The Rise of Gqom
Gqom, the electronic dance genre that emerged from the streets of Durban, South Africa, has quickly become a global phenomenon. With its raw, minimalist sound, marked by deep basslines and aggressive rhythms, gqom commands the dancefloor like no other genre. Pioneers like DJ Lag and Babes Wodumo were essential in shaping the sound, helping it evolve from local underground music to an international sensation.

DJ Lag: The Father of Gqom
Gqom began in the early 2010s when young producers in Durban, eager to create something unique, combined traditional African rhythms with electronic elements. DJ Lag was one of the first to take gqom to international audiences, releasing tracks like “Ice Drop” and “Pop Off” that resonated with listeners for their pulsating, minimalist beats. Lag’s contribution to gqom has earned him the title of the “father of gqom,” and he became one of the first artists to sign with international labels, bringing attention to this vibrant, rebellious sound.

Babes Wodumo: Breaking into the Mainstream
Babes Wodumo became another key figure, her hit single “Wololo” making waves not only in South Africa but also across the African continent. Babes helped gqom break into mainstream media, especially with her bold stage presence and unapologetic energy. As one of the first female faces of gqom, she proved that the genre was a space for everyone, regardless of gender.

Moozlie: Expanding Gqom’s Reach
But gqom’s rise wasn’t just about its powerful beats—it was also the community of artists and producers that surrounded it. Moozlie, an artist who mixes gqom with hip-hop, further pushed the genre’s boundaries and helped it attract a broader, more diverse audience. With collaborations across different genres, Moozlie made gqom more accessible to listeners worldwide.

Global Expansion: Gqom Goes Worldwide
The genre didn’t stop at South African borders. Gqom’s international appeal grew through tastemakers like Black Coffee, whose collaborations helped bring gqom to European dancefloors. His involvement in global music festivals and DJ sets spread the infectious rhythms of gqom to new audiences, cementing its place in the international club scene.

The Role of Gqom Oh!
A major factor in gqom’s growth was the establishment of the Gqom Oh! record label, founded by French producer Mehdi Ameziane. The label brought together talented producers from South Africa and abroad, expanding gqom’s reach even further. This collaboration between international labels and South African artists made gqom a significant part of the global electronic music movement.

Gqom’s Global Footprint
Today, gqom’s influence can be heard across the world. Cities like London, Berlin, and New York, once known for their own dance music scenes, now feature gqom-heavy nights. The genre is celebrated for its ability to bring people together, its rhythms pushing dancefloors into a collective trance. It’s no longer just a genre for South Africa—it’s a global movement.

The Future of Gqom
Gqom is a genre deeply connected to its roots, reflecting South Africa’s vibrant youth culture and the drive to create something new. As it continues to evolve, the genre remains fresh, innovative, and diverse, propelled by the pioneers who shaped it. The future of gqom is bright, with its raw energy continuing to inspire artists and music lovers across the world.

main image: DJ Lag