Mbuso Khoza to Celebrate Zulu Heritage with Amahubo Symphony at Constitution Hill

Mbuso Khoza, acclaimed South African musician and composer, is set to host the Amahubo Symphony concert at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on September 28. The event will showcase traditional family songs, lullabies, prayers and hymns orchestrated for the first time by Siyanda Zulu. Khoza’s work aims to preserve and elevate Zulu cultural music for future generations.

Khoza’s musical journey began in community ceremonies and family life. He recalls being inspired by Amabutho singing at local ceremonies, young girls practising at uMemulo, and older women singing lullabies. Raised in a household influenced by the Salvation Army and the Nazareth Baptist Church, Khoza was exposed to both hymns and Shembe worship traditions. His uncle’s church involvement and listening to gospel artist Vuyo Mokoena further shaped his passion for music, leading him to choose a musical career over studying law.

Moving to Johannesburg at 22, Khoza initially imitated Mokoena before meeting jazz pianist and composer Themba Mkhize, who became another major influence. Khoza emphasizes that his Zulu heritage is inseparable from his music, shaping both its sound and philosophy. He treats history as a guide, allowing traditional metaphors and language to inform his songwriting and compositions.

Khoza has composed music for major South African television dramas, including Umkhokha: The Curse and Shaka iLembe. For these projects, he balanced cultural authenticity with creative expression. His work on Shaka iLembe was especially personal, as some of the historical events depicted involved his ancestors. His early introduction to film scoring came from singing for Leon Schuster’s Mama Jack, eventually leading to international projects and a full-time career in composition.

For Khoza, music and storytelling are inseparable. He draws on traditions of lullabies and Amahubo, which often carried political and historical messages disguised as children’s songs. He also credits acting, appearing in productions such as Masinga – The Calling and House of Zwide, as a way to connect his voice with his identity and deepen his artistry.

The Amahubo Symphony will feature traditional orchestration, aiming to safeguard lullabies, bedtime songs and family prayers for future generations. The event will also include traditional food, discussions on family history, and spiritual well-being, highlighting Khoza’s commitment to community and cultural preservation.

Khoza speaks openly about mental health, sharing his personal struggles with debt and depression, and emphasising the importance of resilience. His upcoming projects include the Umsuthu Mental Space, promoting dialogue on anxiety and depression, and an arts centre in Johannesburg that will train young people in isiZulu, philosophy, acting and music theory, offering formal certification to graduates.

Khoza views his legacy as one of truth, kindness and service. Through music, education and cultural preservation, he aims to leave a lasting impact on South African society while inspiring future generations to value heritage and creativity.