Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BULAWAYO’S music landscape has so much been shaped by South African music that holds a special place in the hearts of Bulawayo residents, resonating deeply with their cultural identity and everyday experiences.
The vibrant rhythms, soulful melodies and energetic beats of South African genres such as amapiano, kwaito, Afrobeat and many other music genres often echo in the city’s streets, social gatherings and even in kombis.
The musical influence that Mzansi have on Bulawayo is more than just entertainment, it reflects shared histories, struggles and aspirations between the two regions and many Bulawayo youths are inspired by South African artists, whose songs often serve as anthems of resilience and hope.
Not only that, the cross-border musical exchange fosters a sense of unity and cultural affinity, making South African music an integral part of Bulawayo’s social fabric and a powerful expression of a collective identity. It is through those lenses that the departure of Platform One’s seasoned members led many to think that the group that once dazzled fans in Bulawayo’s social gatherings was fast becoming extinct.
However, South African Afro-Disco legend Freddie Gwala has revealed that the triple-platinum selling ensemble has managed to unearth new talent that will carry on the legacy of the group.
Madamara, as Gwala is affectionately known, clarified things following massive bookings that attracted Platform One, both in Zimbabwe and South Africa, over the festive season, with many seeking their entertainment services on wedding ceremonies. Initially, Platform One, which specialises in Afro-pop music, was formed in Soweto around 1990 by Gwala himself, after realising the guests’ lack of enthusiasm at weddings. He then created the group, together with its music to get people dancing at such gatherings. Known for their iconic songs like Isencane which blends traditional sounds with contemporary beats, the group boast of a massive catalogue that even today continues to mesmerise and entertain people on different weddings and social gatherings, as they evoke a nostalgia and a true complete sense of African weddings.
The group’s music has stood the test of time, and they continue to play a pivotal role in unifying different couples and families as they tie the knot.
However, a recent incident in Matabeleland saw Platform One being booked on different occasions, with the group represented by different people. Some saw a group comprising Nani Ntengo and Sonto Dladla, while the other was led by Freddie Gwala, Nelisiwe and a couple of new recruits.
This caused a lot of confusion to the group’s devoted followers, as such differences lead to suspicions of Platform One’s split.
On a video circulating on social media, Freddie Gwala is heard explaining to the attendees that he is the sole founder of Platform One and the group that he travels with is the original one.
Such strong words suggest that Nani and Sonto are illegally trading and using the group’s name, in the process, confusing promoters and clients, as Madamara said they left the group for greener pastures.
Sunday Life caught up with the legendary Madamara from his base in Soweto, as he explained that the Platform One trademark is registered under his name. Anyone who uses the name might face legal repercussions.
“I am the one who formed Platform One in the early 1990s and I want to clarify this for the first time, the trademark of the group is registered under my name. Anyone who uses the ensemble’s name to their advantage may have trouble with the law.
“Early members of the group included Nani Ntengo (lead vocals), Sonto Dladla, and myself, then the likes of Nelisiwe Gwala and Zamani Khumalo joined later. After spending decades with the group, Nani and Sonto left, as they have grown mature.
“The group now has new younger members, led by Nelisiwe. It comprises Tshepiso Binda, Boniswa Bengu, Sphamandla Khumalo, as well as myself. I am clarifying this so as not to confuse promoters and our fans. The group that I travel with is the true current set-up of Platform One,” said Gwala.
With the foundation of the group created on the values of family, Madamara assured fans that there is no bad blood between him and his siblings, as he said, “even if things go south, those who left are still welcome to come back home.”
On a lighter note, Madamara revealed that the new set-up of Platform One is working on a fresh album meant to create fresh musical elements that will meet the demands of their followers.
“Last year, we dropped a single titled Umfazi Ongemama, without Nani and Sonto, a sign that we have moved on and we are not looking back. We are working on an album which will be released this year under the music catalogue of Platform One.
“So after letting people know about the real issues surrounding the group, it has clarified a lot of speculations. Anyone who will temper with the group’s name, be it its former members or promoters, will face the music,” said Madamara.
