FROM creating traditional music and dance sequences, to touring the globe and showcasing his talents on theatre stages, Matshitshi Ngema (47) has done it all.
When you first meet Matshitshi, his love for art especially for music and theatre are quite evident – he oozes positive energy and when he talks about his craft, his face lights up.
Hailing for the green hills of Kwanoshungu Reserve in Mtunzini, this musician, composer, choreographer and actor is a legend in his own right.
Not only has he made a name for himself across the globe but he has earned respect in the music industry.
He is listed as one of the maskandi giants in South Africa and continues to fly the local flag high.
Matshitshi was hit by the entertainment bug when he was in primary school.
‘I used to be a leader of a traditional group, not knowing it will take me to places,’ he said.
The beginning
This talented performer began by creating local plays and dance sequences.
He started working with Barry Leitch at Shakaland as a lead dancer and instructor before he joined the Committed Artists Foundation.
He later ventured into a solo musical career and released his self-penned debut album, Amantombazane.
In 1999 he featured in Mbongeni Ngema’s musical, The Zulu, which toured Europe.
The duo later presented the show in a two-man show across the continent.
In 2004 he performed at the Presidential Inauguration of former president Thabo Mbeki alongside Mbongeni Ngema, Hugh Masikela, just to name a few.
Thereafter, Matshitshi joined the international acclaimed theatre project, House of Shaka in Johannesburg before he returned to the studio to work on his sophomore outing titled, Nongoma.
His fame in SA grew when he won Ukhozi FM’s award for Best Performer of Maskandi Music.
After the award, he worked with Busi Mhlongo, Jonas Ngwangwa, Madala Kunene and Hugh Masikela and has toured more than 40 countries.
This local muso has since recorded another project and recently featured as a musical director in the Zululand based theatre project, Death of the Emperor Shaka.
On Thursday this legend will give a lecture during the King Cetshwayo Artists Workshop, meanwhile next weekend, he will perform at the uMhlathuze Maskandi Festival in Richards Bay.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
