Growing up surrounded by Africa’s living rhythms
In bustling Maputo, Wilson Timba’s childhood was a tapestry of vibrant music woven into family gatherings. Discussions or celebrations would pulse with the beats of traditional African songs, and as a young boy, he was mesmerized. One evening, everything changed: a DJ spun those ancestral rhythms into something electrifying, modern—and magical. In that electrifying moment, music lit a fire in his heart.
Music as universal connection
For Timba, DJing became more than playing tracks—it was about making people connect beyond words or boundaries. Music, he believes, dissolves language and culture, and brings people together in shared emotion. His passion is rooted in identity: he wants to carry African heritage into modern soundscapes, and touch audiences around the globe through that bridge.
A breakthrough track: Tabasamu
One of his most defining achievements was the release of Tabasamu, a track featuring Kenyan vocalist Idd Aziz. Released in June 2024 on DM.Recordings, the song received support from legendary South African DJ-producer Black Coffee. For Timba, Tabasamu was the proof point: that his sound could travel far beyond Mozambique, resonate with global audiences, and earn recognition from powerhouses in the Afro-electronic scene.
The humble beginnings in Maputo
Wilson’s journey didn’t start in luxury. From 2014, he began playing local gigs around Maputo with modest setup and scarce resources . But hardship forged resilience. He taught himself to be creative with what he had. Earning recognition wasn’t easy—but every challenge sharpened his skills and grounded his sound in authenticity.
More of Timba’s discography and collaborations
Timba’s sound evolved in phases. Collaborations and releases along the way include:
- “Paradise Vol. 1” with South African vocalist Tsimo (around 2021–2022)
- “Felish” (2023) and “Uyabizwa” featuring Tabia (2024)
- “Uhambo” with Morete & Natasha MD on Brazil’s Moustache Records
- “Ubuntu” on Urber Records and “Terra” with Brazilian artist Jéssica Gaspar
- In 2025, he released “Ungubani” with Malik Mustache and Gugupash on Bedouin’s Human By Default label—garnering support from Bedouin, Adriatique, and &ME (Keinemusik)
Stage presence on the world’s top stages
Timba’s performances reflect his growing global footprint. He has played at Brazil’s Laroc Club (ranked #8 in the world), RW Club, Dhaus Club, at the International H2O Festival in Mozambique, and at Raeeth in Goa, India. These stages go beyond just music—they are cultural exchanges, where his African-rooted sound meets the world.
Building culture: AfroDiziacs label
Timba is co-founder of AfroDiziacs, a Brazil-based label aimed at promoting Afro-electronic culture through energetic back-to-back sets and international collaborations. Through AfroDiziacs, Timba is not just an artist, but an ambassador for a fusion sound and cultural exchange that spans continents.
Current focus: New Afro-House and live performances
Right now, Wilson is creating new Afro-House releases and designing live shows that fuse African roots with modern sounds. His vision is clear: to elevate Mozambican music on world stages, instill cultural pride, and inspire emerging artists from his home country.
Lessons learned: Patience, consistency, authenticity
If there’s one firm lesson Timba stresses, it’s this: success doesn’t come overnight. He learned that patience and consistency matter more than quick wins. By staying true to his voice and dedicating himself to steady growth, he’s building something lasting.
Advice to his younger self
If he could talk to young Wilson, he’d say: trust the process. Don’t rush for the spotlight. Challenges are part of the path. Keep going. Every effort—every small win—is paving the road forward.
Legacy he hopes to build
Timba wants to be remembered as someone who carried African rhythms to global stages, connecting cultures through pure emotion and sound. His legacy: a wave of Mozambican music that moves hearts around the world.
Social presence
He is active with fans on TikTok (@iamwilsontimba), Instagram (iamwilsontimba).
Final Thoughts
Wilson Timba’s story is more than a career—it’s a cultural movement. From the heart of Maputo to stages in Brazil and India, he brings stories, rhythms, and identity to the global stage. With determination, authenticity, and a clear vision, he embodies how African music is not just surviving—but thriving, evolving, and inspiring.
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