Phuzekhemisi Remains a Force in Maskandi Music After Nearly Four Decades

KwaDumisa-born maskandi legend Phuzekhemisi, whose real name is Zibokwakhe Mnyandu, continues to shine in South Africa’s music scene nearly 40 years after he started his career. At 62, he remains active, releasing new music and competing with younger stars in the industry.

Last month, Phuzekhemisi suffered a broken right leg during a performance, but he says the injury will not stop him. “It was my first time one of my bones in my body got broken and I’m not the one who normally goes to hospital, but because of my broken leg, I’m in and out of hospital. But I’m recovering now, and I’ll be back on stage soon,” he told Daily Sun.

Despite his age, Phuzekhemisi is nominated at the 2025 South African Music Awards (SAMAs) for Best Maskandi Album with his latest release, Ipolitiki. He is competing alongside young stars such as Khuzani Mpungose, Ntencane, Umfakizolo, and Imithente.

Phuzekhemisi attributes his enduring relevance to singing about topical issues that affect people. “I sing about what people want to talk about but are scared to talk about. As the musician, I become their voice and raise all concerns with my music. Singing about topical issues sometimes gets me in trouble as other people claim that I’m politicising things and others close doors for me while others open doors for me. Some of my songs get rejected on radio stations,” he said.

With more than 30 albums and over 20 awards, Phuzekhemisi encourages younger musicians to address social and political issues in their music. “Our work as musicians is to tackle the topical issues without fear or favour and be a voice of the voiceless people. The nomination is a win for me because it shows that I’m still relevant at my age,” he said.

Phuzekhemisi released his debut albums Wemalume and Washaya Abantu in 1988, and his 1991 hit Imbizo is regarded as a maskandi classic. Over the decades, he has maintained a consistent presence in the genre, influencing generations of musicians while staying true to his style.

Despite setbacks like his recent injury, Phuzekhemisi remains determined to continue performing and contributing to South Africa’s music landscape. His resilience and commitment to addressing real-life issues through maskandi music have cemented his legacy as one of the genre’s most enduring and influential voices.