The Riddim King Returns: PTK (Michael Murumbi) Reflects on His Legacy and the State of Zimdancehall
Michael Murumbi, known to the world as PTK (Platinum the Killer), is a foundational architect of the Zimdancehall sound. After a period away from the limelight, the legendary producer, now based in South Africa, opens up about his journey, his impact on the genre's biggest stars, and his undiminished passion for creating hits.
The Beginning of a Legend
Born in Mbare on May 11, 1992, PTK's journey into music began in 2010. He would accompany his friend, musician Terry Vega, to Beat Bakery Studios. It was there that producer Elder Zindoga saw his potential and taught him the art of music production, setting him on a path that would soon define a genre.
After starting at Gunhill Records, PTK's career exploded when he moved to the Highfield-based Bodyslam Records. This studio became the epicenter of the Zimdancehall movement, and PTK was its chief sound architect, crafting the beats that would launch countless careers.
The Sound That Defined an Era
Among his many creations, the iconic Final Battle Riddim stands tall. It provided the foundation for Soul Jah Love's monumental hit, "Ndini Uya Uya," a track that immortalized both the artist and the producer in Zimdancehall history.
In 2014, PTK's genius was officially crowned when his Body Slam Riddim won Riddim of the Year. Featuring over 300 artists, the project was conceived by Simbarashe Chakare to uplift ghetto youth and became a cultural phenomenon, cementing PTK's status as a hitmaker.
The Riddim King Speaks
Confirming he is now based in Germiston, South Africa, PTK revealed he is as busy as ever. He has recently produced tracks for Zimdancehall giants like Killer T, Shinsoman, and Seh Calaz, and is working on a collaboration riddim with Alliviet called "Empire Trucks."
When asked about his status as the best ever Zimdancehall producer, PTK's response was confident and clear:
"It is obvious; I am. I am the one who introduced Zim dancehall to the people, and I am the one who introduced some of the big names like the late Soul Jah Love, Seh Calaz, Killer T and many more. Above that, I made the all-time best riddim, 'Body Slam'. They cannot beat that one."
His work now spans continents. PTK confirmed he is working with artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and even Jamaica, with a project featuring Jamaican artist Mr. Melody on the horizon.
Legacy & Reflections
Reflecting on the passing of his close collaborator, PTK expressed deep sorrow: "Losing Soul Jah Love was painful. I am short of words to describe the pain, but it was God’s will. We will always appreciate his music. He was a hitmaker, no doubt."
While acknowledging the good work of current producers, PTK believes the genre has changed. "To be honest, too many people are in Zim dancehall now... I feel the sound was top stuff back in the days compared to now," he shared.
Frequently Asked Questions
PTK, real name Michael Murumbi, is a legendary Zimbabwean music producer and artist, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the modern Zimdancehall sound. He is most famous for his work at Bodyslam Records.
His most celebrated productions include the Final Battle Riddim (which featured Soul Jah Love's hit "Ndini Uya Uya") and the award-winning Body Slam Riddim, which featured over 300 artists and won Riddim of the Year in 2014.
As of his latest interview, PTK is based in Germiston, South Africa. He continues to produce music for top Zimbabwean artists and is also working on international collaborations, including a project with a Jamaican artist.
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