Gumz on The Source: Returning Afro House to Its Spiritual Roots
Johannesburg, South Africa — The Source is being hailed as more than a festival. It is a pilgrimage, a ritual of sound and spirit. At the heart of this experience is Afro house artist Gumz, who sees his performance as both a celebration of the genre’s origins and a vision for its global future.
“When we say ‘the source,’ we are referring to the source of Afro house — the drums, the rhythm, and the chants. We want to move away from the distraction of lights, commercialization, and hype, and remind the public about the roots of this powerful music,” says Gumz.
A Cinematic and Immersive Experience
Unlike a traditional festival set, Gumz’s performance at The Source will merge sound with visuals, live percussion, and stage design.
“The music I will be playing will be visually communicated through projections that reveal the origins behind each track. Live drums and décor will help create an atmosphere where the audience can immerse themselves fully into the music.”
A Defining Moment for Afro House
For Gumz, The Source is an opportunity to break free from conventional club formats and showcase the depth of his artistry.
“This is a chance to fully express what my music is about — not limited to a usual setup, but expanded into spirit and atmosphere. The source of Afro house will be experienced. That’s what excites me most.”
South Africa at the Center of Global Afro House
Sharing the stage with Atmos Blaq, Da Africa Deep, and Pansula, Gumz sees The Source as proof of South Africa’s central role in shaping Afro house’s next chapter.
“The lineup includes some of the genre’s best exports. Each artist contributes uniquely, and together we become one body — The Source.”
With Afro house pioneers like Da Capo and Culoe De Song as his inspirations, Gumz sees this moment as part of a lineage that stretches from tribal house to global Afro-tech.
Looking Ahead
Billed as a prelude, The Source is only the beginning. Gumz envisions the concept expanding beyond Africa and onto the international stage.
“We see The Source becoming mobile — starting from its origin in Africa and moving to the world stage, with events at international festivals like ADE and in the USA.”
At the heart of it all, Gumz remains clear about where his creativity comes from.
“I am Christian, and the Holy Spirit is the source of my music. That is what drives everything I create.”
About The Source
The Source is a groundbreaking Afro house experience rooted in rhythm, ritual, and storytelling. More than a festival, it is a pilgrimage back to the origins of Afro house while pushing the genre into its global future.
