Iconic South African group, the Soul Brothers, are celebrating their 50th anniversary with the release of a new album and a nationwide tour honouring the band’s founding members and their decades-long musical legacy.
The mbaqanga legends announced the launch of their 50th Anniversary Album, which features previously unreleased tracks and includes the voice of the late David Masondo, one of the band’s original members who passed away in 2015.
Known for timeless hits such as Mama ka Sibongile and Bazobuya, the group said the new album serves as both a celebration and commemoration of their journey since forming in the early 1970s.
“To all our fans around the world, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering love and support over the past 50 years,” the band said in a statement.
The album pays tribute to founding members Zenzele Mchunu, Tuza Mthethwa, David Masondo, and America Zulu, as well as several past members who helped shape the group’s signature sound. These include Japan Sidoyi, Sipho Bhengu, Mpompi Sosibo, Lawrence Mothoa, Vusi Mabuza, Mbongeleni Dladla, Javas Magubane, Lemmy Mabaso, Thomas Phale, Maxwell Mngadi, Sicelo Ndlela, Sifiso Nyoka, and July Mhlabane.
Following the release of their 2023 album Hamba Naye, the group revisited their archives and rediscovered unreleased songs recorded during earlier sessions. Using modern music technology and artificial intelligence, they were able to restore and refine the tracks.
“At the time they didn’t meet our standards, but I knew they had potential,” said a band spokesperson. “Using modern tools, we adjusted keys, tempos, and arrangements—not to change the songs, but to bring them closer to the original vision.”
A highlight of the album is the inclusion of Masondo’s vocals, allowing fans to hear his voice once more. “His spirit lives on in every note and lyric. The album is our tribute to him and all the members who helped build this legacy,” the group said.
The project also features an international collaboration with visiting musician Adam Glazzer, who plays the mouth organ on one of the tracks.
To mark the album’s release, the Soul Brothers will embark on a national tour, beginning on October 31 at the Piet Retief Town Hall in Mpumalanga and continuing on November 1 at the Empangeni Town Hall in KwaZulu-Natal. Additional dates and cities will be announced soon.
“We’re confirming bookings and can’t wait to bring the music to our fans across the country,” the group added.
