Influence Profile
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Trending in Vusi Mahalasela’s World
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Quick Facts
Born
1965
1965
From
South Africa
South Africa
Journey
Vusi Sidney Mahlasela Ka Zwane, widely known by the moniker Vusi Mahlasela and often called “The Voice,” is one of South Africa’s most respected singer-songwriters, poets, and cultural activists.
Born in Pretoria and raised in the township of Mamelodi, he grew up during the apartheid era, a time that deeply influenced both his outlook and artistic direction. Raised largely by his grandmother, he was exposed to the lively atmosphere surrounding her shebeen, where music, storytelling, and community gatherings helped spark his early creative interests.
Mahlasela later taught himself to play the guitar using improvised materials and began writing songs and poetry that captured the experiences, struggles, and hopes of the people around him.
During the 1980s, he became involved with activist writers and artists, including the Congress of South African Writers, using music and spoken word as forms of expression during a period of political resistance. His performances at cultural and community events gradually established him as a powerful voice advocating freedom, dignity, and social awareness.
Mahlasela reached a wider audience with the release of his debut album When You Come Back, whose title track resonated strongly with South Africans returning from exile during the country’s democratic transition. His growing prominence led to his participation in the 1994 inauguration of Nelson Mandela, a historic moment that further cemented his place in South Africa’s musical landscape.
Over the years, Mahlasela has built a respected body of work that combines African folk influences with contemporary sounds. Projects including Wisdom of Forgiveness, Silang Mabele, Guiding Star, and Say Africa showcase his skill in blending meaningful storytelling with socially conscious themes. His warm and expressive vocals have earned him the enduring nickname “The Voice.”
Throughout his career, he has toured extensively and shared stages with internationally known artists such as Sting, Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. In addition to his musical work, Mahlasela has remained committed to humanitarian causes, serving as an ambassador for the 46664 campaign, which promotes awareness and action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
His impact has been widely acknowledged through several honors, including multiple South African Music Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and the National Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) for his contributions to music and social justice. He has also received honorary doctorates from Rhodes University and the University of KwaZulu-Natal in recognition of his cultural influence.
With a career spanning more than three decades, Vusi Mahlasela continues to be celebrated as a musician whose songs of hope, resilience, and reconciliation have touched audiences both in South Africa and around the world.