Nzondi | Ace Antonio-Hall | Author | Musician (Audio)

The Kino Isaac Podcast

Saturday November 30th 2024 I was joined by the incredibly talented Nzondi (Ace Antonio-Hall), an author, musician, and storyteller who blends the world of dark emotions, storytelling, and raw rock energy. Named after King Acemandese from Kemet, Africa, Nzondi shares his powerful journey from the streets of Queens, New York, to becoming the first African-American to win the prestigious Bram Stoker Award in a novel category. Nzondi’s career has multiple creative realms. He’s the author behind chilling horror novels like Confessions of Sylva Slasher (2013), Oware Mosaic (2019), and Lipstick Asylum (2021), bringing together terrifying tales and raw emotion that captivate audiences worldwide. His inspiration for writing songs comes from the deep personal loss of his first wife, who tragically passed away just five days after their marriage. That heartbreak became the foundation for his music, drawing from the energy of legendary bands like Soundgarden, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, and The Stooges. Nzondi's new song, "Something's in the Dark/She's Gone", is deeply influenced by his experience with grief and loss. This dark, heavy rock anthem captures the sadness, confusion, and emotional turbulence he faced after the tragic loss of his wife. Nzondi’s life speaks to those of us who know what it feels like to battle through the storm of loss, while still craving the joys of life. Powerful storytelling, and a raw, authentic discussion, this is Nzondi.