Mahotella Queens

The Mahotella Queens are a famous female music group from South Africa.

They are known for a style called mbaqanga. This music was born in recording studios during the 1960s. It was the first genre in South Africa to use fully electric rhythm instruments. The group creates a very special sound for their listeners. They combine many-part girl group harmonies with energetic dancing on stage. This upbeat music offered people a happy escape during the hard era of apartheid. Their music brings people together through joy and strong beats.

Performing with the Queens is a busy and exciting thing. They often sing with a man named Simon "Mahlathini" Nkabinde. He was a soloist known as a "groaner." This name came from his very deep and unique singing voice. The Queens also perform with the Makgona Tsohle Band for backup. Their stage shows are very lively and boisterous. They mix traditional Zulu and Xhosa dances with American jive dance moves. This mix of styles makes their shows very fun to watch. The music feels constant and robust for everyone listening.

This musical journey began in 1964 with a man named Rupert Bopape. He was a talent scout who worked for Gallo Africa. He wanted to start a new music branch called Mavuthela Music. At first, the group was a revolving line of female singers. They sometimes used different names to compete with other groups. Eventually, the name Mahotella Queens became the most famous one. The group grew very popular by the early 1970s. They became one of the most successful musical acts in South Africa.

Many famous people and places are part of their history. In 1973, their hit song "Umculo Kawupheli" sold 25,000 copies. This song means "the music never ends." In 1987, three original members toured France. This helped them start a career of touring the whole world. They played at Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday concert in London. They also played at his first inauguration as president in 1994. Since 2017, the group has included Hilda Tloubatla, Amanda Nkosi, and Nonku Maseko. They have traveled to many places like Japan and Australia.

Their music connects many different sounds and cultures together. They take traditional African rhythms and add modern electric instruments. This specific sound is sometimes called "mgqashiyo." Even when important members passed away, the Queens kept going. They released a comeback album in 2000 called Sebai Bai. This album was dedicated to their old friends and leaders. They even tried new sounds by mixing their music with house music. The Mahotella Queens show how music can stay strong for many decades.