TOP Maskandi Legends Form Trio to Praise KZN Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi

In a remarkable show of unity and respect, three of South Africa’s top maskandi legends have joined forces to form a trio called Ama-Legends. Shwi, famous for his hit Shwi NoMtekhala, Thokozani ‘Somnandi’ Langa, and Ali Mgube came together not only to celebrate the work of KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi but also to promote harmony within the often divided maskandi music community.

On Saturday, 19 July, Ama-Legends released their debut single titled Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a heartfelt tribute to the police commissioner for his impactful work in KZN. Beyond applauding Mkhwanazi’s dedication, the trio aims to use their collaboration as a powerful message to the younger generation of maskandi artists, encouraging unity in a genre sometimes marred by rivalries and disputes.

Ali Mgube, 52, from KwaMaphumulo in KZN, told Daily Sun that fans had long urged them to join forces as a trio to inspire solidarity among maskandi musicians. “After the fans influenced us for a long time to do a trio, we finally agreed and made a short video singing together and posted it on Facebook. We received a warm response, then we decided to record a five-song EP, but for now, we have released the single about Mkhwanazi,” he explained.

The trio carefully chose a topical subject that resonates with many South Africans. “We sat down to think about the issues facing our country and agreed that Mkhwanazi is doing a good job that needs to be praised. With this track, we are showing him that we recognise his good work. We are not criticising others, but as South Africans, we all stand against crime, regardless of who is involved,” Ali added.

Beyond their tribute, Ama-Legends are passionate about fostering peace within the maskandi community. Ali emphasized their mission to teach young musicians about unity, urging them to avoid unnecessary conflicts that not only divide fans but have sometimes escalated to violence. “Going forward, we want to conduct workshops with young musicians, teaching them about music as a business and the dangers of fighting as artists,” he said.

Thokozani Langa, also 52, shared how the trio came together initially through a photoshoot arranged by Ali, who serves as an ambassador for Crawl Clothing. “After that, as musicians, we just sang together and posted videos on Facebook. People demanded a professionally recorded song, and we answered their demand. As Mzansi residents and artists, we realised that we needed to do a song about Mkhwanazi. After this single, we will drop the EP,” he stated.

Shwi, whose real name is Mandla Xaba, admitted the overwhelming pressure from maskandi fans inspired their decision to formalise the trio. “We couldn’t handle the pressure from maskandi fans who wanted us to release a song together. We decided to do an EP to see how they would respond after they warmly welcomed our singing together on Facebook,” he said.

Ama-Legends’ collaboration represents more than just a musical milestone; it’s a cultural moment encouraging respect, unity, and positive change within the maskandi genre. Their tribute to Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi also highlights the important role community leaders play in South Africa’s ongoing fight against crime.

As the trio prepares to release their full EP, fans and fellow musicians alike eagerly anticipate more music that uplifts and unites. Ama-Legends are proving that through harmony and collaboration, even the most traditional music scenes can evolve and inspire.