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Trending in Umanji’s World
Latest Album
The Collection
Released Aug 6, 2006
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Quick Facts
Born
1968
1968
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Umanji, born Maruti Johannes Nkuna around 1968 in Zebediela, Limpopo, South Africa, was a talented singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist known for his Afro-pop and Afro-soul music. Before pursuing a career in music, he served eight years in the South African Police Force, an experience that shaped his discipline and perspective on social issues, which he later expressed through his songs.
He launched his music career in 1999 with the album "Moloi" (The Witch), which gained attention for its socially conscious lyrics and earned him a South African Music Award (SAMA) nomination for Best Newcomer. Following this, he released Wantolobela in 2001 and Ndlala in 2003, the latter earning him a SAMA award for Best Male Composer in 2005. Umanji’s music often blended traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds, sung in multiple languages including Tsonga, Sepedi, Zulu, and English, which helped him reach a wide audience.
In 2006, Umanji publicly revealed his battle with HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, highlighting the struggles artists face when ill and navigating the music industry. Unfortunately, he passed away on 26 February 2008 at Zebediela Hospital due to AIDS-related complications.
Despite his untimely death, Umanji’s music continues to resonate with fans for its emotional depth, storytelling, and social awareness. Songs like Moloi and Ndlala remain celebrated for addressing injustice, human struggles, and cultural identity, cementing his legacy as one of South Africa’s most respected Afro-pop and Afro-soul artists.