Soul Brothers Mark 50: Mbaqanga Legends Tour South Africa

South Africa’s iconic mbaqanga group, Soul Brothers, celebrates 50 years with a nationwide tour and new album “Thath’owakho,” honouring their founders and uniting generations through timeless music (image source)

Harare — Two generations after their formation, South African mbaqanga pioneers Soul Brothers are celebrating their golden anniversary with a regional tour, paying homage to founding members and loyal fans across the border. The ensemble will perform in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban from late October, marking half a century since their inception with a special concert series and album launch.

Titled “Thath’owakho,” the celebratory album blends classic grooves with contemporary rhythms. Founding keyboardist Moses Ngwenya noted, “This record is a tribute to Zenzele Mchunu, Tuza Mthethwa, David Masondo, and America Zulu — our creative bedrock.” A CD-launch event in Mabvuku saw fans chanting lyrics to their 1975 hit “Qhawe,” underscoring the group’s enduring resonance.

At Harare’s New Lighthouse music venue, longtime supporter Nomatter Moyo exclaimed, “I’ve followed them since my father played their vinyl in the 1980s. Seeing them live is like revisiting my youth.” Moyo plans to attend the Johannesburg premiere alongside a dozen friends traveling by bus from Bulawayo.

Local promoter Farai Chikore anticipates sold-out shows:

• Johannesburg State Theatre – October 25

• Pretoria City Hall – October 27

• Durban Botanical Gardens – October 29

“Tickets flew off shelves within days,” he said. “Their cross-border appeal has only strengthened over time.”

Music historian Dr. Linda Ndlovu of Midlands State University credits the Soul Brothers with popularising mbaqanga beyond South Africa’s townships. “They bridged urban and rural audiences, blending Zulu rhythms with jazz and soul,” she explained. “Their 50-year journey reflects both cultural continuity and adaptability.”

Producer Sipho Dlamini, who worked on the new album, added, “Recording with legends taught me discipline — they rehearse tirelessly and demand sonic excellence.”

Beyond entertainment, the tour fosters regional unity. South African cultural attaché Thandi Maseko said, “The Soul Brothers embody shared heritage. Their music heals borders and showcases Southern African artistry on a global stage.” Ngwenya hopes the anniversary will inspire emerging bands. “If we can sustain this long and still innovate, younger artists can too,” he said.

Following the South Africa dates, the Soul Brothers plan to tour Zimbabwe in early 2026, performing in Bulawayo, Mutare, and Gweru. They also aim to digitise their back catalogue for streaming platforms, ensuring classic tracks reach new audiences.

As the Soul Brothers commemorate five decades of sound and solidarity, their legacy endures — proof that great music transcends time, geography, and generations.