Internationally celebrated South African DJ and producer, DJ Lag, announces his highly anticipated sophomore album ‘The Rebellion,’ set for release on 21 June 2024. Alongside the news, he shares his latest single, ‘Oke Oke,’ featuring the dynamic Spanish artist Jazz Alonso, available on all key platforms via Black Major. Additionally, he announces a worldwide tour with a huge headline date at London’s Village Underground on 25 May 2024.
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DJ Lag’s latest project marks a bold evolution of his distinctive sound, building on the resounding success of his previous album, ‘Meeting With The King.’ Praised by esteemed publications and music critics, DJ Lag’s influence has soared with latest hits like ‘Hade Boss’ and the ‘Re-Up’ earning certified viral status and earning a platinum record in South Africa with over 10M streams. As a globally acclaimed DJ and producer, he is celebrated for his pioneering contribution to Gqom.
‘Oke Oke,’ the latest track from the upcoming album, showcases DJ Lag’s innovative prowess by seamlessly blending South African rhythms with Jazz Alonso’s captivating vocals. Crafted during an inspired late-night session in London, the track immerses listeners in a realm of desire, vividly described by Jazz Alonso: “Set by the sea at night, eating black grapes and drinking dark rum, a lover is in the ocean, asking you to join them. You take off your clothes and chains and pass from having a fantasy to becoming the fantasy.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, DJ Lag shares his enthusiasm: “Collaborating with Jazz was exhilarating. Her sound deeply connected with me, and our partnership unfolded seamlessly.” In terms of production, Lag has partnered with Grammy-nominated UK producer GG (Gabrielle Stok): “The inception of ‘Oke’ was spontaneous; Jazz initiated the idea, crafting the flow and lyrics on the spot, with GG and myself completing the song that very evening.”
With ‘The Rebellion,’ DJ Lag solidifies his status as a trailblazer in Gqom, infusing innovation while honoring his musical heritage. The album promises an eclectic offering, maintaining Lag’s DNA while exploring sounds like 3Step, Afro Tech, Amapiano, Hip Hop, and even Drill. On the 13-track record, Lag has assembled a stellar roster of guest artists, stamping each song with his signature sound.
From acclaimed EPs to high-profile collaborations, DJ Lag has showcased a musical gift that sets him apart as one of electronic music’s most exciting creators. Recently awarded the best Gqom album at the South African Music Awards, his impact on the global music scene has been nothing short of remarkable, further evident through his critically acclaimed bodies of work, extensive press coverage, and worldwide tours. Originating from Durban, DJ Lag pioneered the Gqom sound, crafting original tracks with little more than FruityLoops during his school days. His music quickly gained traction, with taxi drivers in Durban using his tracks to attract customers as early as 2012. Since then, he has embarked on numerous international tours, captivating audiences at renowned festivals and venues worldwide.
As he continues to push boundaries and connect with audiences worldwide, DJ Lag remains deeply rooted in his hometown of Clermont, fostering a devoted fanbase through events like Something for Clermont. With his world tours, festival dates, and the release of ‘The Rebellion,’ DJ Lag continues to redefine the sonic landscape, cementing his legacy as one of electronic music’s most exciting creators.
TRACKLIST:
1. Iza Ngamandla (feat. Sykes, Vanco)
2. Bamba (feat. Workaholics)
3. Hade Boss (feat. Mr Nation Thingz, K.C Driller)
4. Trouble (feat. NovaBoy)
5. Yebo (feat. Kamo Mphela)
6. Dubula (feat. Da Man)
7. Oke Oke (ft. Jazz Alonso)
8. Ubhiya
9. Kwenzakalan (feat. Blxckie, Leodaleo, Dezzodigo)
10. Shay’sana (feat. Kamo Mphela & Robot Boii)
11. Yeyeyeyeye (feat. Sane, Charlie Magandi)
12. Gqom/Drill (feat. YoungstaCPT, Dee Koala, Holy Alpha, Kay Faith)
13. Hade Boss Re-Up (Feat. Mr Nation Thingz, K.C Driller, DJ Maphorisa, Kamo Mphela, Robot Boii, 2woshort, Xduppy)
TOUR DATES:
26.04 Berlin, GERMANY
06.05 Ibiza, SPAIN
10.05 Wuppertal, GERMANY
11.05 Bratislava, SLOVAKIA
17.05 Barcelona, SPAIN
18.05 Manchester, UK
19.05 Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS
24.05 Oslo, NORWAY
25.05 London, UK
07.06 Vancouver, BC, CANADA
08.06 Portland, USA
13.06 Denver, USA
15.06 Seattle, USA
19.06 Los Angeles, USA
22.06 Washington DC, USA
27-30.06 Glastonbury Festival
Image Courtesy: Supplied