Mphatheni Khumalo popularly known as Mfaz’ Omnyama (1959–2001) was a South African performer of Maskandi music, guitar player, and lyricist.[1]

Mfaz’ Omnyama
Birth nameMpatheni khumalo
Born1959
Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
OriginKwaZulu-Natal
DiedSt Benedict Hospital
Genresmaskandi
Occupations
  • singer
  • producer
Instrumentguitar
LabelsGallo Record Company

He is known for his hit singles such as Khula Tshitshi Lami, Ngisebenzile Mama and Ngiyashisa Bhe.

Early life and music career

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Khumalo was born in rural Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal. He was a left-handed self-taught master of the string and stage, and released many top-selling albums in his time.[2]

Khumalo was discovered by former Ukhozi FM presenter and host Bodloza Nzimande while working in a mine in North West province which employed labourers from the Eastern Cape, specifically from Pondoland.

He was a solo musician and later became part of a music group called “Izingqungqulu Zomhlaba” consisting of Phuzekhemisi and Ihhashi Elimhlophe. Busi Mhlongo did several cover versions of his songs in his memory.

Death

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Mpatheni Khumalo died at the age of 42 in 2001, at St. Benedict Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after struggling from pancreatic cancer.[3] He left eight children and his wife.[3]

Discography

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Studio albums

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  • Emazweni Baba (1995)
  • Amagugu (1996)
  • Khula Tshitshi Lami (1997)
  • Ngiyashisa Bhe!! (1999)
  • Ngisebenzile Mama (2000)
  • Ngihlanze Ngedela (2001)

International Performances

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References

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  1. ^ "Mfaz'Omnyama Biography, Albums, Songs - The Best Maskandi artist Ever". maskandi.co.za. Retrieved 2020-02-04.
  2. ^ Mojapelo, Max (2008). Beyond Memory: Recording the History, Moments and Memories of South African Music. African Minds. ISBN 9781920299286.
  3. ^ a b Themba wa Sepotokele (20 March 2001). "Maskandi muso Mfaz'Omnyama dies of cancer". iol.co.za.
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