In 2024, Afro House music became a global phenomenon, energizing dance floors from the streets of Paris to the clubs of Johannesburg.

This genre, which blends elements of tribal house, deep house, and Afrobeat, has grown in popularity while staying true to its rhythmic, percussive roots. Afro House has become a unifying sound, connecting people through its raw energy and cultural resonance.

In recent years the Zimbabwean Afro House scene has gained momentum with 2024 being a landmark year.

Events like Hindé, Garden of House, Kaos, Deepend, and House in the CBD have provided platforms for artists and fans to come together in celebration of this vibrant genre.

These gatherings have not only showcased the depth of talent within Zimbabwe, but also fostered a sense of community among Afro House enthusiasts.

At the forefront of Zimbabwe’s Afro House movement is Samuel Cosmic, an artist whose innovative approach is shaping the genre’s future.

As the founder of Roots, an event series dedicated to Afro House, Samuel has created a space for die-hard fans to connect and celebrate the music they love.

Music, Pan African, Entertainment — Samuel Cosmic, Image: Tinashe Gakaka ( Gaxx Photography)

Samuel’s journey into Afro House began as a teenager when he discovered the genre’s hypnotic rhythms.

Over time, his sound evolved, blending electronic beats with Afro-inspired melodies. His breakthrough came with tracks like “Dangerous” and “Halele”, which resonated with listeners worldwide thanks to their catchy hooks and universal themes.

Now with over 417,000 Spotify listeners, Samuel Cosmic is now one of Zimbabwe’s most exciting musical exports.

In an exclusive interview with GQ South Africa, Samuel opened up about his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and his vision for Afro House.

GQ: Your music blends electronic beats with traditional African rhythms. What inspired your journey into Afro-house, and how did growing up in Harare shape your sound?

Samuel Cosmic: My journey into Afro House began when I discovered house music as a teenager. Its pulsating beats and rhythmic energy instantly resonated with me.

I started with Progressive House but realized I wanted a sound that reflected who I am. So, I merged electronic elements with the traditional sounds I grew up with.

Harare did not directly shape my sound, but I was fortunate to meet like-minded people who believed in me and supported my growth.

GQ:Rob Macson has been a major influence in your career. Can you share a lesson from your time with him that changed how you approach music?

Samuel Cosmic: Rob Macson taught me the importance of authenticity in both production and performance. He is a visionary in Harare’s electronic scene, and his support has been invaluable.

One standout lesson was to stay true to my sound and not compromise my creative vision. His guidance helped me refine my craft and grow into the artist I am today.

GQ: Your collaborations with Nite Freak have been groundbreaking. How do you stay authentic to Afro-house while appealing to a global audience?

Samuel Cosmic: It’s about understanding the roots of Afro House, it is polyrhythmic beats and percussion and blending them with modern electronic elements.

Nitefreak is a master of rhythm, and working with him helps maintain authenticity while pushing boundaries.

There’s no magic formula, but we focus on respecting the genre’s heritage while making it fresh and exciting for a global audience.

GQ: Tracks like Dangerous and Halele have connected deeply with fans worldwide. What made these songs resonate so strongly?

Samuel Cosmic: Those tracks took off because of the incredible team behind them, who helped get them on multiple platforms. I love experimenting with beats and melodies to create an engaging sonic experience.

Dangerous and Halele touch on universal themes that people can relate to, and the catchy hooks make them unforgettable. It’s all about creating something listeners can feel and remember.

GQ: Roots Afro House seems to be a passion project. What motivated you to start it, and how do you see it impacting the Afro-house scene?

Samuel Cosmic: Roots Afro House is driven by our love for music and the desire to create a platform for Zimbabwean artists. It is not just about me.

I have an amazing team working with me to build a community that supports local talent and connects them with global audiences.

Right now, our focus is on providing a space for creativity and growth, but who knows? It could reshape the Afro-house scene in ways we haven’t imagined yet.

GQ: Your latest single, Mogre, featuring Stevo Atambire, blends Afro-house with traditional Ghanaian sounds. Why Stevo, and how do you balance heritage with innovation?

Samuel Cosmic: Stevo is an incredible vocalist in the Afro-house scene, and his voice fit Mogre perfectly. His global following also helped the track reach a wider audience.

This project is about bridging the past and present—showcasing how African music can evolve while staying true to its roots.

GQ: As an Afro-house artist from Zimbabwe making waves globally, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

Samuel Cosmic: Financial constraints are a big challenge, limiting opportunities for growth. But I have been lucky to have a supportive network of friends and family who believe in me.

Competing in a global market is tough, but strategic collaborations and staying committed to my craft have kept me moving forward.

GQ: You have hinted at incorporating Zimbabwean traditional instruments in your next project. What inspired this, and what can fans expect?

Samuel Cosmic: I am inspired by a desire to celebrate and preserve our cultural heritage. Fans can expect a fusion of traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with modern electronic sounds, a vibrant, dynamic experience that honours where we come from while exploring new sonic landscapes.

GQ: Your versatility as a producer is clear in your cross-genre collaborations. How do you choose artists or genres, and what excites you about these projects?

Samuel Cosmic: I am drawn to artists who love to experiment and align with my vision. Sometimes it’s about reaching new audiences other times, it’s about challenging myself.

Each genre brings its own flavour, and stepping out of my comfort zone keeps things fresh and rewarding.

GQ: With over 417,000 Spotify listeners and a growing global audience, how do you see your music shaping Afro-house? What legacy do you hope to leave?

Samuel Cosmic: I want Afro-house to stay relevant and thrive across the globe. My dream is for the genre to fill dance floors for decades and create lasting memories.

Ultimately, I hope to leave behind a movement that celebrates our culture and keeps the music alive for future generations.

GQ: As a mentor and founder of Roots Afro House, what advice would you give to emerging DJs and producers?

Samuel Cosmic: Work hard, be innovative, take risks, and never give up. There is someone out there waiting for your music to change their lives. Stay true to your craft and remember it’s not just about you, it’s about the people who connect with your sound.

GQ: Your live shows are known for their immersive energy. How do you create that connection with the audience, and how does performing live shape you as an artist?

Samuel Cosmic: I put everything into my shows, countless hours of preparation and attention to detail. Each performance is a story, not just a playlist.

I want the audience to feel like they are part of something special. Performing live is exhilarating, and every show pushes me to evolve and offer something new.

GQ: What are your biggest dreams and plans for the future? Any exciting collaborations or milestones?

Samuel Cosmic: Touring the world is my biggest dream, playing everywhere, from local venues to Ibiza. I have some exciting collaborations coming up, but I will reveal those soon.

For now, I am grateful for how far I have come. Charting and reaching a global audience still feels surreal.

GQ: Afro-house and African music are making a global impact. What sets African music apart, and how do you see your role in this movement?

Samuel Cosmic: African music is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in culture. It stands out because it carries stories and rhythms that resonate universally.

My role is to contribute to this movement by showcasing the beauty and depth of our music and making sure it is recognized and celebrated worldwide.

Written By Takudzwa Nyambi