ZYG 808
Latest News on ZYG 808:
Photos: Forgotten Roots Festival Ignites Pleasant Street With Performances from Local Artists (Jul 22, 2025)
The ZYG 808 To Headline FORGOTTEN ROOTS FESTIVAL in New Bedford (Jul 3, 2025)
Cape Cod's Juneteenth Observances Set For This Week (Jun 16, 2025)
Photos: Forgotten Roots Festival Ignites Pleasant Street With Performances from Local Artists (Jul 22, 2025)
The ZYG 808 To Headline FORGOTTEN ROOTS FESTIVAL in New Bedford (Jul 3, 2025)
Cape Cod's Juneteenth Observances Set For This Week (Jun 16, 2025)
BIO
The ZYG 808 is an American musician, composer, and performer in the genres of hip-hop, jazz, and soul. Playing his first studio session as a percussionist at the age of 7 and headlining the Boston Jazz Fest at age 11 as a jazz drummer, the ZYG 808 began rapping at age 13, when he also joined the multi- Grammy nominated band, The GroovaLottos as a percussionist. That same summer he began busking on Cape Cod, playing the drums and rapping at the same time. With his earning he started a record label, Soul Poets Records and released a mixtape, "At The Party" that earned2Grammy nominations.
As the drummer for The GroovaLottos as well as his own work as a hip-hop artist, The ZYG 808 performs regularly throughout the east coast. He is a staff engineer and producer at Polyphonic Studios in Bourne, MA and is pursuing a degree in Music Composition & Media Production. His plans are to continue making music as well as produce film and television projects.
Photos
News
Photos: Forgotten Roots Festival Ignites Pleasant Street With Performances from Local Artists
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 22, 2025
On July 19, 2025, the Forgotten Roots Festival transformed the storefront windows of Interwoven Artist Studio at 634 Pleasant Street, New Bedford, into an intimate and electrifying stage celebrating music, culture, and community. Check out photos of the event.
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 22, 2025
On July 19, 2025, the Forgotten Roots Festival transformed the storefront windows of Interwoven Artist Studio at 634 Pleasant Street, New Bedford, into an intimate and electrifying stage celebrating music, culture, and community. Check out photos of the event.
The ZYG 808 To Headline FORGOTTEN ROOTS FESTIVAL in New Bedford
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 3, 2025
On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the FORGOTTEN ROOTS FESTIVAL will bring an evening of acoustic music and storytelling to Interwoven Artist Studio in New Bedford, MA.
by A.A. Cristi - Jul 3, 2025
On Saturday, July 19, 2025, the FORGOTTEN ROOTS FESTIVAL will bring an evening of acoustic music and storytelling to Interwoven Artist Studio in New Bedford, MA.
Cape Cod's Juneteenth Observances Set For This Week
by Stephi Wild - Jun 16, 2025
Cape Cod's Juneteenth celebrations will resonate with the rhythms of freedom, resistance, and solidarity as two celebrated Wampanoag artists-Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor and The ZYG 808-headline a pair of events.
by Stephi Wild - Jun 16, 2025
Cape Cod's Juneteenth celebrations will resonate with the rhythms of freedom, resistance, and solidarity as two celebrated Wampanoag artists-Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor and The ZYG 808-headline a pair of events.
Katie Castagno Brings Unique Acoustic Sound to Forgotten Roots Festival, New Bedford
by Stephi Wild - Jun 16, 2025
Music lovers and community supporters alike won't want to miss the upcoming Forgotten Roots Festival, happening at the Interwoven Artist Studio. Learn more here!
by Stephi Wild - Jun 16, 2025
Music lovers and community supporters alike won't want to miss the upcoming Forgotten Roots Festival, happening at the Interwoven Artist Studio. Learn more here!
ZYG 808 Comes to NB Roots & Branches 'Fringe' Festival
by Stephi Wild - May 29, 2025
The ZYG 808's acoustic Rock-Hop and Afrobeat set will take center stage at the NB Roots & Branches 'Fringe' Festival in July at Interwoven Art Studio.
by Stephi Wild - May 29, 2025
The ZYG 808's acoustic Rock-Hop and Afrobeat set will take center stage at the NB Roots & Branches 'Fringe' Festival in July at Interwoven Art Studio.
The THUMP & SOUL SESSION is Coming to New Bedford, Celebrating Underground Dance Genres
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 21, 2024
Experience an immersive sonic journey with the THUMP & SOUL SESSION, a monthly event celebrating diverse underground dance genres. Learn how to purchase tickets.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 21, 2024
Experience an immersive sonic journey with the THUMP & SOUL SESSION, a monthly event celebrating diverse underground dance genres. Learn how to purchase tickets.
The THUMP & SOUL SESSION to be Presented at Gallery X in November
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 10, 2023
Experience the revival of Gallery X with The THUMP & SOUL SESSION on November 25th. DJ The ZYG 808 will spin a mix of House music, Afrobeats, Rare Groove, Dancehall, and EDM. Monthly event starting January 2024.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 10, 2023
Experience the revival of Gallery X with The THUMP & SOUL SESSION on November 25th. DJ The ZYG 808 will spin a mix of House music, Afrobeats, Rare Groove, Dancehall, and EDM. Monthly event starting January 2024.
WAMPTRONICA Brings A Dance Party Vibe To Cotuit
by Stephi Wild - Oct 26, 2023
Among the offerings at the November 4th presentation of the Poly-Groove Records Revue, at Cotuit Center for the Arts will be WAMPTRONICA, an electronic dance music group, comprised of Wampanoag and other native musical creatives; blending traditional elements of music of the First Nation people with House, jazz, breakbeats, and funk.
by Stephi Wild - Oct 26, 2023
Among the offerings at the November 4th presentation of the Poly-Groove Records Revue, at Cotuit Center for the Arts will be WAMPTRONICA, an electronic dance music group, comprised of Wampanoag and other native musical creatives; blending traditional elements of music of the First Nation people with House, jazz, breakbeats, and funk.
Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor Releases 'Always Right There' From Forthcoming Album THUNDERCHILD
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 6, 2023
Discover Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor's latest single, 'Always Right There,' from his upcoming album 'Thunderchild.' Explore the craft of songwriting and groove to the infectious love song that captures the attention of both men and women. Learn about Mwalim's musical journey and his family's influential roots from the Brill Building.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 6, 2023
Discover Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor's latest single, 'Always Right There,' from his upcoming album 'Thunderchild.' Explore the craft of songwriting and groove to the infectious love song that captures the attention of both men and women. Learn about Mwalim's musical journey and his family's influential roots from the Brill Building.
A Son Directs His Father In A PARTY IN THE CROSSROADS At Cotuit Center for the Arts This April
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 28, 2023
When Mwalim first performed 'A Party at the Crossroads' as a performance piece in 1996 at the Falmouth Public Library for Black History Month, with a subsequent production in Boston through New African Company, little did he know that the show would become a touring piece that took him around the country to theaters, venues and festivals.
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 28, 2023
When Mwalim first performed 'A Party at the Crossroads' as a performance piece in 1996 at the Falmouth Public Library for Black History Month, with a subsequent production in Boston through New African Company, little did he know that the show would become a touring piece that took him around the country to theaters, venues and festivals.
Cotuit Center for the Arts to Present A PARTY AT THE CROSSROADS in April
by Blair Ingenthron - Mar 26, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends), directed by The ZYG 808. The show will be running at Cotuit Center for the Arts in the Vivian and Morton Sigel Black Box theater from April 7 - 23.
by Blair Ingenthron - Mar 26, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends), directed by The ZYG 808. The show will be running at Cotuit Center for the Arts in the Vivian and Morton Sigel Black Box theater from April 7 - 23.
Mwalim Takes Us To A PARTY AT THE CROSSROADS On Cape Cod
Next Month
by Stephi Wild - Mar 13, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends) directed by The ZYG 808. The show will be running at the Cotuit Center for the Arts Black Box theater, April 7 - 23.
by Stephi Wild - Mar 13, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends) directed by The ZYG 808. The show will be running at the Cotuit Center for the Arts Black Box theater, April 7 - 23.
A PARTY AT THE CROSSROADS to Play The Black Box Theater in April
by Blair Ingenthron - Mar 11, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends), directed by The ZYG 808. The show will run at Cotuit Center for the Arts in the Vivian and Morton Sigel Black Box theater from April 6 - 23, with Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30pm and Sunday shows at 2pm.
by Blair Ingenthron - Mar 11, 2023
'A PARTY at the CROSSROADS: A Post-Modernist's Cabaret' is a work of adult-oriented storytelling theater with original soul, blues and jazz music; written and performed by Mwalim (with a little help from his friends), directed by The ZYG 808. The show will run at Cotuit Center for the Arts in the Vivian and Morton Sigel Black Box theater from April 6 - 23, with Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30pm and Sunday shows at 2pm.
The GroovaLottos Return With MAMA'S HAMPER - Pure Phunk
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 20, 2022
If your band had a Saturday morning cartoon, what would the theme song be? If you were present for a bar-fight, what would be playing in the background? Can you describe your band's show in six words? How do you describe your relationship with your soulmate?
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 20, 2022
If your band had a Saturday morning cartoon, what would the theme song be? If you were present for a bar-fight, what would be playing in the background? Can you describe your band's show in six words? How do you describe your relationship with your soulmate?
Polyphonic Studios Launches New Label
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 3, 2022
Polyphonic Studios has announced the launch of Polyphonic Studios Records (PSR), an imprint and home-base for 'Thump & Soul', a genre-bending sound cultivated by the songwriters, producers, and artists affiliated with the studio; and being presented to receptive audiences throughout the Southern New England region.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Feb 3, 2022
Polyphonic Studios has announced the launch of Polyphonic Studios Records (PSR), an imprint and home-base for 'Thump & Soul', a genre-bending sound cultivated by the songwriters, producers, and artists affiliated with the studio; and being presented to receptive audiences throughout the Southern New England region.
George's to Host Thump & Soul Thursdays
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 20, 2022
Thump & Soul is offering The MIXER offering the best of Afrobeats, House, Nu-Jazz, and Rare Groove spun by The Maestro ZYG 808 on 1st, 2nd, and 4th Thursdays and THIRD THURSDAYS SUPPER CLUB, offering an all-you-can-eat buffet and live soul and jazz by The GroovaLottos.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 20, 2022
Thump & Soul is offering The MIXER offering the best of Afrobeats, House, Nu-Jazz, and Rare Groove spun by The Maestro ZYG 808 on 1st, 2nd, and 4th Thursdays and THIRD THURSDAYS SUPPER CLUB, offering an all-you-can-eat buffet and live soul and jazz by The GroovaLottos.
THUMP & SOUL Clap Now A Weekly Streaming Dance Party & Mix Show
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 12, 2022
Hosted and DJed by The ZYG 808, The THUMP & SOUL Clap features mixes of the best, indie soul, hip-hop, Afrobeat, house, rare groove, and edm artists and bands in the region as well as a few popular favorites and classic thrown in.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 12, 2022
Hosted and DJed by The ZYG 808, The THUMP & SOUL Clap features mixes of the best, indie soul, hip-hop, Afrobeat, house, rare groove, and edm artists and bands in the region as well as a few popular favorites and classic thrown in.
MWALIM to Release PARADISE Over PEACE
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 7, 2021
Multi-disciplinary artist, MWALIM DaPhunkee Professor, shifts from his role as playwright and spokenword artist, back into musician/composer/singer/producer with the release of 'PARADISE over PEACE' a jazzy-soul-pop kinda groove featuring afro-cuban jazz drumming by The ZYG 808.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 7, 2021
Multi-disciplinary artist, MWALIM DaPhunkee Professor, shifts from his role as playwright and spokenword artist, back into musician/composer/singer/producer with the release of 'PARADISE over PEACE' a jazzy-soul-pop kinda groove featuring afro-cuban jazz drumming by The ZYG 808.
The GroovaLottos to Perform at Payomet Arts Center
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 7, 2021
Multi-Grammy nominated ensemble, The GroovaLottos will bring their brand of soul-funk to the Payomet Arts Center on June 19th, at 7pm. Tickets are $20 general and $17 for members.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jun 7, 2021
Multi-Grammy nominated ensemble, The GroovaLottos will bring their brand of soul-funk to the Payomet Arts Center on June 19th, at 7pm. Tickets are $20 general and $17 for members.
The ZYG 808 Releases 'Real Emcees' Single
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 15, 2021
REAL EMCEES is the latest single from The ZYG 808's forthcoming mixtape, 'BEAT LOUNGE NOTES', joining 'Glory of History' and 'PIONEERS' as the hip-hop branch of the Southcoast Thump & Soul movement gains momentum.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 15, 2021
REAL EMCEES is the latest single from The ZYG 808's forthcoming mixtape, 'BEAT LOUNGE NOTES', joining 'Glory of History' and 'PIONEERS' as the hip-hop branch of the Southcoast Thump & Soul movement gains momentum.
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