Bonga Kwana

Bonga Kwana is an award-winning writer and SAMA-nominated singer-songwriter who burst onto the South African music scene in 2019, instantly captivating audiences with their emotive sound and lyrical depth. Known for their unique blend of soulful melodies and socially resonant storytelling, Bonga has carved a powerful presence in contemporary music, with a growing global following and over 1 million independent streams to date.

Their breakout moment came with the acclaimed collaborative anthem "Ungazilibali," alongside industry giants Msaki, Ami Faku, Eryn Allen Kane, and Zolani Mahola. This pivotal release not only introduced Bonga to a wider audience but also solidified their role as a bold new voice in African music. By 2021, their debut EP, "New Faces To Old Problems," followed; an introspective project that garnered them a South African Music Award nomination for Best Afropop Album within just eight months of its release. Its lead single, "Nzwakazi," became a heartfelt anthem for the LGBTQ+ community.

Bonga’s talent for live performance has taken them from the intimate circles of Sofar Sounds to the iconic Montreux Jazz Festival stage in Switzerland. Their international footprint expanded further through a collaboration-rich stint at Nando’s Music Exchange in London, where they honed their craft with creatives from across the globe.

An ambitious creator and boundary-pusher, Bonga teamed up with renowned producer Drumpope in a groundbreaking collaboration that successfully shattered the Guinness World Record for the most songs recorded in a single year - an audacious achievement that speaks to their relentless drive and innovation.

Beyond the stage and studio, Bonga is a 2X Music Business Graduate and a force behind the scenes. They are the Founder and Managing Director of The Ramblings Network, an events and production company dedicated to elevating underrepresented voices in the arts. The company is the creative force behind IMIBONGO – A Musical Expression of Gratitude, a national tour supported by the National Arts Council (NAC). As a self-managed artist, Bonga’s ability to conceptualize, secure funding for, and execute such a major production demonstrates their entrepreneurial acumen and visionary leadership.

The IMIBONGO tour featured a powerful and diverse lineup of collaborators and guest performers, including Bucie, Onset Music Group from Tembisa, Kemy Chienda, Thandeka Mfinyongo, Digital Sangoma, Qaqamba Ntshinka, and the late, beloved Yallunder; each of whom brought unique energy and artistry to the celebration of music, memory, and gratitude.

In addition to their artistic pursuits, Bonga serves as Marketing Manager at Vice Entertainment, a Cape Town-based audio production house with roots in both Khayelitsha and the Cape Town CBD, where they continue to help shape the sonic landscape of the city.

Their songwriting prowess has reached beyond their own catalogue, penning tracks for Idols SA winner Zama Khumalo ("Sobabini") and spiritual influencer Gogo Skhotheni ("Ndiyakwamkela"). With each new project, Bonga Kwana reinforces their standing as an artist of integrity, impact, and undeniable talent.

Contact
Email: bongakwanamusic@gmail.com
Instagram: @bonga_kwana
WhatsApp: +27 62 702 0179