Vusi Ximba

Despite limited radio airplay, due to his outspoken lyrics, Vusi Ximba's music has been embraced by the black townships of South Africa. Known for his sharp sense of humor and comical tunes, Ximba continues to masterfully combine the concertina tradition of South Africa with a mixture of Zulu pop and Maskanda (Zulu rap). A native of Mandeni, a small village on the northern coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Ximba launched his career in the 1970s when his performances included humorous skits his with female dancers. Ximba's debut solo album, Siyakudumisa, released in 1992, sold more than 100,000 copies. He recorded his 1998 album, Umthandazi Ejoyintini, with bass player/producer Maxwell Mngadi. ~ Craig Harris