Freshlyground

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About Freshlyground

Few South African acts have enjoyed the level of crossover success as Mzansi’s Freshlyground. Made up of Zolani Mahola (vocals), Peter Cohen (drums), Josh Hawks (bass), Simon Attwell (saxophone), Julio Sigauque (electric guitar) and Christian Bakalanga (electric guitar), this six-piece are often compared to the likes of Mango Groove or Johnny Clegg & Juluka—hailing from South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, they brew up an exuberant mix of feel-good, folk-inspired anthems. The group’s light, playful 2005 breakout hit “Do Be Doo” is one of the most recognisable local songs of all time, and became the most-played song on local radio in that year. Known for their energetic live performances led by the vivacious Mahola, to date they’ve rocked everything from Radio City Music Hall to 2010’s FIFA World Cup opening ceremony. However, it’s not just the fans—including Barack Obama, who has cited them as “an example of what South Africa has given the world”—who adore them. Over the years the band have amassed armloads of industry awards—including nods from the SAMAs, Channel O, Metro FM and MTV Europe.

ORIGIN
South Africa
FORMED
2002
GENRE
Pop

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