Zola Burse had his real start in music in 1972 at which time he was involved with STAX Records. As time progressed, he became more involved with music production, stage coordination, and artist tour management. In 1982, he began to do stage coordination for the Grammies, American Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards and various other TV productions through 1990.  Through the involvement in these productions, Zola worked with almost every artist performing in these events.

From 1985 to 1995, Zola was coordinator for BRE conference.   In 1984, he became the Production and Tour Manager for Reggae Sunsplash.  He worked for Reggae Sunsplash Jamaica from 1984 to 1992, and until 1997, he was operating as the Production Manager for Reggae Sunsplash around the world. In 1997, Zola had the opportunity to serve as Production Manager for JAMPRO at MIDEM the night that Jamaica presented to the world the best music that they had to offer.