA, Mörda, Xelimpilo, Sykes, Lyrik Shoxen, Xolani Guitars, Mhaw Keys, Leko M, Mpho WAV, Atmos Blaq, Citizen Deep, Tete, Baby S.O.N, Divine Keys, Jinger Stone, Mo-T, Mas Musiq, Mzizi, Sun-EL Musician, Mici, Mankabosane Cultural Group & Jordan Moozy
Thakzin, born Thabang Mathebula, has become a defining force in the global rise of African electronic music, having earned the support of legends including Black Coffee, Louie Vega, Keinemusik, and Laurent Garnier, amongst others.
He’s also famous for creating what is now known as 3-Step Afro house in mzansi.
Gods Window Pt.1. is available on all digital platforms and download stores.
Image SLM (DJ Thakzin recorded at his album launch Gods Window Pt.1. held at Kwa Mai-Mai, downtown Jozi).
