GROUNDED ARCHIVES
About GROUNDED ARCHIVES
Grounded is an online archive/podcast aimed at creating a repository of easy-access information for members of the Southern African diaspora. By hosting short/long-form conversations with various Bantu academics and artists, this podcast plans to bridge the initial gap of knowledge amidst academic and the arts.
Access to accurate historical information, told specifically by members of the relevant cultures is scarce in the West, so our endeavour at Grounded is to empower all to reconnect with their roots and heritage through this archive.
Let's work together to create a very important archive of history, knowledge and understanding that is crucial for members of the diaspora whose lineage is still diluted and usually, for no fault of their own, tattered and incomplete.
COMING OUT SOON
About The Host
Zola Marcelle, a multifaceted music artist and cultural advocate, was born in Bulawayo to Shona and Sotho parents. Raised in England, Zola developed a keen interest in Civil Rights history, particularly in America and Southern Africa, which has deeply influenced her artistic and academic pursuits.
Zola's passion for music led her to earn a 1st Class Honours degree in Contemporary Music from Leeds Conservatoire (fka Leeds College of Music). Her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft have distinguished her as a notable artist in the UK Jazz music scene, performing for the BBC, London Jazz Fest., O2 Arena, Jazz Cafe, KOKO etc.
Her musical journey is deeply intertwined with her cultural heritage and academic interests, often reflecting themes of identity, heritage and history. This passion is best seen on her debut album HOME, released under the renowned UK Jazz label Jazz Re:Freshed. The body of work explores her sonic identity as a Shona/Sotho woman raised in the UK yet still firmly attached to her cultural practices.
Through the podcast series 'Grounded Archives', Zola seeks to broaden the understanding of identity among Bantu peoples at home and abroad.
'HOME' is a testament to her journey of self-discovery and her commitment to celebrating and preserving her cultural heritage through music.