Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, [email protected]
TSHOLOTSHO gave the world Insimbi ZeZhwane and may have just birthed the next kings of the genre with Amaboso Amahle, a young band formed two years ago but rising fast. The group has one album, Ubhayi Lwekhaza, released last year, and is soaring with their latest single, Izigqwele, released just two weeks ago.
Lead vocalist Mthulisi Ncube shared the story behind the band’s formation.
“The band was formed in 2024 by Meluleki Ngwenya (sub rhythm), Hlanganani Ndlovu (bass), and me after we realised we shared similar talents and decided to join forces. The group has six members, all from different areas of Tsholotsho, and I was chosen as the lead vocalist,” Ncube said.
Other band members include Thubelihle Ngwenya (manager and Meluleki’s brother), lead guitarist Praise Dube, and rhythm guitarist Liberty Tshuma.
“I come from Dikili, while brothers Thubelihle and Meluleki are from Dangwiri, Hlanganani from Gariya, Liberty from Ndutshwa, and Praise from Mungandume,” he said.
Ncube said the band’s name was inspired by his uncle’s love for the football team, Highlanders.
“He calls himself Tshilamoya, so we initially wanted to adopt that name, but after some debate, we settled on Amabhoso Amahle. It’s all for the love of Highlanders in the end,” he added.
Remarkably, the band entered the studio as novices, yet the final output clearly showcases the talent each member possesses.
The boys are yet to perform live, and while they have not had the same backing Insimbi ZeZhwane enjoyed, they remain authentic and far from mere imitators.
“We’ve never met Insimbi ZeZhwane and have no issues with our brothers. We’ve heard fans note similarities between our beats and theirs, and some even compare us to other bands, which shows that we are versatile and multi-dimensional,” Ncube said.
With their music available online on platforms like YouTube, Ncube said they have been pleasantly surprised by the response from fans, which has fuelled their drive to keep going. The group is preparing its second album, set for release later this year, and plans to hold live shows soon.
“We love the support we’re receiving; it shows we’re on the right track. Although we’ve never held live shows, we’re working on it, and fans will see us on stage soon,” he said. – @themkhust
