Ntombee Mzolo

Ntombee Mzolo — Musician Biography

Ntombee Ngcobo-Mzolo (often written Ntombee Mzolo) is a South African maskandi singer, television presenter, actress and media personality known for blending traditional Zulu music heritage with mainstream entertainment media.

Early life & musical roots

Born 17 December 1984 in South Africa, Ntombee grew up in a deeply musical family. She is the daughter of maskandi legend Bheki Ngcobo (Ihhashi Elimhlophe) and singer Linah “Ebony” Khama, which exposed her to performance and touring from childhood.

She first entered the industry as part of the family maskandi group Amaponi, formed in 1998 alongside her siblings — a foundation that shaped her traditional African sound and stage presence.

Solo music career

After years performing in traditional music, she launched her solo career in 2010 with the album African Sexy, which featured the single “Amakhosikazi.”

Her music stays rooted in maskandi culture while presenting a modern, female-led voice in a genre historically dominated by men. She has also remained active in promoting and celebrating traditional African music through media platforms and live performances.

Television & media career

Alongside music, Ntombee became one of South Africa’s recognizable entertainment personalities:

• Presenter of SABC1 music show One

• Host of educational shows Backyard Science and Science 4 Life

• Host of documentary series Come Again?

• Presenter on Gumba Gumba and maskandi show Yash’ingoma

• Reality TV and reunion specials including The Mommy Club

Her TV work has helped bring maskandi and traditional culture to younger audiences and urban viewers.

Personal life & resilience

She married filmmaker Sizwe Mzolo in 2009.
Ntombee has openly shared her life challenges, including the loss of two children, and often speaks about faith, healing and perseverance — themes that influence both her public speaking and music.

Legacy & influence

Ntombee Mzolo represents a modern generation of artists preserving indigenous music while expanding into multimedia entertainment. By combining traditional maskandi identity with television hosting and public speaking, she has become an ambassador for African heritage music in contemporary South African pop culture.