J. KHULU’S “HEARTS COLLIDE” EP DELIVERS GLOBAL AFRO HOUSE VISION

BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE

MANZINI– The highly anticipated moment has arrived. Eswatini’s celebrated Afro House music producer and recording artist, J. Khulu, officially released his new EP, “Hearts Collide,” on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

This seven-track project, issued under South Africa’s esteemed Garden Soil record label, is more than just a collection of songs; it is a profound declaration of J. Khulu’s expanding artistic vision, successfully fusing local roots with a compelling international sound.

“Hearts Collide” has been positioned as a significant step forward for the producer, demonstrating a sophisticated blend of deep, rhythmic complexity and soulful, emotive storytelling. The EP’s core appeal lies in its fusion of traditional Afro House elements with cutting-edge electronic production, creating a sound that is simultaneously spiritual and designed for the global dance floor.

The EP’s title track and centerpiece, “Hearts Collide,” immediately showcases this international ambition. The collaboration with Yellow100, a notable Mexican music group composed of a vocalist and producer, is a brilliant creative risk that pays off handsomely. The track successfully merges the pulsating energy of Afro House with subtle Latin-inspired electronic textures, illustrating J. Khulu’s ability to transcend geographical boundaries through music. This feature is a clear indicator of his burgeoning reputation and international appeal.

Equally impactful is the collaboration on “Kusile,” featuring upcoming house music producer AK Lenamba. This track offers a refreshing balance, pairing Lenamba’s modern influences with J. Khulu’s signature emotional depth, resulting in a piece that resonates with both rhythmic precision and evocative feeling.

Beyond the collaborations, J. Khulu reveals his deep versatility through the remaining tracks. Songs such as “Sihlangene egazini Lakho,” “Memezela kuJehovah” (featuring Bongwa), and “Kunini Ngizama” delve into spiritually inspired themes, weaving gospel depth and profound narratives into the club-ready format. Other tracks like “Gasolo” and “Susiidast” further cement his reputation for meticulous production and dynamic rhythmic arrangements.

In speaking about the creative process, J. Khulu highlighted the emotional and experimental nature of the project. “‘Hearts Collide’ is about moments where energy, emotion, and sound come together,” he stated. “It’s a fusion of my roots, my experiences, and the collaborations that helped shape this project.” This sentiment is palpable throughout the EP, which feels cohesive yet dynamically varied.

The release of “Hearts Collide” is a pivotal moment for J. Khulu, signifying not just a successful project delivery but a major milestone in establishing his presence on the global music stage. It solidifies his commitment to creating a sophisticated Afro House identity that is both authentic to his Eswatini roots and appealing to a worldwide audience.

As listeners begin to stream and absorb the diverse sounds of “Hearts Collide,” the consensus is clear: J. Khulu is not just a rising star but a formidable force prepared to redefine the landscape of Afro House music. The EP is currently available across all major digital platforms, and music enthusiasts are strongly encouraged to engage with this significant contribution from one of Eswatini’s most exciting musical talents.