Tshepo Khumalo, who is renowned as “Ziddo,” an award-winning producer, recently represented his hometown on the big stage of the Central Music Awards.
City Hall in Bloemfontein was abuzz with excitement on 15 November, as the annual Central Music Awards celebrated its standout talents. Among the celebrated artists was one remarkable music producer, Tshepo Khumalo who received the prestigious Best Producer of the Year award—a moment both proud and motivating for his career.
Reflecting on the journey, he shared that although he couldn’t recall the exact date of his nomination, the news filled him with excitement and anticipation for the ceremony. This award is important as it marks his first professional recognition in music production. The accolade not only acknowledges his changing artistry but also pushes his ambition to keep working hard.
One of the challenges Ziddo faced in his music journey was a rejected visa application for a European performance, which he overcame by focusing on releasing successful projects that broadened his opportunities.
As Ziddo believes in Collaboration, He takes pleasure in creating environments where artists feel supported to express their best, following his rewarding work on the track ‘Unembeza’ with Darque & Section Five. His production style blends emotional energy with strong elements in Afro Tech and House.
Having graduated in music production, he balances his technical skills with creative intuition, drawing mentorship from industry veterans like Prince Kaybee, whose influence blends piano and synth in innovative ways. He emphasizes the importance of innovation to keep pace with music’s evolution while maintaining a personal Artist identity.
“Dedication, patience, continuous learning, and authenticity are keys to success.”
The 2025 Central Music Awards provided a fitting stage for this talented producer’s breakthrough, highlighting his artistic journey and setting the tone for a promising future in music production.
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