Bantu Records A Journey Through Sound, Culture, and Collaboration

Bantu Records began as a dream, a vision to celebrate and showcase the richness of South African and Black music. It all started in the heart of Braamfontein, where we opened our doors to vinyl lovers, collectors, and music enthusiasts. It wasn’t just about selling records it was about creating a space where music culture could thrive, where stories could be shared, and where we could be a part of something bigger.

In our early days, we grew from a small space with an even bigger dream. Our Braamfontein location became an instant hub, bringing together like-minded individuals who shared a passion for vinyl and a love for South African sounds. The city’s energy resonated with us, but we knew that there was more to be done, more people to connect with, and more music to discover. This led us to a pop-up store inside Nike at the Keyes Art Mile, a move that allowed us to reach an even wider audience. It was an exciting chapter that aligned the brand with the culture of streetwear, art, and music. The collaboration felt natural, bringing together the worlds of fashion and music, creating an atmosphere where culture was constantly evolving.

Fast forward to today, and Bantu Records has found its home in Parktown North at Neighbourhood. Now, we’re not just a vinyl store—we’re Johannesburg’s first Black vinyl bar. The space is more than just a store; it’s an experience. It’s a place to sit back, relax, and let the music take over. We’ve created a comfortable, inviting space where you can enjoy a drink, browse through an extensive selection of records, and engage in conversations about the artists, the culture, and the music that defines us.

But it’s not just about the physical space. We’ve built strong collaborations with some of the most exciting artists in the industry. For example, we had the privilege of working with The Brother Moves On on their vinyl release of $/He Who Feeds You…Owns You. This was a milestone not only for us but for the music scene as well, as it showcased the deep connection between Bantu Records and the local artist community. Similarly, we were honored to support Morena Leraba and the release of his Fela Sa Ha Mojela vinyl, further cementing our position as a key player in the South African music scene.

Our journey has also brought us face to face with some incredible guest appearances. We’ve hosted the likes of Hotsix Mabusa, Mama Shadow Twala, Kaidi Tatham, and even legends like Mobb Deep and Banda Banda. These artists and their stories are what continue to inspire and fuel our passion for creating a space that not only sells records but celebrates the culture behind them. We've also been lucky enough to collaborate with  House of Vans South Africa, Reebok, and Boiler Room, further amplifying the role Bantu Records plays in the global music scene.

From Braamfontein to Nike’s pop-up store at Keyes Art Mile, and now to Parktown North, Bantu Records has always been more than a store. It's a movement a place that honors the rich legacy of Black and South African music while shaping the future of vinyl culture in Johannesburg. So, whether you’re a seasoned vinyl collector, a casual listener, or someone who just loves the energy of live music, Bantu Records is here for you. Come through, pick up a record, grab a drink, and join the conversation.