Zimbabwean-born, London-based rapper Shumba Maasai has released his latest single, ‘Still’, a soulful and hypnotic blend of Afrohouse, UK Rap and Jazz that reaffirms his place as one of the most dynamic cross-cultural voices shaping London’s underground soundscape. The single, out August 6th in partnership with Python Syndicate, invites listeners into a lush sonic world where Southern African rhythms meet the textured richness of UK jazz improvisation and rap storytelling.
By Plot Mhako
‘Still’ continues Maasai’s run of acclaimed collaborations, following on from his contributions to Steam Down’s “Can’t Hold Me Back” (2021), Theon Cross’s “Roots” (2021) and the Touch and Go remix of “Would You?”. This latest offering features Ahnansé, saxophonist and bandleader of Afro-Punk collective Steam Down, whose signature horn lines deepen the track’s hypnotic atmosphere.
Switching seamlessly between English and Shona, his mother tongue, Shumba delivers a lyrical meditation on attraction and intimacy. With playful lines like “Alright Chimoko chindirakidza, too sweet unotapira, discover yourself ndokubatsira”, the song pulses with sensual energy while maintaining the thoughtful poetics that define his work.
The track is produced by Aron Kyne, known for collaborations with Shingai (Noisettes), Julianknxx, and THABO, and features additional layered vocals from Liz Lubega, creating a textured soundscape that flows between intimacy and transcendence. Reflecting on the process, Shumba describes the collaboration as effortless:
“The track came about very organically – me and Aron started the idea, then Ahnansé came over, heard it and sent over his sax solo. It was such a natural, organic process working on this. I love this one and can’t wait to share more music with you in this new era.”
For Shumba, who relocated from Harare to London as a child, music is both personal and political – a bridge to his Zimbabwean roots and a reflection of his diasporic journey. Beyond his recordings, he is a cultural curator and community-builder, founding Ancestral Futures and Plus TRBE, platforms that champion Afro-diasporic expression and innovation. His multidisciplinary approach extends to immersive projects and commanding live performances, including standout Boiler Room sets that highlight his lyrical dexterity and stage presence.
With the release of ‘Still’ and an eagerly anticipated album and exhibition on the horizon, Shumba Maasai is poised to expand his influence as a bold, bilingual voice for the global underground.
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