Lumanyano Mzi is a South African-born, New York-based award-winning drummer, composer, producer, and bandleader.

Born in Cape Town, Lumanyano's musical journey began at the age of six when his curiosity led him to sneak out of his home to watch his father’s reggae band rehearse. That night, fate intervened when he stepped in for the missing drummer, impressing his father with his natural talent. From that moment, his passion for music flourished, shaped by the sounds of reggae, jazz, African music, and gospel, which deeply influenced his self-taught drumming style. He went on to formalize his training at the University of Cape Town’s South African College of Music, where he graduated in 2017. Seeking to expand his musical horizons, he moved to the United States in 2021 to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where he graduated in 2024.

With an extensive performance history alongside renowned local and international artists, Lumanyano continues to push creative boundaries. Whether on stage or in the studio, he remains a dynamic and collaborative force in the global music scene, dedicated to innovation and artistic growth.

Released in 2025, iThemba Elitsha (A New Hope) his debut solo album and third as a bandleader, is a rich and unique sonic tapestry that inspires infinite hope for a better future. In a world riddled with existential angst, contradictions, and uncertainty, this musical offering serves as a welcome tonic. Through this project, Lumanyano captures the complexity of his personal journey while reflecting on a world that is constantly changing amidst an unrelenting search for meaning and healing.

ARTISTS WORKED WITH INCLUDE:

Larry Klien, Sona Jobarteh, Terry Lyne Carrington, Kris Davis, Freshly Ground, Mandisi Dyantyis, Maquis Hill, Elena Pinderhughes, Sibongile Khumalo, McCoy Mrubata, Judith Sephuma, Ruth Tafebe, Luciano, Eric Donaldson, Half pint, Everton Blender, Nando Mitchelin, Gloria Bosman, Turbulance, Jah Mason, Tyron Downie, Drie Manskap, Micheal Bester, Cedric “Congo” Myton, N8N, Meta & The Cornerstones, Pam Hall, to name a few.