Hlulani Hlangwane

Hlulani Hlangwane is a South African-born jazz singer whose voice carries the soul of a classic jazz diva and the spirit of her Tsonga heritage. Hailing from Giyani, Limpopo, Hlulani’s music is a captivating fusion of rich cultural roots and contemporary jazz expression, setting her apart as a uniquely authentic voice in the South African and international jazz scenes.

Her musical journey began at just 16 years old when she enrolled at the prestigious National School of the Arts in Johannesburg to study contemporary music. It was here that her prodigious talent caught the attention of award-winning musician and vocal coach R.J. Benjamin. Recognizing her potential, he mentored her not only in vocal performance but also in music business, featuring her on his debut album Who I Am (2004).

From 2004 to 2006, Hlulani pursued a qualification in Jazz Vocals at the University of Cape Town. As the lead vocalist of the UCT Big Band under the direction of Associate Professor Mike Campbell, she graced stages across the country, including the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Standard Bank Grahamstown Festival. Around the same time, she formed her own band alongside award-winning artists such as pianist Bokani Dyer, bassist Shane Cooper, and drummer Andre Swarts, performing sold-out shows at Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre and Nassau Centre.

In 2008, Hlulani was selected as the lead vocalist for the prestigious Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band, conducted by pianist and composer Neil Gonsalves. This opportunity catapulted her onto stages with some of the greats, including Judith Sephuma, Jimmy Dludlu, Hugh Masekela, and international R&B legend Joe.

Following a successful tour in Vietnam from 2009 to 2010, Hlulani returned to South Africa and continued performing with jazz heavyweights such as Herbie Tsoaeli, Ayanda Sikade, Lucas Senyatso, Mlungisi Gegana, and Nduduzo Makhathini. Her musical path led her to meet Themba Mkhize—one of South Africa’s most influential musicians—who became a mentor and helped expand her international footprint. Through this connection, she performed with the SWR Big Band in Germany, sharing the stage with artists like Siya Makuzeni and the vocal group iComplete.

In July 2024, Hlulani released her long-anticipated 5-track EP Seasons, produced by Bokani Dyer. The project showcases her signature sound—an elegant blend of soulful jazz and traditional Tsonga rhythms—underscoring her ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

With a voice that embodies emotion, strength, and grace, Hlulani Hlangwane is more than just a singer—she is a storyteller and cultural ambassador. As she continues to enchant audiences around the world, her music serves as a powerful celebration of identity, heritage, and the transformative power of jazz.