Sipho 'Big Fish' Makhabane

Sipho Makhabane was born in Mpumalanga in 1965 into a poor family. His father passed away when he was young, forcing him to leave drop out of primary school. While doing odds jobs in construction, then as a technician for Telkom, he developed a passion for gospel. His breakthrough came in the mid-90s with the hits ‘Ngitinikela kuwe’ and ‘Yek’intokozo’. He went on to release a string of big-selling albums, including 'Calvary' (2001), 'Moya Wami' (2003), 'Umuzi Omuhle' (2005), 'Hamba Nami' (2008) and 'Ebenezer' (2009). Along the way he has picked up numerous SAMA and Crown Gospel awards, as well as a Kora nomination, earning the nickname “Big Fish” for his influential role in the industry.

Makhabane retired officially in 2010 in a much publicized event at the Pretoria State Theatre, released as a live DVD and CD. He retired to focus his energies on developing the young talent. He established his own label, Big Fish Music, and has groomed or produced a host of young gospel stars, including Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Pastor Ncanda, Israel Mosehla, Mzwakhe Myeni, Tshepiso Motaung, Sechaba, Frans Dlamini, Ncandweni Christ Ambassadors, Lundi and many others.