Soul Brothers

Perennial mbaqanga hit-makers who have recorded over 30 albums, selling millions since their formation in 1974. The group have remained the most successful proponents of the mbaqanga sound which has long dominated South African urban music. Formed in KwaZulu Natal in the mid-1970s, the band was built around the rhythm section of bassist Zenzele "Zakes" Mchunu, drummer David Masondo, and guitarist Tuza Mthethwa who first played together in the Groovy Boys in Kwazulu Natal, and later the Young Brothers. After moving to Johannesburg, keyboardist Moses Ngwenya joined to create the Soul Brothers, and David Masondo made the move from drums to lead vocals.

The combination of Masondo’s quavering soprano voice and Ngwenya’s percussive Hammond organ playing gave the Soul Brothers a unique and instantly recognizable sound. This core rhythm section was typically augmented with a brass section, guitars, vocal harmonies and dancers. The Soul Brothers visited UK and Europe in 1990 on their first international tour. They also operate their own successful recording, publishing and entertainment companies. Their most recent albums are Isiphithiphithi (2012) and Vika (2013).