PAAX, an Argentinian DJ and producer duo known for blending deep tech, house, and multicultural influences, has recently collaborated with Sakhe The Conqueror on their Afro House-inspired track “SELA.” This release, driven by a partnership with the nonprofit organization Bridges For Music, highlights the cultural and social dimensions of their work. PAAX is renowned for creating grooves that incorporate organic and exotic sounds, while Sakhe, a South African vocalist, infuses the track with powerful isiXhosa vocals.
Bridges For Music, which empowers young talent from underserved communities, played a pivotal role in bringing this collaboration to life. The proceeds from “SELA” will be donated to the organization, furthering their mission of equipping creatives with the tools to thrive in the music industry.
The track is a perfect blend of South American and African influences, showcasing PAAX’s experimental approach alongside the raw authenticity of Sakhe’s voice. Cuban guitarist Emilio Campos Rojas also contributed, adding a rich, cross-cultural texture to the production. This project, alongside a club remix by Jean Claude Ades, exemplifies how music can bridge communities and deliver a message of healing and connection.
With the single out now, we caught up with PAAX to discuss why this was such an important project for them.
How did PAAX approach the challenge of blending their deep tech and house sound with Sakhe The Conqueror’s Afro-soul and house vocals in “SELA”?
Since the beginnings of PAAX, we have worked with musical fusion. We have produced Deep House, Tech, and progressive music. Currently, this new Afro House is closely linked to those styles, but where it really stands out is when the human element comes in—specifically, the unique voice of Sakhe The Conqueror. It’s a highly motivating challenge. We really enjoyed the creative process of this track.
What role did Bridges For Music play in the collaboration, and how do you feel this project highlights their work with underserved communities in Cape Town?
Bridges For Music was the perfect link between the artists from the academy and us, making it possible to carry out this musical project on both sides. We know the work they do and what it entails. We’re happy to support emerging artists on our side; many have sent us wonderful material that you will hear in the near future… (spoiler alert) hahahaha.
How did the partnership with Scorpios Music influence the direction and sound of “SELA”? What does it mean to you to be part of this label’s culturally diverse mission?
Scorpios Music plays an important role in the making of an album. Their support and clear vision of what goes into creating an album—concept, cost, creativity, and many more factors—are very important. In this case, Scorpios Music always respects that creative process, giving us the space to discuss everything and the time it takes to finalize an album. For us, it’s very important to be part of a label that gives us creative freedom and understands the direction we want to take.
PAAX is known for incorporating multicultural influences and exotic instruments into their music. How did collaborating with Sakhe and Cuban guitarist Emilio Campos Rojas further expand this approach on “SELA”?
In fact, “SELA” had many versions with different instruments and musicians, but none felt complete… until Emilio captivated us with his guitar work, which perfectly harmonized with her vocals, providing the final touch we had been missing.
Can you describe the creative process behind the fusion of isiXhosa vocals with the global sounds of house and tech music? How did both artists maintain the authenticity of their individual styles while creating something new?
For the creation of “SELA,” we initially had a version that was much more house, with a deeper bass and mainstream structure, including a break. But when we incorporated Sakhe’s vocals, we realized it deserved something deeper and more musical, something that would resonate more emotionally with listeners. So, we started experimenting with different alternatives until Emilio hit the mark with those Latin guitars, which blended perfectly with the Afro composition. Both artists, without following a strict formula, are free to interpret and create, and the result of that freedom is evident in this album.
“SELA” is said to be a message of healing through music. How did PAAX and Sakhe translate this concept sonically, and what do you hope listeners will take away from the track?
When Sakhe The Conqueror sings “SELA,” she refers to herself, wanting people to immerse themselves in her sound and be healed through her music. She’s essentially saying, “Drink from this water,” with the water being herself, offering the source of life.
How important is it for PAAX to be involved in projects with a social cause, such as Bridges For Music? How do you see your role as artists in contributing to social change?
One of life’s pillars is to help and contribute, whether in simple or complex ways. Artists generally try to help in one way or another. As a community, we should support each other to progress and work toward greater equality. Bridges For Music is doing an amazing job, and it touches us deeply because they’re using something as beautiful as music and creativity to make a difference.
Jean Claude Ades provided a remix of “SELA” aimed at the club scene. How does his version differ from the original, and how do you feel it captures the energy of the song in a club setting?
Jean Claude’s remix is very well done, with a different tonality and a more current groove. His version fits perfectly with the original, as it transitions from Afro-Latin to Afro-club while maintaining the warmth, spirit, and feeling of the track.
How did working with an artist from Cape Town, such as Sakhe, challenge or change the way PAAX approached music production and collaboration in a cross-cultural context?
Working with Sakhe was really wonderful, deep, and above all, fast and professional. Our musical concept is essentially a constant fusion—many even call us “multicultural groovers” because we are always drawing from different cultures and blending everything together.
Looking beyond “SELA,” what future projects or collaborations can we expect from PAAX, particularly in terms of continuing to explore cross-cultural and socially conscious music-making?
Particularly with Bridges For Music, there are more releases to come—this is just the beginning of a beautiful relationship. As for more collaborations, we are constantly working with musicians and artists from around the world, as our music is always a fusion of cultures.
Sela feat. Sakhe The Conqueror is out now on Scorpios Music
https://soundcloud.com/paaxtulum
https://www.instagram.com/paaxtulum
https://www.instagram.com/sakhe_the_conqueror/
