Joe Blog

Lia Butler is what we call a music protégé — a young, live music maker and bold voice ushering in a new era of South African soul. Born Nombulelo Mzobe and raised on the sun-kissed coast of Durban, Lia has carved out a sound she calls Neo Zulu — a genre-fluid blend of Neo Soul, Umbhaqanga, Maskandi, RnB, and Amahubo — music rooted in her childhood and heritage.Her voice is raw silk — unfiltered, emotive, and deeply spiritual. Through every note, she is leading the charge for a new generation of vocalists who believe in uncompromised singing, depth, and intention. Her sound is not just heard — it is felt.Lia has earned recognition from iconic voices like Simphiwe Dana, Thandiswa Mazwai, Sho Madjozi, and Moozlie, who have celebrated her originality and sonic courage. Her music has been featured on major radio platforms like YFM, Metro FM, and beyond.She has also begun to build an impressive list of collaborators — having worked with a dynamic range of prominent artists including Marcus Harvey, Zoocci Coke Dope, Maglera Doe Boy, Blxckie, and Blue Pappi, to name a few. As her catalog grows, so does her influence — with streaming numbers and fan support rising steadily.With two personal projects already released — STE (Smiling Through Everything) and ISIQEPHU — Lia is steadily stepping into her own light. Her performances blend the ritual of Amahubo with the groove of future soul, forming a live experience that’s as moving as it is magnetic.Lia Butler is more than a rising star — she’s a force. A voice from the soil. A sound for the now. And a spirit shaping tomorrow.