Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian

Phuzekhemisi

latest news & developments
One of the genre’s most popular artists, Phuzekhemisi crafted the enduring hit, Imbizo, with his late brother Khethani
BHAMBATHA

Maskandi hit list: Sandile Ngidi selects ten of the genre’s heavy hitters

A genre of distinctive, regional styles, Sandile Ngidi selects a list of some of its most influential players

  • Sandile Ngidi
1 min read
Rich history, vital sounds: Among the best known maskandi musicians are Phuzekhemisi, who is regarded as king of the genre. Photo: Rogan Ward
IZINGANE ZOMA

Tune in to the wails of Maskandi

The genre grew out of Southern Africa’s past and reflects our present and our desired future

  • Mbe Mbhele
5 min read
Renaissance man: Guitarist Manqobizizwe Ncala is reconfiguring maskandi while sticking to its traditional ideals.
MASKANDI

Talking tough: Maskandi turns into a blood sport

Although maskandi has always been about espousing personal and regional pride, increasing violence mars its founding tenets

  • Kwanele Sosibo
7 min read
An estimated 150 South Africans are fighting for the Israel Defence Forces in the current Gaza conflict.
PHUZEKHEMISI

Zadie Smith, Phuzekhemisi and ‘Dear White People’ — on our Lists this week

The Lists are compiled by Friday editor Milisuthando Bongela and arts writer Kwanele Sosibo

  • Arts Desk
2 min read
Wired for sound: Spoek Mathambo on his tour to discover indigenous African sounds.
INDIGENOUS AFRICAN MUSIC

Future sounds mine the past

Spoek Mathambo explores the ancient music of the San and gets hip to maskandi for his latest project.

  • Sandiso Ngubane
4 min read