Thandiswa Mazwai

About

Highly acclaimed singer and songwriter most illustriously recognized for pioneering the kwaito music movement, as well as the lasting contribution she has made to the music industry with her rhythmically diverse and lyrically commentative musical pieces. She has performed around the world at high-profile events including the 2010 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony, the Cannes Film Festival, and the BBC World Music Awards.  

Before Fame

She started her musical career as a member of the band Jack-Knife before becoming the lead vocalist and songwriter for Bongo Maffin. With Bongo Maffin, she performed with musical legends such as Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, and Sean Paul. Their indelible influence on South African music earned accolades including a Metro FM Music Award and a Kora All Africa Music Award.

Trivia

As a solo artist, her debut album "Zabalaza" went double platinum and won four South African Music Awards, among numerous additional honors. Her ensuing albums were also heavily praised and in 2011, she was named by The Guardian as, "South Africa's finest female contemporary singer."

Family Life

She is the daughter of Belede and Thami Mazwai. She has two sisters. They are fellow musician Nomsa Mazwai and poet Ntsiki Mazwai.

Associated With

She collaborated with Meshell Ndegeocello for several tracks on her Grammy-nominated 2007 album, "The World Has Made Me the Man of My Dreams." She has also collaborated with Hugh Masekela and duetted with Paul Simon.