Influence Profile
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Trending in Black Moses’s World
Latest Album
M1 & M2 (2 On 1)
Released Jul 21, 2008
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Story
Quick Facts
Born
1958
1958
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Moses “Black Moses” Ngwenya, born on July 15, 1958, in Soweto, is a preeminent South African keyboardist, composer, and producer who redefined the mbaqanga genre. Emerging from the vibrant township of Dube during the 1970s, Ngwenya honed his professional skills with the Groovy Boys and collaborated with talent scout Hamilton Nzimande before co-founding the legendary Soul Brothers in the mid-1970s.
Alongside vocalist David Masondo, Ngwenya became the architect of the band’s signature sound. His rhythmic, percussive Hammond organ style provided the melodic foundation for the group, propelling them to become one of South Africa’s most prolific acts. Over several decades, Soul Brothers released more than 45 albums, including milestones such as Isicelo (1983) and the SAMA-winning Hamba Naye (2024). Their influence spanned borders, reaching migrant communities throughout Southern Africa and securing six consecutive South African Music Awards during the 1990s.
Parallel to his band's success, Ngwenya established a robust solo career under the moniker Black Moses. He released over a dozen solo projects, most notably his influential "M" series, which began in the late 1980s and extended through M20. These recordings, including Guiding Star (2007) and Turn On The Light (2010), showcased his technical versatility as an instrumentalist and arranger.
Ngwenya’s enduring legacy is marked by prestigious accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the SAMAs in 2007 and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of South Africa in 2020. As the primary custodian of the Soul Brothers’ heritage following the passing of his original bandmates, he continues to lead the ensemble and mentor younger musicians. Through his vast discography and innovation, Ngwenya remains a central figure in South African recorded history, dedicated to preserving the mbaqanga tradition.