Zinaro

Nduduzo Ngema, widely known by his stage name Zinaro, is an acclaimed Kwaito artist hailing from Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal, with formative years spent in Pongola, KZN. In the vibrant musical landscape of the 2000s, Zinaro's early performances resonated with diverse audiences, from beauty pageants to school gatherings and car washes. It was in these moments that his profound passion for music took root.
During this era, fate brought him together with fellow artist Mthera, and the duo "Zinaro no Mthera" was born. Emboldened by local mayoral support, their collaboration flourished. In 2003, they recorded their debut demo, sparking a series of electrifying performances. Amid pursuing higher education, Zinaro and Mthera serendipitously crossed paths with industry luminaries such as DJ Sox, Big Nuz, Paul Mdiniso, and others. These encounters paved the way for their first album release in 2010, a steppingstone toward their iconic Liberation Vol. 1 album, produced by Dollar & Dust. This dynamic compilation featured standout talents like Mgarimbe, Sbo Da Poet, Masheleni, Phuzekhemisi, and Thokozani Langa. Notably, one of their tracks found a home in the popular SABC 1 series "Zone 14."
A pivotal juncture arrived when Zinaro embarked on a solo venture, launching the hit single "Zulu Nae Nae," featuring DJ Nasto and Mthera. The track resonated across South African airwaves, earning placements in prominent TV shows like "Isibaya," as well as interviews and performances on programs like SABC’s "Yo-TV" and eTV’s "Sunrise."
Zinaro's artistic journey reached remarkable milestones, including sharing stages at prestigious events like the Last Dance Festival, Royal Shows, Magic Tours, Nyus’iVollume, Ugu Jazz Festival, and the Amcor Dam Festival.
His encounter with Demor Sikhosana in 2018 proved instrumental, leading to a pivotal meeting with Dharam Sewraj of Bhavani Entertainment and Investments, a creative haven for his talent. This alliance culminated in chart-topping hits such as "Incwad’encane," "Ntombenhle," "Wash’umkhukhu," "Dali Wami," and "Kumnandi ekhaya," the latter reaching No. 19 on UKhozi Fm's top 20 chart. The pinnacle of this success came with the release of Zinaro's debut album "Inzalo YeKwaito" in 2020, which notably clinched the Best Gqom Award at the South African Music Awards (SAMA) in 2021—a historic feat as the inaugural winner of the category introduced that year.
Beyond his musical prowess, Zinaro exhibits a profound commitment to philanthropy. He dedicates time to the Blossom Beauty Princess Foundation, a non-profit initiative aiding orphaned children with essential school supplies and support—a testament to his compassionate character.
Zinaro's latest single, "Sya’shelela," has already captivated music enthusiasts, earning him coveted spots on stages like the Drakensberg Extravaganza Music Festival and the Last Dance Festival. His music resonates through radio waves, particularly on UKhozi, while making appearances on popular TV programs like "Big Brother Titans" and "Uzalo." While he works on his latest EP, there is no doubt that Zinaro's unwavering dedication to his craft and his community cements his status as an exceptional artist and a beacon of inspiration in the South African music scene.