‘ZNi & Friends’ to Ignite Columbia City Theater On MLK Weekend
Photo: Brady Beaton
Legendary Seattle artist ZNi International is taking over Columbia City Theatre with a cast of local musical talent over MLK weekend for his show “ZNi & Friends.” Melding his own takes on reggae, pop, hip-hop, and afrobeats, ZNi is a force in the Seattle scene both in and out of the studio, bringing people together through the healing power of positivity and international appeal.
A Star-Studded Lineup
With ZNi headlining, “ZNi & Friends” is set to feature an all-star roster of local artists, including DJ Supreme, Lerato, Navicha, The Stoop Team, Jazze Elements, Afreesha, and Maurice Davis. The show will be hosted by Dedriq Trinide.
A Global Vision for Unity and Positive Vibes
A Zimbabwean American born in Seattle, ZNi is all about building globally and uplifting locally. He sees his music as an apparatus of international unity. "Music is like sports. It brings people together of all races, of all genres, of all likes, of all religions, you name it. Music is an ultimate healing tool,” he said.
On top of his latest bangers like “Better” and throwbacks like “Celebrate,” ZNi also flexes his creative muscles as a producer, linking up with brands like T-Mobile, Well Being Trust, and Microsoft, and even producing music for Lionel Messi in an Adidas commercial. Talk about a creative powerhouse!
Pioneering Legacy and Family Influence
Central to ZNi’s journey is the influence of his father, Abraham Dumisani Maraire, a celebrated percussionist, musician, and singer who played the marimbas, the hosho, and drums. Maraire is recognized for pioneering Zimbabwean music in the Northwest and the Western world, a legacy that has forged ZNi’s sound and purpose as an artist.
Maraire guided ZNi’s musicality from a young age, letting him produce a marimba song at age 10 and encouraging him to follow his musical instincts while never forgetting his roots. As a result, his son’s musicality transcends cultural boundaries, but never veers too far from where it all began.
"Music is a calling for me. I'm walking in my purpose right now when I do this," ZNi said.
“ZNi & Friends” is happening Saturday, January 17 from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at Columbia City Theater, 4916 Rainier Ave S, Seattle. Get your tickets here.
