Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
FOR many Tshibilika and rhumba music lovers, the name Partner Moyo may not immediately ring a bell. Yet behind that name is one of the most gifted and highly regarded musicians in the Friendly Brothers (Eze Energy) band led by Godolude, born Mandlenkosi Mpofu.
Affectionately known as Mawaya, the talented artiste is the band’s versatile instrumentalist, predominantly playing the bass guitar, while also displaying remarkable skill on lead guitar, rhythm guitar and drums.
Beyond his instrumental prowess, Mawaya has also distinguished himself as a composer and vocalist. His song Isibindi SeLiquor, popularly known as Dlala Bhabhadzi, featured on Godolude’s 2025 album Back to Sender, has become a crowd favourite and a regular feature at social gatherings. The track was also widely regarded as a strong contender for Song of the Year accolades.
Like many talented creatives who work behind the scenes, Mawaya is reserved and initially reluctant to open up to strangers. However, once he begins sharing his story, it becomes evident that his musical journey has been defined by resilience, determination and passion.
“I was born in 1996 in Mtshabezi, Gwanda, and attended Mtshabezi Primary School. For secondary education, I didn’t go very far because of financial challenges. Like most boys in rural areas, I spent much of my childhood herding cattle. We played many games, but from a very young age, I loved homemade guitars,” he said.
After failing to continue with his education, the musician, whose birth name is Nkosikhona, moved from Gwanda to Bulawayo to stay with his sister. The relocation proved pivotal, as it exposed him to electric guitars and afforded him opportunities to sharpen his skills while performing with various groups.
“The first band I played with was Dingilwazi Mr Tsholotsho before joining Modious Chauke. After that, I joined Clement Magwaza as his bassist. I later left for South Africa, and that is when we formed the Friendly Brothers Band.“Initially, it was just Godolude and I, but Amzoe’s name was included because he was more well-known than I was at the time,” he said.
Despite his exceptional talent on the guitar, Mawaya remains humble and insists he is still learning. He revealed that his nickname was given to him by his father, who was amused by his playful antics during childhood.
He said Dlala Bhabhadzi was composed while he was working under contract for the Rural Electrification Fund, adding that humour plays a central role in his songwriting.“I observed the things people do after drinking beer because sometimes they behave in ways that a sober person normally would not,” he said.
Among his other compositions are Fejafeja, Isifiso Sami and Amadimoni, tracks that have featured on previous Godolude albums.Although he once dreamt of leading his own band, Mawaya said he is content working alongside Godolude, with whom he shares a strong professional relationship.
“I love the support I get from fans and I promise to continue making them happy. What I need most is their support so that I continue to grow and mature, and maybe one day run my own band,” said the father of one.
