A new creative force is developing in the pulsating world of South African dance music, fusing the electric sounds of Electronica/Dance with the contagious rhythms of Afro-house. Meet South African musician Vibez LOTV, a rising artist from Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, whose soul-stirring music captures listeners' attention. Vibez LOTV transports listeners to a world where rhythm acts as a transcendent force that bridges, divides, and promotes harmony through his blend of techno, soul, and the essence of South African vibes.
Vibez LOTV, a self-taught music producer with a decade of dedication, draws inspiration from the likes of Larry Heard, Culoe De Song, and the renowned Black Coffee. After debuting in 2016 with "Voices/The Shape Shifter" under the pseudonym "EL Ritmo Vibes," Vibez LOTV's talent blossomed. The release of "Hamba Nam" in the same year showcased his growth as an artist. However, his 2018 extended-play offering, "Feel The Vibes EP," genuinely solidified his presence in the industry.
In 2022, Vibez LOTV rebranded and unveiled his latest EP, "It Was Written," which features collaborations with Amanda X, Nozi, Nina Moody, and BennyThwala, garnering widespread acclaim and cementing his position as a rising star. As we delve into Vibez LOTV's creative process and inspirations, it becomes apparent that "It Was Written" is not just an EP but a manifestation of his artistic evolution.
Inspired by a poetry piece born out of life's trials and tribulations, Vibez LOTV explores the idea that everything happens for a reason, and our response to the present moment is within our control. Compared to his previous work, this project is deeply personal, serving as therapy through creating soul-stirring records and collaborations with exceptional talent. The EP showcases Vibez LOTV's growth as a musician and reflects his harmonious alignment with his craft.
In this installment of #OnTheSpot, we unpack Vibez LOTV continued foray into artistic evolution. Through the guise of manifesting his vision of creating more music, collaborating with exceptional talent, and reaching new heights with each release, amidst other conversational touchpoints, we delve into the ambition of a creative who has his sights on leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape, articulating himself as a true trailblazer, with soul snatching snares, kicks, drums, profound lyrics, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.
Stream “Indlela (feat. Nozi) Here:
What was the inspiration for your new project? Can you tell us more about it?
The project's name," It Was Written," is a direct translation of the phrase Maktub in Arabic. Everything happens, as they say, for a reason; how we react in the present is the only thing we're ever in control of. The EP was inspired by a poetry piece that took form inspired by life events and is a classic example of turning lemons into lemonade through artistic expression.
How does your current project compare to your past work? What creative space are you in currently?
Compared to my previous work, this one is more personal and captures the therapy I get in creating records and collaborating with the talent out there, with a lot to offer regarding creative ability. Musically I feel more in tune and aligned.
When you make a decision about a creative direction or style for a song, do you stick to it, or do you often change the original concept?
I'm a spontaneous person, and with that said, my creative process is exactly that a lot of times. Concepts sometimes come in the visual form, then I work backward or from a piece of writing that begs to be finished as a song. I often stick to the original concept, although I may execute it differently as ideas keep popping up in my head.
Who's currently influencing your life the most?
Quite a few people, family and friends, might've made a small contribution that changed my outlook on life and made me appreciate all that is good in life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The greatest advice is Don't die twice.
What's a phrase or saying you use almost every day?
Lol "Yoh"
What's the hardest change in your life you had to go through?
The loss of a loved one is something one cannot easily adjust to. However, I'm generally one who embraces change instead of fighting it.
In your opinion, whom do you consider to be a visionary?
A lot to mention; however, my quick pick would be Black Coffee.
Name your current secret obsession and why?
Animation, well apart from the lingering memory of my grade 6 teacher asking me what I'd like to do, and I boldly replied, "A cartoonist," to which she laughed off as being a silly job ( which would explain why it has been a secret) I've found that my love for animation and cartoons has been slowly creeping back on me.
Artists are impactive in so many ways; how do you want to impact the world through your artistry?
I want to be the reason someone tells a story of how music saved them in their darkest hour and make soundtracks for the moments and memories we make daily.
When was the last time you tried something new? What was it?
Lol, this question is why I should get out more and try new things.
What are you manifesting in 2023?
More music, more collaboration, and reaching new heights with every release.
Stream “Ukhona (feat. AmandaX) Here:
Connect With Vibez LOTV
Twitter: @Vibezlotv
Instagram: @Vibezlotv
YouTube: @Vibezlotv