Zonke’s unconventional album release gets mixed reviews
In March 2023, Zonke took to Instagram to confirm the title of her fifth 15-track studio album titled Embo. Sharing the official cover for the album, Zonke then used the caption to confirm that with the release of the album she was going “old school.”
This is as she ditched the conventional avenue of releasing an album through digital streaming platforms (DSPs) first before making physical copies available. Moreover, she confirmed that the album was not going to be available via any DSPs. Instead the album was set to be released only as a CD, vinyl and USB.
At the time, her announcement did not make much of an impact. However, following the official release of Embo on Friday, 21 April 2023. Fans and lovers of the singer-songwriter then took to social media to share their various opinions on the unconventional release.
For the most part, it seems that social media is in support of Zonke taking the unconventional route in terms of releasing her album. So much so that there have been questions on why mainstream radio stations are not playing any songs from the latest album.
I saw and gasped.
But I totally understood and said a small prayer that she wins
zonke just want to enjoy the fruits of her label as much as the giant corporation machines and how south africans enjoys her craft. a very wise business woman if you ask me🫶
Despite the lack of support from mainstream radio stations, it seems that the album is selling despite the high price range. This is as Zonke confirmed that there was a second rollout in terms of delivering the USB version of the album still.
Moreover, in light of the release of the new album, Zonke has already curated her upcoming live performance for the new album. Initially meant for later this month of April 2023 at Carnival City, Zonke has postponed the performance to a later date. Specifically, on Friday, 12 May 2023 with tickets available via Computicket.
