Sound can shape how a space feels long before we consciously register it.
Music influences mood, energy and behaviour, which is why we reached out to Thando, founder of Zulu Music, to curate playlists for our buildings rather than leaving sound to chance. A well-considered playlist can calm and focus, or energise and connect—helping people feel part of a shared experience. Just as importantly, it reflects identity: music becomes a subtle but powerful expression of brand, culture and intent.
Our approach to sound is deeply informed by music expertise. Thando is passionate about the music business and takes a relationship‑first approach to working with artists, focusing on building sustainable businesses in a holistic and healthy way. He holds a master’s degree in Music Business from Tileyard Education (Distinction), was a recipient of the inaugural MMF Student Trailblazer Award, and took part in both the 2022 MMF Accelerator Programme and Wray & Nephew’s Wrayforward Music Business Accelerator. Since then, he has seen both artists and venues go from strength to strength.
Zulu Music’s roster includes JERUB, Persia Holder, OLORUNNS and Joel Baker, with recent highlights including JERUB opening the King’s Coronation Concert in 2023, selling out venues on his 2025 UK/EU tour, and surpassing 75 million streams to date.
Alongside this, Zulu’s work at Hackney Church continues to thrive despite the challenges facing mid‑sized UK venues, having hosted artists such as Sampha, Barry Can’t Swim, Shabaka Hutchings, Chris Martin, Laura Marling, Loyle Carner and Willow since reopening in 2021. This depth of experience is what informs our playlists—carefully curated, people‑first, and designed to help spaces not just function, but truly come alive.