Zimbabwean DJ Samuel Cosmic is a maestro of Afrohouse: he’s a musical alchemist who brilliantly blends African beats with Western influences. He curates Roots, a series of Afrohouse events in Zimbabwe which gives rising DJs a platform to innovate and connect with a new audience

Design//Life Africa: What’s the story behind the name Samuel Cosmic?
Samuel Cosmic: I was crafting some galactic space electro house beats and the name just seemed to fit the cosmic vibe. It reflects my desire to take listeners on an interstellar journey through sound.

What inspires your music?
The mix of Western sound and Southern African rhythms is a perfect blend of worlds that creates such a captivating sound. I’m also inspired by my experiences and the cultures that I come across.

Which DJ has significantly influenced your journey?
Nitefreak has opened so many doors for me by introducing me to a network of talented artists. (See “Unfiltered”, our interview with Nitefreak.)

What three words best describe your creative process?
Melody, flow, connection.

Tell us about “Mogre”, your single that features the award-winning Ghanian musician Stevo Atambire.
“Mogre” is a fusion of Afrohouse and traditional Ghanaian sounds. Stevo’s kologo playing and his voice brought such a unique texture to the track. I love it.

Which Zimbabwean musician do you admire the most?
Oliver Mtukudzi – he was a true legend. It would have been such an honour to work with him. His storytelling through music was magical, and his ability to connect with audiences was unparalleled.

Which Zimbabwan artists would you like to work with?
So many! Nasibo, Aleck Macheso, Gemma Griffiths and Jah Prayzah. They all bring something unique to the table.

How do you think African artists can push the boundaries of music?
We have such a rich diversity of sounds and cultures to draw from. By collaborating and embracing our uniqueness, we can blend different styles and traditions to create something new and exciting.

If you weren’t a DJ, what would you be?
An astronaut. I love space, and it would be incredible to explore the cosmos in real life. There’s something about the mystery and vastness of space that fascinates me.

Where would you love to perform?
If I was an astronaut, on the moon. Imagine the zero-gravity dance moves and the view of Earth as my backdrop. It would literally be out of this world.

What’s the craziest thing that has happened during a performance?
Once the power went out mid-set, but the crowd started singing “Halele”. It turned into an amazing a cappella moment. It was incredible to see everyone come together and keep the energy alive.

Any words of wisdom for upcoming DJs?
Be authentic, be open to learning, make connections. Collaboration is key to growth and success.

As told to Sandra Ndoro

“Mogre” by Samuel Cosmic and featuring
Stevo Atambire is out now.
IG: @samuelcosmic
IG: @roots_zim

Halele (Alex Wann Remix) &friends, Samuel Cosmic, Oluwadamvic, Alex Wann

Dangerous (Samuel Cosmic Remix) &friends, Samuel Cosmic, Dr Feel, Phina Asa

Ineko &friends, Samuel Cosmic, Phina Asa

Zimbabwe’s freshest DJs are lighting up the scene with Afro-infused rhythms and electrifying blends. These rising stars are redefining the sound with bold energy and global edge. It’s pure fire on the decks

Jay is an accomplished DJ and music producer from Harare. His sound is a powerful fusion of Afro rhythms and cutting-edge electronic elements, creating an unforgettable sonic experience. With years behind the decks, Jay has carved out a distinct voice in the regional and global music scene. His performances are both soulful and electric, leaving crowds energised and craving more. Jay is not just playing music – he is shaping the future of Afro-electro sound.
IG: ­_jay_dj._

Bam Bam Madame are Kalai and Nicky – best friends, artists and DJs with a sound that’s eclectic and electric. From West African house to London grime and spicy Latino twists, their sets are super-fun sonic adventures. What started out as an experiment at friends’ parties has turned into something big: they’re in demand on the Harare circuit, collaborating with percussionists, vocalists and producers, and about to hit the studio to record their debut track, out next year. When they’re on the decks, it’s a green light to let go: their dancefloors are all joy, all night.
IG: bambammadame_music

Murphy Cubic is a DJ and producer making waves in the Afrohouse and dance scene. Known for hit singles such as “You” by Holly Rey and “Polo” with DJ BigSky, his sound blends Afro-pop, club rhythms and alternative flair rooted in his Bulawayo upbringing. He began DJing in high school and transitioned into music production by 2015, quickly earning recognition across Southern Africa. His collaboration with Zimbabwean songstresses Gemma Griffiths and Kyla Black further showcases his versatility and ability to craft emotionally rich tracks. With chart-topping productions and a growing global presence, Murphy Cubic is leading Zimbabwe’s new-school dance music movement.
IG: @murphy_cubic

TAPIWA is a dynamic DJ, producer and multi-instrumentalist from Harare. His sound fuses Nineties rave nostalgia with the pulse of contemporary African rhythms, creating a genre-defying experience. Influenced by Afro-pop, AEDM and house, his music links roots with innovation. He has earned support from major names such as Martin Garrix, Nitefreak, Bob Sinclar and Kygo. With global radio play and a growing fanbase, TAPIWA is fast becoming a stand-out sound.
IG: @tapiwazw

RORRI is an emerging DJ making waves in Zimbabwe’s electronic music scene. As a resident DJ at the Skeyi&Strobo Fabrik Party, he commands diverse crowds with his smooth, genre-fluid sets. His journey includes opening for top acts such as Nitefreak, Samuel Cosmic and Jason Le Roux under the House-Warming banner. With a versatile sound and strong community focus, RORRI is dedicated to growing the local dance scene. His rising profile marks him as one to watch in the Afro-electronic space.
IG: @theoriginalrorri

BellaBoom is North Carolina’s finest DJ disco troublemaker, now lighting up dancefloors in Zimbabwe; with a name like that, how could she do anything else? Mastering the decks during a 66-day Covid lockdown in Shanghai, by 2022 she was tearing up the Inner Circle at Burning Man and hasn’t stopped spinning since. Her mixes (disco, indie dance, old-school laced with modern beats) are the kind of brave, fizzy soundtracks that turn any night into the night. These days you’ll find her behind the decks in Zimbabwe. She plays only for friends – which feels almost cruel because we all need more BellaBoom
in our lives.
IG: @carriewats_

Sandra Ndoro