By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The legendary Mbaqanga group Soul Brothers is celebrating 48 years in the music industry, marking a remarkable journey filled with notable milestones.
From performing at the iconic Sydney Opera House in Australia to accompanying former South African presidents Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk, the group has left an indelible mark on the music scene.
Since the inception of the South African Music Awards, Soul Brothers dominated the Best Mbaqanga Award category for over 15 consecutive years, a testament to their enduring popularity and influence in the genre.
Their legacy was further cemented when they received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Founded by David Masondo, Tuza Mthethwa, Zenzele Mchunu, American Zulu, and Moses Ngwenya, the Soul Brothers have faced both triumphs and tragedies over their extensive career.
Ngwenya, the sole surviving founding member, continues to lead the group, preserving their rich heritage while adapting to contemporary musical trends.
In recognition of his contributions, Ngwenya was conferred an honorary doctorate in philosophy by the University of South Africa in 2020.
The journey has not been without heartbreak, the group has lost many members due to car accidents, violence, and natural causes. Yet, their loyal supporters have consistently encouraged them to persevere through these hardships.
In an interview with Sunday World, Ngwenya expressed how mbaqanga music remains integral to the Soul Brothers’ identity.
“We incorporate new sounds, but we still maintain our original style of playing music. We also ensure that we interact with people to understand what they want our lyrics speak to the soul of every ordinary person in society,” he shared.
To commemorate their 48th anniversary, Soul Brothers will host a special celebration at the Dumisani Masilela Theatre in Germiston on December 7, sponsored by the National Arts Council.
The event will feature a partnership with the City of Ekurhuleni and will include performances from popular musician Gatsheni.
Due to overwhelming demand, the group will extend their anniversary tour to reach fans in various locations. Subsequent performances are scheduled for December 13 at Howick Town Hall, December 14 at Imbizo Hall in Empangeni, and December 15 in Umtubatuba.
The Soul Brothers’ unwavering dedication to their craft and the legacy they continue to build speaks volumes of their remarkable 48-year journey in the music industry.