South African music visionary DJ C-live is proud to introduce a new creative chapter: ZEN – a sonic and spiritual alias rooted in his middle name, Zenzele.
ZEN is not a replacement for DJ C-live; he is an extension. Where DJ C-live represents the legacy of hip-hop radio, broadcasting, and cultural commentary, ZEN marks a deeper journey into intentional sound, design, and Afrocentric connection.
“This alias isn’t about leaving something behind; ZEN has always been lurking in the background,” says ZEN. “It’s about realignment. It’s about returning to what truly resonates — sound, story, soul, and self.”
Beyond the Beat: A Movement in the Making
Best known for championing authentic hip-hop and urban music as a radio host, tastemaker, and live performance maestro, DJ C-live now expands his artistic reach through ZEN — a creative director, experience curator, and movement builder.
From launching the Hot 99 Hip-Hop Countdown to producing visual content for cultural milestones like the late AKA’s Orchestra on the Square, ZEN continues to shape sound and story with intention. His work across The Culture, Voov TV, Club 808, YFM, 5FM, and Channel O’s The Mix Up, among others, has cemented his legacy both behind and in front of the camera.
His genre-crossing discography includes:
- Coco Dreams ft. PdotO & T Phoenix
- Coco Dreams Remix ft. PdotO & T Phoenix, Nveigh, P-dot O, DeeKay Did It, ELLIoT BLeSS, & Gigi Lamayne
- Ziyawa ft. Just Bheki, Anzo & Musiholiq
- Monate Fela ft. Mad on Dough
- We Stay Winning ft. AB Crazy & Kapital K
- Potential ft. Aymos & Gobi Beast
- Potential Remix ft. DJ Cleo, Aymos & Gobi Beast
- Hey Black Girl ft. Ntsiki Mazwai
His #JustTheTipMashup series blends nostalgia, cinema, and soul in a way that’s earned critical acclaim across music and digital art circles.
The Journey Ahead
While his next projects remain under wraps — what’s clear is that this new direction is much bigger than one moment. It’s a curated path forward, a cultural movement shaped by intention, rhythm, and collaboration.
This isn’t the end of DJ C-LIVE — it’s the expansion of his creative ecosystem. ZEN represents his deeper pulse, his spiritual groove, and a series of projects that will unfold with precision.
You’re invited to experience the unveiling of what’s to come. Collaborations, creative moments, and soulful events await. Be part of the movement – 01 August 2025.
The event promises an unforgettable evening of great music, energy, and ambiance.