Abongile Gando

Abongile Gando, better known by his stage name ZOWA ZAR,born in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, South Africa. He is a dynamic and versatile artist known for his unique fusion of Xhosa Trap, Amapiano, R&B, and Dancehall. Rooted deeply in his cultural heritage, his music prominently features the distinctive Xhosa sound, which blends traditional elements with modern urban music styles. Based in Johannesburg, ZOWA ZAR has established himself not only as a singer and songwriter but also as a skilled DJ, mastering the art of live performances. His dynamic range and innovative approach to music have earned him recognition across South Africa's vibrant music scene. In 2025, ZOWA ZAR's exceptional talent was celebrated when he won an Artes Award in Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone in his career and highlighting his influence in contemporary South African music. In addition to his artistic pursuits, ZOWA ZAR is the founder and owner of 1TT RECORDS, a record label that supports emerging and established artists, fostering creativity and growth within the industry. He also hosts a popular deep house radio show called the "Ziyakhala Experience," where he showcases fresh sounds and connects with fans through curated sets that blend soulful beats with energetic rhythms. ZOWA ZAR continues to push boundaries, bringing the rich sounds of the Eastern Cape and Johannesburg’s contemporary music scene to audiences both locally and internationally. Work 2026 ReleasesXhozu - EP (January 9, 2026):Khweh (feat. Taylor Blunt SA)KillIntro 2025 ReleasesSteeze - EP (November 7, 2025):Ndise Goli (feat. Craylaw Junior, Blunt Sabby, NepKid & KATI ELINCANE)My Life (feat. Slindokuhle Ngidi)Watch MeSuperman 11:11 - EP (2025):Phung Phung (feat. Mikkie SomaQhuzu)QulaUphethe MaliniSauce (feat. Taylor Blunt SA)Nton NtonQula 2.0 (feat. Blunt SaBBy) $Lime - EP (2025):Ishu (feat. Taylor Blunt SA) Lit - EP (2025):NxubakaxakaKing KongMojoLit