Mahlaba

Charles Banda, better known by his stage name Mahlaba, is a Zimbabwean musician based in Bulawayo. He serves as the artistic director of the renowned music and dance theatre ensemble Sunduza.

Mahlaba's talents extend to composing, writing, and directing music, and he also excels as a vocal coach. He has crafted unique and unparalleled sounds in genres such as Afro-jazz, Afro-Pop, Imbube, and Traditional Folk. Influenced by notable artists like Simon Banda (his father), Jabu Khanyile, Bongiwe Mabandla, and Don Gumbo, Mahlaba rose to prominence in 2013 after receiving the stage name Mahlaba from his late legendary father, Simon 'Dr Mahlaba' Banda, a pioneer of Imbube. He was subsequently signed by the management company Matopos Music.

Mahlaba's talent and contributions have garnered recognition and accolades. He received nominations twice at the PPC Zimbabwe Music Awards (ZIMA), first in 2020 for Best Traditional Folk/Ezomdabuko and again in 2021 for Best Jazz, where he secured his first award. Additionally, he was nominated at the Bulawayo Arts Awards for Best Alternative Music.