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Bringing a slightly edgier but deeply soulful harmony to the late-afternoon line-up.
For more than two decades, Sunday afternoons in South Africa belonged to one man: Eddie Zondi. Through his iconic radio show on Metro FM, Zondi did not just play music; he curated the soundtrack for love, heartbreak, healing, and nostalgia. His signature selection of rhythm and blues, classic soul, and local gems earned him the title of the definitive king of romantic ballads.
The late , a legendary Metro FM DJ known as "The Lover Boy," curated a highly popular series of CD compilations and radio sessions that remain a staple of South African R&B and Soul culture. Since the original physical CDs (Volumes 1 through 5) are largely out of print, most fans now access these "mixtapes" through digital archives and curated streaming playlists. How to Download and Listen
A short, contemplative piano piece that feels like an after‑thought diary entry. It serves as a gentle wind‑down, giving listeners a moment to breathe after the emotional roller‑coaster.
For 18 years at Metro FM, Eddie Zondi reigned as the ultimate compiler of soulful hits. His untimely passing in June 2014 shocked the nation, especially since his final broadcast ended hauntingly with Teddy Pendergrass’s "This is the Last Time". Even years later, his legacy lives on through his daughter, Lula Odiba, and the countless fans who still tune into soul sessions inspired by his "velvety voice". Zondi's Romantic Ballads - Vol.2 - playlist by CK - Spotify
Here, Eddie leans into a classic soul vibe—think Marvin Gaye meets Sam Smith. A warm, analog‑style bass line and brushed drums give the track a vintage texture, while a subtle vinyl crackle (yes, that’s a deliberate effect) adds nostalgic charm. The bridge drops the instrumentation entirely, leaving only Eddie’s falsetto whispering “Spin me round, let the record play our story.”
Eddie Zondi possessed a rare gift for connection. His deep, soothing voice, combined with an unparalleled ear for R&B, turned Romantic Ballads into the most popular radio show of its kind in South Africa. He understood the power of a perfect transition, blending timeless American R&B with local soul.