Sydney-based jazz-soul singer Major Zulu teases her next EP – that's due for release in 2025 – with the playfully mesmerising 'Honey Honey'.
An artist whose career has seen her travel from her native Zambia to London followed by time spent in Paris, it was a couple of years ago that Major Zulu decided to uproot her artistic base and travel to the other side of the globe – Sydney – to continue her music endeavours while embracing love."Leaving behind cherished friendships, family, and the familiar comforts of home, I embarked on a journey across the globe for love," shares Major Zulu. "This song is a testament to the courage and passion that drive such a daring endeavour."
Cinematic, euphoric electronic tones are quickly absorbed by the mellifluous vocals of Major Zulu, the funk-laced pop-soul melody entangled with a bright, jazzy Afrobeat rhythm, the feel-good vibes flowing as freely as a bottle of weekend champers with the girls.
There are touches of Jamiroquai, The Quantic Soul Orchestra and Moloko throughout 'Honey Honey', while Major Zulu's own connection with Earth Wind & Fire also shines brightly.
Ahead of the song's release tomorrow, today (28 November) scenestr is thrilled to premiere 'Honey Honey'. Enjoy.
"The inspiration for 'Honey Honey' drew from a diverse musical landscape. I'd been listening and dancing to a lot of Afrobeat songs lately. I was captivated by the simplicity and infectious grooves of Afrobeat artists like Omar Lay and Wizkid.
"Additionally, during my time in Paris, my booking agent, Groove Productions, presented me with the opportunity to open for Earth Wind & Fire, who had a resurgence after their music was reintroduced to the world in the French film 'The Intouchables', by Eric Tolendano and Olivier Nakache, allowing me to delve deeper into their iconic sound.
"These influences, along with the admiration my parents held for Earth, Wind & Fire all contributed to the creation of 'Honey Honey', a song that blends soulful melodies and rhythmic grooves."
Lyrically 'Honey Honey' – which was co-written and co-produced by Elida Zulu and Andrew Morrison, mixed by Richard Belkner and mastered by Steve Smart – is a love song inspired by the magic of starry nights in Australia.
"'Honey Honey' is such a simple song but it's pretty radical for me," admits Major Zulu. "I realised the sheer audacity of my decision to move to Australia, a country I had never been before.
"It captures the exhilarating mix of youthful excitement, the fear of potential heartbreak, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Australian night sky. I was simply letting my love interest know that this drastic move could be beautiful if he loved me the same and did not break my heart."
The song also has a dual connection for Major Zulu, who travelled from Paris with her trusty, furry sidekick. "I have a Jack Russell called Dave who I adopted while I lived in Paris.
"He was too upset to be left at home for the long periods of time while I was leaving him to go to the studio and record. I made a decision to take him to the recording studio with me.
"As I looked at Dave and sang the words to 'Honey Honey', I started contemplating my move to Australia for love, I realised that my beloved Jack Russell, Dave, had made a similar sacrifice. Leaving behind his familiar surroundings and canine companions, he endured a long journey and quarantine period to be by my side.
"This unwavering loyalty and love inspired me deeply. My little dog was a part of this love journey and supported it."
Major Zulu will debut 'Honey Honey' live and other exciting new works with an upcoming Sydney show at Foundry 616 Jazz Club on Saturday 21 December.
