After a long absence from the spotlight, one of South Africa's most influential musical duos demonstrates that some stories never end. The duo Liquideep, which has won awards and created iconic compositions such as Fairytale, Alone, Still, BBM, and Rise Again, has announced a significant phase of its long-awaited return to the music industry after signing a contract with the music distribution company Africori/Warner Music.
The Significance of Liquideep's Music
For many South Africans, Liquideep's music defined an entire era. Their melodic blend of house, R&B, and electronic music was everywhere—at weddings, during trips, and in evening playlists, with the track Fairytale becoming one of the country's most enduring modern hits.
A New Phase of the Duo's Development
The duo, consisting of Thabo 'Ryzor' Shogo and Jonathan 'Ziyon' Hamilton, is now beginning a new chapter motivated not only by nostalgia but also by a drive for artistic growth and global ambitions. This announcement comes against the backdrop of Liquideep already gaining public attention because global superstar Tyla reinterpreted the song Fairytale on her hit second album APOP. This collaboration introduced the beloved composition to millions of new listeners, completing the circle for a track that first captured hearts more than ten years ago.
Comments from Members and Partners
Ziyon noted: 'When we wrote Fairytale, we never imagined it would find a new audience so many years later.' He added that hearing an artist like Tyla, who promotes South African music globally, embrace this song is 'an incredibly special feeling. It reminds us that great music never belongs to a single moment in time. It evolves, grows, and continues to unite people.'
Thanks to this increased momentum, Liquideep's partnership with the music distribution company is expected to bring their recognized catalog and future releases to a global audience through Warner Music's international distribution and artist development network. The duo stated: 'This feels like the beginning of something incredibly significant. We were never interested in a simple comeback for nostalgia. We wanted to return because we still have something honest to say through our music. The partnership with Africori and Warner Music gives us the opportunity to honor the past while creating something capable of reaching an audience worldwide.'
Returning with New Meaning
After stepping away from the public eye to focus on personal and creative growth, Ryzor and Ziyon are returning with a renewed sense of purpose, while maintaining the soulful sound that made them famous. The label also believes that the duo's influence extends far beyond commercial success. Adam from Africori/Warner Music stated: 'Liquideep are true pioneers whose music has become part of South Africa's cultural identity. Their songs continue to resonate years after release because they are based on authenticity, mastery, and emotion.'
As new compositions are anticipated, Liquideep informs fans that they can expect songs reflecting the lessons, experiences, and artistic evolution gained during their time away from the spotlight. The duo concluded: 'We have always believed that music should connect people. That has always been what Liquideep represented. This partnership allows us to dream bigger, create without limits, and share our music with the world again. We are home, but we are also entering a brand new season.'
