Zolya

Zolya, formerly known as Z The Freshman, is a Bern-based artist and musician whose journey has always been built on consistency. Born as Yannis Zola Maviaki, he developed a passion for music at an early age, drawing inspiration from gospel music, vocal harmonies and chants long before discovering rap. As his love for rhythm and wordplay grew, rap naturally became another element through which he could express himself.

In 2019, he officially released his debut mixtape, Tripolar, while performing at different events and slowly building a name for himself within the Swiss music scene. Over the years, the Congolese-Swiss artist developed a sound of his own, blending elements of R&B, pop, gospel and rap into a style that feels very true to himself. While his sound continued to evolve, the dedication behind it remained unchanged.

Throughout his career, one thing stayed constant: a commitment to growth. Rather than limiting himself to a single genre or artistic identity, Zolya continuously explored new sounds, ideas and ways of expressing himself. Each release became part of a larger creative process. One shaped by curiosity, discipline and an unwavering desire to improve. For him, consistency was never about staying the same, but about showing up, creating and evolving year after year.

At the end of 2025, he performed The Last Dance, his final show under the name Z The Freshman, celebrating the release of his latest project, Amuse Bouche. More than a farewell concert, the event marked the conclusion of an important chapter and the beginning of a new one. It was not only a show, but a gathering of friends, family and supporters who had accompanied him throughout his journey. A celebration of everything that had been built over the years.

Today, Yannis is focused on redefining himself as an artist, refining his vision and expanding his creative horizons. Alongside his work as a musician, he is developing his craft as a DJ, exploring music from a different perspective and evolving his understanding of sound, energy and audience connection. For him, DJ'ing is not a departure from his artistic path but a continuation of it. Another opportunity to learn, experiment and grow.

While names, sounds and chapters may change, the foundation remains the same. His dedication to music, creativity and self-development has never wavered. The story of Z The Freshman may have reached its final page, but for Yannis Zola Maviaki, a new chapter is only just beginning.

Built on consistency.