Big Zulu
- Birth name: Siyabonga Nene
- Born: 7 April 1986
- Place of birth: Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Main activity: Rapper, songwriter
- Musical genre: Rap
Career
Big Zulu began his career as a taxi driver before he decided to pursue his passion for music. He took part in the Back to the City rap contest in 2013 and came out as the winner. He then joined Universal Records and released his first single Donsa Nkabi in 2016. He is famous for his Inkabi rap style, which is a mix of Maskandi and hip hop. He raps in his native language IsiZulu and tackles social issues such as poverty, crime and violence. He has worked with other artists such as Cassper Nyovest, Kwesta, Musiholiq and Mnqobi Yazo. He has also appeared on popular South African soapies such as Isibaya, Uzalo and Isithembiso. He has released three albums so far: Ushun Wenkabi (2018), Ungqongqoshe Wongqongqoshe (2019) and Ichwane Lenyoka (2021).
Dating history
Big Zulu has not revealed much about his dating history and past relationships. However, some sources say that he was once rumored to be involved with Bonang Matheba after a video of them holding hands went viral online. Big Zulu dismissed the rumors and said they were just having a conversation as friends. He also had a previous relationship with a woman who gave birth to his son, Shaka. The identity of the woman is not confirmed, but some sources say that her name might be Bulelwa Nazo.
Children
Big Zulu has two kids. He has a daughter named Melokhule with his girlfriend Lebogang Makenete. He also has a son named Shaka from a previous relationship.
Discography
These are Big Zulu's albums:
- Ushun Wenkabi (2018)
- Ungqongqoshe Wongqongqoshe (2019)
- Ichwane Lenyoka (2021)
- Inkabi Nation (2022) - This is a collaborative album with artists from his label, Nkabi Records, including Xowla, Siya Ntuli, Mduduzi Ncube, and Lwah Ndlunkulu.
- Ukhamba (2023) - Another collaborative album, this time with Sjava as Inkabi Zezwe.
- Ngises' Congweni (2024)
- Icala Le Mpumelelo (2025)
Big Zulu has several popular singles, often featuring other artists. Some of his most recognized tracks include:
- Mali Eningi (feat. Riky Rick & Intaba Yase Dubai) - This song achieved significant success, being certified double platinum.
- Umbayimbayi
- Voicemail (with Mduduzi Ncube, Lwah Ndlunkulu, Siya Ntuli & Xowla)
- Isiginci (featured on Mduduzi Ncube's song)
- Umuzi eSandton (feat. Lwah Ndlunkulu)
- Inhlupheko (feat. Mduduzi Ncube)
- Mfazi Wephepha (featured on Nkosazana Daughter & Master KG's song, also featuring Zee Nxumalo)
- Sayona
- Abazazi Bafunani (feat. Emtee)
Awards
Big Zulu has won several awards for his work in the music industry. Some of them are:
Big Zulu has had a particularly strong showing at the SAHHA, notably in 2021, where he secured a record-breaking seven awards. His wins included:
- Album of the Year
- Song of the Year
- Best Male
- Best Collaboration
- Best Video
- Best Digital Sales
- Ubuntu Activism Award (for his social reform efforts)
