SOUTH African mbaqanga music group Soul Brothers will this month celebrate their 50th anniversary and launch of their album Thath’owakho.
Soul Brothers have a large following in Zimbabwe, particularly the Midlands and Matabeleland regions.
The group hailed their fans across the world for rallying behind them all these years, adding that in marking this milestone, they will conduct a series of tours and shows in various places in the neighbouring country to appreciate their supporters.
In a statement to fans across the world, the founding member, pianist, keyboardist and musician Moses Ngwenya thanked all the fans for their unwavering love and support over the past 50 years.
“We formed Soul Brothers half a century ago, and your loyalty has carried us every step of the way,” he said.
“This album is not only a celebration of that journey, but also a heartfelt commemoration of our founding members: Zenzele Mchunu, Tuza Mthethwa, David Masondo and America Zulu.
“We also honour the many other incredible musicians who were part of this journey and helped shape the legacy of Soul Brothers: Japan Sidoyi, Sipho Bhengu, Mpompi Sosibo, Lawrence Mothoa, Vusi Mabuza, Mbongeleni Dladla, Javas Magubane, Lemmy Mabaso, Thomas Phale, Maxwell Mngadi, Sicelo Ndlela, Sifiso Nyoka and July Mhlabane.”
Ngwenya said after the release of their 2023 album Hamba Naye, he began thinking about the next chapter.
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He said in early 2024, the vision for their 50th anniversary album started to take shape.
“I drove into our archives — going all the way back to the beginning — and rediscovered songs that were never released. At the time, they didn’t meet our standards, but I knew they had potential,” he said.
“With the help of new technology and AI, I began the profound work of resurrection. It felt like opening a channel to the past.
“I was able to carefully revisit and revive these tracks, adjusting the keys, BPM, and arrangements, not to change them, but to perfect the vision the brothers originally held.”
Ngwenya said the goal was to polish the recordings until the soul of their original sound was shining and ready for today’s audience.
“What makes this album truly special is that fans will hear the voice of the legendary David Masondo one last time. Though we lost him in 2015, his spirit lives on in every note and lyric. This album is our tribute to him, and to all the members who contributed to our legacy,” he said.
“In this album, we had the pleasure of collaborating with international artist Adam Glazzer, who plays the mouth organ.
“He visited us during our recording sessions, and we decided to feature him on one of the tracks.”
Ngwenya said to celebrate this milestone, they are hitting the road to various places to thrill fans.
“The Soul Brothers 50th Anniversary Tour kicks off in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, in Piet Retief Town Hall on October 31, 2025 and Empangeni Town Hall on November 1, 2025, with more towns and cities to be announced soon,” he said.
“We’re still confirming bookings and can’t wait to bring the music to our fans across the country. Stay tuned for tour dates and get ready to sing and dance with us once again!
“We hope you enjoy this commemorative album as much as we enjoyed creating it. Here’s to 50 years of Soul Brothers — and the music still lives on.”
