Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena Sunday Life Reporter
VETERAN jazz musician Jeys Marabini is celebrating what he describes as a career-defining milestone after securing a collaboration with one of his long-time musical inspirations, legendary South Africa-based Zimbabwean guitarist Louis Mhlanga.
The project, which will debut with a single and an accompanying music video, marks the first official collaboration between the two acclaimed musicians. For Marabini, the partnership represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
Speaking about the collaboration, Marabini said working with Mhlanga is something he had long wished for. He revealed that their growing friendship over the years laid the foundation for the upcoming project.
“I’ve performed with Louis Mhlanga about three times in Zimbabwe. We did two shows in Harare through Alliance Française and another performance in Bulawayo during the Jazz Festival. Over the past four years, we kept crossing paths and eventually built a strong bond.
“At one point, he told me how much he loved my music, and I was honestly amazed because I’ve always viewed him as one of the legends of African jazz. When I visited South Africa last month, I requested a meeting with him, and during our conversation, I suggested a collaboration. To my surprise, he immediately agreed,” he said.
Marabini said work on the project is already underway, with the pair starting with a single they hope to release before the end of the year.
“We’re beginning with a single. I’ve already created an instrumental sketch, which I sent to him. He’s now adding his signature guitar melodies to the track. Once that phase is complete, we’ll discuss the lyrical content and themes of the song.
“This is going to be a huge project for us, and we’re planning to accompany it with a music video. We want to give jazz lovers something truly special,” he said.
He said the collaboration carries deep personal significance, revealing that Mhlanga played a major role in shaping his own musical journey.
“When we talk about Louis Mhlanga, we’re talking about a musical giant whose brilliance has been witnessed for decades. Some people call me a legend, but for me, Mhlanga is one of my greatest inspirations because I started listening to his music while I was still at school.
“He’s a legend who has travelled the world and performed on some of the biggest stages imaginable. To finally work with him is a dream come true. I admire his style of live music, and I believe our sounds will blend perfectly.”
Beyond the music, Marabini said the collaboration has already become a valuable learning experience. He praised Mhlanga for his humility, generosity, and willingness to support fellow musicians.
“Three years ago, Mhlanga introduced me to legendary radio presenter Nicky B from Kaya FM in South Africa. During my recent visit, she hosted me on her show, and I honestly couldn’t believe it. Without Mhlanga, that opportunity would never have happened. It shows how genuine and supportive he is,” said Marabini.
The “Ezinangeni” hit-maker shared how, during his stay in South Africa, he spent a great deal of time discussing the music industry and the importance of collaboration with Mhlanga.
“We spent time together, went to the mall, shared ideas and spoke about the music business. He gave me valuable advice and insights on how to remain relevant in the industry. It was inspiring to learn from someone of his calibre.”
Marabini hinted that fans could soon witness the pair sharing the stage in Bulawayo.
“Once the song is complete, we’re hoping to stage a live performance together in Bulawayo. If all goes according to plan, we’ll make the official announcement soon,” he said.
Based in South Africa, Mhlanga is regarded as one of Southern Africa’s finest guitarists.
The award-winning musician and producer began his professional career in the 1970s after teaching himself how to play the guitar at a young age.
He carved his name into African music through timeless songs and albums that blended jazz, Afro-fusion and traditional Zimbabwean rhythms.
Among his most celebrated works are tracks such as “Rhumba All the Way”, “Zuva”, “Mari Hukuna” and “Kamba Kemaziso”.
His albums “Mukai,” “Musik Ye Afrika,” “Shamwari” and “World Traveller” became fan favourites across the continent, with “World Traveller” earning international acclaim for its rich collaborations and polished African jazz sound.
Over the decades, Mhlanga has shared stages and studios with some of Africa’s biggest icons, such as the late Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo, Ilanga and Talking Drum, helping shape the region’s Afro-jazz movement.
His relocation to South Africa opened doors to collaborations with continental giants, including Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ray Phiri, Busi Mhlongo and Vusi Mahlasela. Internationally, he also collaborated with celebrated artistes such as Habib Koité, Ernest Ranglin and Senegalese outfit Orchestra Baobab, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s finest guitarists.
His style of playing and consistency are the ones that inspired Marabini to venture into Jazz music.
