MABHOVU

Mabhovu is a five-piece band which is composed of both veteran and upcoming musicians. It is made up of Phumelele William ‘Pondo’ Dolosi (band leader, lead guitartist and vocals), Mondli Mavundla (vocals and keyboard), Mzwandile Kunene, (bass guitarist) and Nozipho Dlamini (vocals and percussion) and Sphiwe Chiburu on drums.

The name Mabhovu is taken from band member Dolosi’s nickname: Mabhovu – Xhosa for “mustache” - is a reference to the experienced musician’s mustache.

The band was formed in 2004 and through the experience of the lively and talented Phumelele which dates back all the way to 1971, the band came together quickly and matured with the ease and patience of a good wine. Therefore it is difficult to separate the band from Phumelele’s experience. He has played Mbaqanga with the Jola Queens in the 70s, with Pitch Black and Thabure (in Lesotho) in the 80s and as a session musician with Ringo Madlingozi and Allen Cameron in the 90s. And this century has brought him a new band that is set to make major strides in the industry.

Nozipho’s vast experience within the South African arts scene lends a sense of professionalism to the band. She has worked with the likes of Randy Crawford, Hugh Masekele, Jabu Khanyile and Quincy Jones, to name but a few.

Mabhovu has been performing in and around town from Moyo’s to Kippies and various private and corporate functions. Their collective experience as a band as well as their individual experiences have seen them perform with legends like Miriam Makeba and Ringo as well as having played and toured with the likes of, Dolly Rathebe, Sibongile Khumalo and Victor Ntoni’s African Renaissance band - the list is truly endless.

In their own words Mabhovu says their sound is an “Afro new syllabus style and taste”…and this music is a style that is truly palatable. Contemporary African flavor

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