Mbuso Khoza | Isandlwana Lecture | Religion | Spirituality | Eshowe | Newtown | Themba Mkhize

Mbuso Khoza is a South African musical visionary whose artistry transcends boundaries and inspires listeners worldwide. Born and raised in Eshowe, Zululand, Khoza's journey in music began at a young age, fueled by a deep connection to his Zulu heritage and an insatiable passion for storytelling through song. Khoza's musical odyssey reflects the rich tapestry of South African traditions, blending the soulful harmonies of Isicathamiya, the rhythmic complexities of Amahubo, and the evocative melodies of indigenous folk music. Amahubo is the mother of all the isiNguni genres: for each historical occurrence, the Zulu would compose a song to communicate their thoughts. In this way the music serves as the scroll of a nation. Khoza’s remarkable voice carries the echoes of ancestors, resonating with a timeless wisdom that transcends language and culture. A true custodian of his heritage, Khoza's lyrics are poignant reflections of life's joys, sorrows, and the enduring human spirit. His songs, delivered in his native Zulu tongue, convey universal truths that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. With each performance, Khoza invites listeners on a spiritual journey, where his powerful vocals and heartfelt compositions create an atmosphere of profound connection and healing. Mbuso Khoza's impact on the global music scene is undeniable. He has graced prestigious stages across the world, captivating audiences with his emotive performances and unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating African musical traditions. His collaborations with renowned artists and his dedication to mentoring emerging talents showcase his commitment to the evolution of African music. Beyond the stage, Khoza is a cultural ambassador and educator, tirelessly working to promote the beauty and significance of African music and heritage. His contributions extend to the realms of academia and community engagement, where he shares his knowledge and passion with the next generation of artists and cultural enthusiasts. Mbuso Khoza's music is a testament to the power of artistic expression to bridge divides and foster understanding among diverse communities. His unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing the musical treasures of South Africa enriches the global cultural tapestry and leaves an indelible mark on all who have the privilege of experiencing his artistry. As a beacon of African musical excellence, Mbuso Khoza continues to inspire, uplift, and unite people through the timeless beauty of his music. There’s probably nothing musical Mbuso Khoza can’t do. In the 24 years since the Eshowe-born vocalist jumped on that fateful bus to Joburg, he’s worked across multiple genres from the avant-garde jazz of Carlo Mombelli (on Stories), through multiple iterations of Afro-jazz, Afro-soul and Afro-pop, to the complex juxtapositions of Black Coffee’s DJ mixes (on Music is King) and much more. He’s still teaching and developing traditional amahubo sounds with the large a capella African Heritage Ensemble. And even if you’re not familiar with his work from those contexts, you’ve undoubtedly marked his thrilling voice on the soundtrack to the epic Shaka Ilembe, or noted his acting presence (albeit interrupted) as Maphalala on isiZulu telenovella Umkhoka:The Curse. Khoza’s latest release Ifa Lomkhono ( ropeadopeselect.bandcamp.com/album/ifa-lomkhono ) isn’t his debut; that was the Themba Mkhize-produced Zilindile in 2012. The Ifa Lomkhono collaboration with Nduduzo Makhathini isn’t his first with a jazz pianist either; after Mkhize came some impressive work with Mike del Ferro, and close to a year ago Khoza and Makhathini (with reedman Justin Bellairs) released the exploratory, roots-grounded Abasemkathini. Along the way, this descendant of illustrious general Ntshingwayo ka Mahole Khoza has also helmed a theatre show about the historic Zulu Wars battle of Isandlawana and earned a Masters in Arts Heritage from Wits.