Hilda Tloubatla Keeps the Mahotella Queens Legacy Alive at 83
Hilda Tloubatla, the last surviving original member of the Mahotella Queens, is not slowing down. At 83, she is passing on the mbaqanga torch and keeping its flame strong.
With the same grace and grit that have defined the group since 1964, Tloubatla remains committed to preserving mbaqanga’s rhythm, message, and spirit for future generations. She is currently in Tokyo, Japan, alongside Amanda Nkosi and Nonku Maseko, where the Mahotella Queens headlined the World Music and Dance Festival in Hokkaido.
Before a crowd of 30,000, the trio delivered the group’s signature harmonies and timeless hits. It was their first time performing in Japan since 2005. “This is a fascinating time for us. I’m glad to be back in Japan after two decades,” Tloubatla told SMag. “The people here love our music. They find our style authentic.”
She reflected on past tours with legends like Ray Charles, Sammy Davis Jr, Quincy Jones, and Michael Jackson. “All the American musicians knew that once the Mahotella Queens stepped on stage, the audience wouldn’t want us to leave,” she said.
Tloubatla credits the group’s longevity to unity and mutual respect. “Since 1964, the band has been a family. Everyone plays a role and every role matters,” she said.
Since the passing of Nobesuthu Mbadu and the retirement of Mildred Mangxola, Tloubatla has mentored Nkosi and Maseko, ensuring the group stays true to its roots while embracing new energy. “I show them how to dance and what to do on stage,” she said.
Additional shows in Tokyo and Osaka have reinforced the Mahotella Queens’ international impact. Tloubatla plans to keep performing. “Until my God says it’s time, I plan to be on stage until I am 100 years old,” she said.
She sees mbaqanga as timeless. “The music we found on earth will continue even when we’re gone. Ours is to share it with the world. My message to the next generation is: believe in God, carry yourself with discipline, and honour the music.”
After 61 years, the Mahotella Queens are still going strong, and the world is still listening.
