The Story Behind Umlando - Founder of Bantu Records

Umlando, the force behind Bantu Records, a record store that's become a staple in Johannesburg’s vinyl scene. If you’ve ever walked into the store or visited the website, you’ll immediately sense that there's something special about it. It's not just the music that draws you in, but the vibe a celebration of culture, legacy, and a unique journey that Umlando is on.

Born and raised in the East of Johannesburg, Umlando’s roots run deep in the vibrant, diverse musical landscape of the area. The East Rand, where she grew up,  Umlando, the East Rand wasn’t just home it was a source of musical inspiration. The soulful sounds of jazz legends and the pulse of the township’s music scene shaped her love for music from an early age.

Her journey with vinyl began even earlier, though. At just 11 years old, Umlando’s introduction to vinyl came through her grandfather, a renowned figure in the local jazz scene. In the 1980s, her grandfather ran a jazz club bar where his exceptional record collection was the heart and soul of the space. It was here that Umlando learned the magic of vinyl, how each record told a story and how it could transport people to different times and places. Her grandfather’s love for jazz, and his impeccable selection of records, was an inspiration that left a lasting impression on Umlando, shaping her deep connection to music.

From those early days, Umlando found herself drawn to the unique warmth and authenticity that only vinyl could offer. It wasn’t just about playing the records, it was about the experience. Each crackle and pop on the needle brought something special to the music, and it was an experience she would carry with her for the rest of her life.

Growing up, music was always around. From the soulful rhythms of Black South African artists to the global beats that made their way into her world, music became a vehicle for expression and connection. As a Black woman, Umlando always felt that music was a powerful tool for telling stories that often went untold stories that were hers, that were our collective history, and that deserved to be celebrated.

But starting a record store wasn’t always on the cards. Like many people, she had dreams, and her journey to Bantu Records wasn’t linear. It came out of a deep love for music and a desire to create a space that truly reflected South Africa's musical roots. Umlando recognized a gap in the market—there weren’t enough spaces that catered to Black music in the way it deserved to be represented. South African music, both past and present, had so much to offer, and it was time to shine a light on it.

In 2020, Bantu Records came to life. The name “Bantu” wasn’t a coincidence. It’s a nod to the Bantu people, an ethnic group in Southern Africa, and a tribute to the cultural heritage of the continent. Umlando’s vision was clear: to build a store that was more than just a retail space. Bantu Records would be a hub for music lovers, collectors, and anyone who wanted to experience the magic of vinyl especially Black vinyl.

What makes Umlando’s journey unique isn’t just the fact that she’s a Black woman running a record store. It’s that she’s doing it with intention, authenticity, and an unyielding focus on honoring the legacy of Black and South African music. As a Black woman, she understands the significance of creating a platform where underrepresented artists, genres, and stories are amplified. Bantu Records doesn’t just stock records it tells the stories of Black excellence in music, from jazz legends like Hugh Masekela, to contemporary artists who are reshaping the sound of South Africa.

But it’s not just about selling records. Umlando’s vision for Bantu Records goes beyond commerce. It’s about building community. It’s about preserving history while pushing boundaries. In a world where streaming has largely taken over, Bantu Records represents a return to the tangible, the physical connection to music. Vinyl is more than just a format; it’s an experience. And Umlando wants everyone who walks through the doors or visits the website to feel that experience.

What makes Bantu Records truly stand out is its approach to inclusivity. Umlando isn’t interested in a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you're an old-school vinyl enthusiast or a newcomer, Bantu Records offers a space for everyone. The atmosphere is welcoming, the selection is diverse, and the stories behind the music are shared with pride.

In a time when many record stores are closing down, Bantu Records thrives. It's because Umlando isn’t just selling vinyl she’s selling culture, history, and passion. The music that fills the store isn’t just background noise; it’s a soundtrack to a greater conversation about identity, legacy, and the power of Black music.

So, the next time you pop into Bantu Records, or browse their online shop, take a moment to appreciate what it stands for. It’s more than a business it’s a cultural revolution led by a Black woman who’s using her platform to keep the heartbeat of South African and Black music alive.

That's Umlando’s story, and it’s one worth celebrating.