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Showbiz Reporter
MURUMBA Pitch, the acclaimed South African Amapiano duo consisting of Thabang Innocent Mangolo and Emmanuel Nanga Mathye, has officially split.
The duo announced their separation last week, stating in a joint statement that they had mutually agreed to end their partnership and contractual relationship, effective immediately.
Known for their soulful melodies and collaborations, Murumba Pitch made a significant impact on the Amapiano scene with hits such as Wena Dali, Hamba Juba and Uyeke. Their music resonated across the continent, with Zimbabweans among those who enjoyed their electrifying performances.
Founded in Limpopo, South Africa, Murumba Pitch was originally established in 2012 by Venda music producer and rapper Chifo Charge, who later handed over leadership to Emmanuel Mathye in 2013.
While the duo did not disclose specific reasons for their split, they said that the decision was mutual and aimed at allowing each member to pursue solo careers and new opportunities in the music industry.
“It is with great sadness that we announce, following a meeting held on 6 March, Innocent and Emmanuel have reached a mutual decision to terminate their partnership and contractual relationship with immediate effect.
“This decision marks a new chapter, and both parties are committed to moving forward independently, focusing on new opportunities and future endeavours. Both parties have agreed that a formal media statement would be released to inform the public of this development.
“Additionally, the parties will be working together to ensure a fair and amicable settlement regarding the division of business interests in the Murumba Pitch brand. We thank you for your understanding and appreciate your support during this transition,” it was communicated in a statement.
The announcement has been met with sadness on social media, as fans had high hopes for the duo’s future.
Over the weekend, Mangolo reassured fans and promoters that upcoming performances would still go ahead as planned.
“I’m no longer working with my former partner, Emmanuel Nanga Mathye, at Murumba Pitch, but we’re still active and making waves in the streets. I want to assure those who have booked us for future performances not to worry – we’ll still be there and we’re bringing new music soon.
“We’ll also be launching new handles on Facebook and Instagram, though our YouTube and TikTok accounts will retain the same name, so don’t worry, we’re here.”
Murumba Pitch joins a list of celebrated African musical duos that have split due to personal differences, creative conflicts, financial disputes, or individual ambitions.
One of Zimbabwe’s most beloved duos, Afrika Revenge, featuring Willis Wataffi and Mehluli “Taz” Moyo, gained prominence in the early 2000s with hits like Wanga, Anochengeta and Usazondisiya, before splitting in 2007. Though they never publicly disclosed the reasons for their breakup, speculation pointed to creative differences and individual ambitions. Both artistes pursued solo careers, but their chemistry as Afrika Revenge was difficult to replicate.
They briefly reunited for performances, including one in 2014, but the magic of their early days never fully returned. Many believe they could have reached greater heights had they stayed together.
The Nigerian twin duo, Peter and Paul Okoye, split in 2017 due to family disputes and business disagreements. Their solo efforts never matched their collective success. They later reconciled and reunited in 2021, but it was never the same.
The hip-hop/R&B group, once considered Kenya’s future in music, disbanded around 2013 as members pursued individual careers. Despite attempts at solo ventures, none matched the group’s initial impact.
South Africa’s most beloved Afro-pop band, Mafikizolo, consisting of Nhlanhla Nciza and Theo Kgosinkwe, temporarily split in the early 2000s after the passing of third member Tebogo Madingoane. They later reunited and produced hits like Khona, proving that some duos work best together.
Another South African group, Malaika, featuring Bongani Nchang, Jabulani Ndaba (late), and Matshediso “Tshedi” Mholo, dominated the Afro-pop scene in the early 2000s with hits like Destiny, Mhla Uphel’ Amandla and Sebakanyana. Internal conflicts emerged in 2008 and Ndaba’s passing in 2013 further led to their decline. The remaining members never achieved the same success as a duo.
The split of Murumba Pitch marks a major moment in the Amapiano scene. As both members embark on solo careers, fans and the music industry will watch closely to see if they can replicate their past success. Whether they will follow in the footsteps of P-Square and reunite, or remain apart like Afrika Revenge, remains to be seen.
Online Reporter