Iman Hanzo Drops “Phakama” Before His New Festival Launch

Iman Hanzo, the Hamburg-based DJ and producer known for his emotionally rich soundscapes, makes an inspiring debut on Warner Music with his new single “Phakama.” Released on June 27, 2025, the track is a soulful Afro-deep-house anthem that blends hypnotic grooves with spiritual depth and cultural reverence.

“Phakama”—which means “rise” in Zulu—is more than a dance track. It’s a meditative call to growth, healing, and inner strength. Drawing from his personal spiritual journey through regions like Egypt, Iceland, and China, Hanzo channels his experiences into sound. The result is a track that’s rhythmically powerful and deeply uplifting, offering listeners a moment of both movement and reflection.

Driven by rich African vocal chants and atmospheric percussion, “Phakama” captures the essence of Hanzo’s musical philosophy: to create music that moves the body while resonating with the heart. It’s a track that fits effortlessly into summer playlists yet carries enough emotional weight to leave a lasting impression well beyond the dancefloor.

The single’s release also signals a major milestone for Iman Hanzo—not only is it his first track on Warner Music, but it arrives just ahead of his inaugural music festival, The Triangle, taking place July 12 in Hamburg. Featuring artists like Claptone, Jaden Bojsen, WITH U, and Hanzo himself, the event promises to be a defining moment in his career and a celebration of cross-cultural electronic music.

After making waves with his 2024 debut album Clouds, Iman Hanzo enters a new chapter with “Phakama”—one that positions him as a leading figure in global Afro and melodic house. His unique sound, rooted in both emotional storytelling and spiritual resonance, sets him apart in a genre that’s rapidly evolving.