Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Tshibilika/Rhumba music group Insimbi ZeZhwane has claimed its throne in the genre, with their latest album Infundamakhwela solidifying their position at the top.
The group successfully launched its seven-track album at a sold-out show in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 1.
According to frontman Meluleki “Brema” Moyo, more than 4 000 people attended the launch, showing the group’s strong connection with their fans.
He said the album sold heavily at the event, with many buying USBs containing the full project, which was produced at TM Records. Songs on the album are Umthobanhliziyo, Ingezamanxeba, Inkemba, Ulibofuzo, Umambule and the title track Infundamakhwela.
Each track blends the rhythmic vibrancy that defines Rhumba with the polished sound of a band maturing through experience and healing. The album is flawless, thanks to band members Ergan “Magic Fingers” Nzima on vocals, Meluleki “Brema” Moyo, Praylord “Bhinkie Bhinkie” Mkhonto and Mafiyosi Ndlovu on instrumentation, as well as Nkosikhona Ngwabi, who oversaw mixing and mastering. Collectively, their talents complemented each other perfectly.
The major highlight of the launch came when fans gifted the band over R60 000 on stage in appreciation of the album. Among the generous contributors were Mbizo Contractors (R20 000), Sporori (R10 000), Philani Brandy Ndlovu (R10 000), Mangako (R5 000), Mdala Konka (R3 000), Putin (R3 000), Sokhela Zhwane (R1 000) and others.
“At the official launch, our fans turned out in numbers as the venue was filled to the brim. We’re grateful for what they’ve done for us, and we pray that they support other Rhumba musicians as they are doing to us so that the genre grows.
“Like always, we made history with this album as we broke records by selling out the launch. We’re growing in the right direction together with our fans. The future of Rhumba music is bright,” said Brema.
He said the album will take the group to new heights and showcase their growth. He also dedicated the project to their fallen band members Elvis “MaEli” Mathe and Thembinkosi “Maviri” Mpofu, who died in a road accident in 2023.
Local fans will get a taste of the new album on November 8, when the band launches it in Bulawayo. Another Rhumba heavyweight, Clement Magwaza, will join them to launch his latest album Indoda yi Umbrella, giving revellers a double treat .
Brema called on their loyal supporters, affectionately known as the Purple Nation, to turn out in their numbers for the local launch, describing it as a celebration of the group’s resilience and fans’ unwavering support.
“For our local launch, we’ll be joined by our brother Clement Magwaza, who also has a fresh album. This show is all about promoting peace and togetherness in the Rhumba music circle, as we encourage our fans to support every creative doing Rhumba music,” said Brema.
