Professional Summary
Amaqaqa is an award-winning Imbube/Isicathamiya group based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Founded in 2018 by Khulekani Sibanda (stage name Khabo), the 8-member ensemble blends traditional African harmonies with powerful messages of spirituality, unity, love, and social change. With a mission to inspire, uplift, and promote positive values, Amaqaqa seeks to bridge cultural and generational divides through their unique fusion of gospel, social commentary, and Afrocentric music.
Rooted in the rich musical traditions of the Zulu people and influenced by the historic harmonies of mine workers from the 1930s, Amaqaqa’s sound reflects a modern interpretation of Imbube and Isicathamiya music. The group’s performances are defined by soaring vocal harmonies, rhythmic precision, and the incorporation of traditional instruments, including the symbolic knobkerries, which represent strength and cultural pride in their Ndebele heritage.
Amaqaqa has achieved significant success both locally and internationally, with three critically acclaimed albums and several chart-topping singles. Their music has resonated with audiences across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Botswana, and they have received multiple prestigious awards, including the Roil Bulawayo Arts Award and the Zimbabwe Music Award. Known for their engaging live performances, Amaqaqa has graced renowned stages such as the Bulawayo Theatre, Victoria Falls Chinotimba Hall, Hillbrow Theatre in South Africa, and the Gabs Isintu Festival in Botswana.
With a vision to expand their global reach, Amaqaqa continues to deliver music that entertains and empowers, staying true to their values of creativity, integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity. The group is actively seeking partnerships and sponsorships to support their journey of spreading messages of peace, unity, and spiritual growth worldwide. Through their music, Amaqaqa aims to inspire individuals from all walks of life and connect cultures across the globe.
Group Biography
Amaqaqa is an acclaimed Imbube/Isicathamiya ensemble based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Founded in 2018, the 8-member group has quickly garnered attention for its captivating performances and unique sound, blending traditional African harmonies with contemporary rhythms and powerful storytelling. The group consists of Khulekani Sibanda (Lead Vocalist), Mlondolozi Dube, Mohau Sibanda, Mandla Sibanda, Madodana Dlodlo, Njabulo Moyo, Stanley Mpofu, and Jabulani Nyathi.
The name Amaqaqa derives from the Ndebele word for “those who climb a mountain,” symbolizing resilience, strength, and the group’s collective journey toward success. This powerful metaphor encapsulates the group’s dedication to their craft and their ambition to elevate African music on the global stage.
The genesis of Amaqaqa can be traced to Khulekani Sibanda, the founder and leader, whose deep connection to Imbube music dates back to 2004. Over the years, Khulekani has been involved with several notable groups, including Imvuselelo, Flaming Arrows, Ilinqe Elimnyama, and Insika Yesizwe. Despite experiencing success with these groups, Khulekani faced economic challenges that led to their disbanding. In 2017, after a period of personal reflection, Khulekani left the acclaimed Impumelelo Shining Stars (now Indosakusa the Morning Star) due to artistic differences.
Following his departure, Khulekani relocated to South Africa, where he joined Izinkanyezi ZeZulu. Though he honed his musical abilities, he felt a spiritual void in his artistic journey. In a pivotal moment, a conversation with a close friend led to the inspiration to form his own group. Khulekani returned to Zimbabwe, where he experienced what he describes as a divine revelation—a voice guiding him to create Amaqaqa, with the symbol of the knobkerrie as a representation of strength, heritage, and triumph.
Amaqaqa’s music is deeply influenced by the Zulu musical traditions of Imbube and Isicathamiya, genres that gained prominence in Southern Africa’s mining communities in the 1930s. These early male choruses used song as a means of cultural expression, creating a sound rooted in tradition and community. Amaqaqa continues this legacy, blending these classic styles with contemporary rhythms to produce a sound that is both timeless and innovative. Their music explores themes of love, unity, spirituality, and social transformation, resonating deeply with a wide range of listeners.
Since its formation, Amaqaqa has released three successful albums, with several singles charting in Zimbabwe and neighboring countries. The group has performed at prestigious venues such as the Bulawayo Theatre, Victoria Falls Chinotimba Hall, Hillbrow Theatre in South Africa, and the Gabs Isintu Festival in Botswana. Their exceptional work has earned them multiple awards, including the Roil Bulawayo Arts Award, Zimbabwe Community news Award and the Zimbabwe Music Award.
In addition to their musical achievements, Amaqaqa is committed to using their platform for positive change. Their mission is to spread messages of peace, unity, love, and spiritual growth while honoring their cultural heritage. They actively participate in community initiatives, mentoring young artists and encouraging social development in Bulawayo.
Amaqaqa is currently preparing to release their highly anticipated fourth album in 2024. The group is focused on expanding their international presence with plans to tour across Africa, Europe, and the Americas, and is exploring exciting collaborations with artists from diverse genres. As they continue to evolve artistically, Amaqaqa remains dedicated to their mission of inspiring and uplifting audiences worldwide through music.
Artistic Style and Mediums
Musical Style and Sound
At the core of Amaqaqa’s musical identity is the genre of Imbube, a male vocal harmony tradition that emerged in the mining communities of Southern Africa in the 1930s. Known for its intricate layered vocals, rhythmic clapping, and stomping, Imbube creates an immersive, uplifting experience that resonates deeply with listeners. Amaqaqa enhances this traditional style by integrating Isicathamiya, a softer and more melodic vocal approach popularized by the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This blend of smoother harmonies and rhythmic swaying results in a dynamic, soulful sound that reflects both the roots of the genre and contemporary influences.
In addition to these traditional genres, Amaqaqa’s music is infused with elements of gospel, weaving spiritual themes of hope, unity, and empowerment into their lyrics. The group’s sound creates a unique fusion of emotional storytelling, powerful vocal arrangements, and contemporary African beats, making it accessible and relevant to global audiences.
Captivating Rhythms of Africa
“Captivating Rhythms of Africa” represents a distinctive fusion of traditional African sounds with contemporary musical elements, designed to evoke powerful emotions while celebrating cultural heritage. This blend incorporates the resonant beats of the Djembe drum, the soulful melodies of the saxophone, the intricate strums of the guitar, and the precision of acapella harmonies. By infusing their own creative approach to these traditional instruments, Amaqaqa has developed a fresh sound that honors African musical traditions while introducing a modern twist.
The group’s upcoming release, Captivating Rhythms of Africa, set to debut on December 22, marks a bold step in Amaqaqa’s artistic evolution. This project aims to introduce the innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds to a global audience, expanding their fan base and furthering their mission to connect deeply with listeners worldwide.
Lyricism and Themes
Amaqaqa’s lyrics address universal themes of love, spiritual growth, social justice, and cultural pride. Their music is deeply rooted in storytelling, offering reflections on both personal and collective experiences. Their songs explore the challenges, triumphs, and shared realities of everyday life, fostering a sense of introspection and emotional connection. Through their music, Amaqaqa seeks to create an environment of peace, empowerment, and healing, resonating deeply with listeners who find solace and affirmation in their messages.
“We believe our music must speak directly to people’s hearts,” says Khulekani Sibanda, the group’s founder. “Whether singing traditional songs or gospel-inspired tracks, we connect with the universal experiences of our listeners. When people hear our music, we want them to feel that it reflects their own journey.”
Live Performances and Stage Presence
Amaqaqa’s live performances are renowned for their high-energy stage presence, dynamic choreography, and compelling storytelling. Each show is a celebration of music and culture, where the group seamlessly blends traditional African dance movements with modern choreography, creating performances that are accessible to a wide range of audiences—from those familiar with traditional African sounds to younger listeners drawn to contemporary rhythms.
A standout feature of Amaqaqa’s live performances is their use of the knobkerrie, a traditional Ndebele walking stick that symbolizes strength, victory, and resilience. The knobkerrie has become an iconic emblem for the group, reinforcing their connection to their cultural heritage while underscoring their message of empowerment and unity.
Cultural Identity and Innovation
While firmly rooted in tradition, Amaqaqa is committed to pushing the boundaries of the Imbube genre, constantly evolving their sound and artistic vision. The group regularly innovates by combining classic Imbube styles with modern influences to create something uniquely their own. One notable aspect of their performances is their ever-evolving stage wardrobe. With each performance, Amaqaqa introduces new costumes that blend traditional African designs with contemporary fashion, ensuring that their shows remain visually exciting and fresh. This commitment to creativity, both musically and visually, ensures that every Amaqaqa performance is a memorable experience that captivates audiences.
“We want our audience to be inspired not only by the music but by the visual and sonic experience of our shows,” says Khulekani. “Each performance is an opportunity for us to innovate, celebrate our culture, and present Imbube in a new light.”
Visual and Artistic Elements
Amaqaqa places great emphasis on the visual elements of their work, with their album artwork, promotional materials, and music videos reflecting their cultural heritage. The vibrant colors, African motifs, and symbols featured in their visuals evoke pride in both Ndebele and Zulu traditions. The knobkerrie, a symbol of Ndebele identity and strength, is prominently featured in their music videos, photoshoots, and promotional materials, reinforcing the connection between their music and cultural roots.
Why Partner with Amaqaqa?
Amaqaqa is a group that thrives on creativity, innovation, and cultural pride. Their ability to blend traditional African music with contemporary sounds, coupled with their strong stage presence and commitment to excellence, makes them an ideal partner for event organizers, sponsors, and brands seeking to connect with diverse and engaged audiences. Whether performing at prestigious festivals, corporate events, or cultural gatherings, Amaqaqa delivers a compelling and unforgettable experience.
By partnering with Amaqaqa, brands have the opportunity to align with a group that celebrates cultural diversity, promotes unity and empowerment, and is dedicated to bringing African music to the global stage. With their innovative approach to music and performance, Amaqaqa offers an unparalleled platform for connecting with audiences across the world.
Notable Works and Projects
“Isiphofu seJericho” (2020)
Amaqaqa’s debut album, which masterfully blends traditional Imbube with gospel influences. Recognized as one of the top gospel albums of the year in Zimbabwe, it earned a nomination for Best Gospel Album at the prestigious Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards.
“Thulisani Umntwana Uyakhala” (2022)
A powerful collection of Imbube and gospel ballads, highlighted by the hit single Thulisani, which dominated Zimbabwean radio charts for over six months, earning widespread acclaim across Southern Africa.
“Knobkerries” Music Video (2023)
A visually captivating music video that blends cultural symbolism with contemporary performance styles. Within the first month of release, it garnered over 500,000 views, establishing Amaqaqa as a rising force in the global music scene.
Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards (2022)
Amaqaqa received multiple accolades, including Best Imbube Group of the Year and Best Gospel Album, recognizing their artistic excellence and cultural impact within the Zimbabwean music industry.
Isintu Festival, Botswana (2023)
Amaqaqa’s performance at the Isintu Festival in Gaborone marked a significant milestone in their international exposure, introducing their unique fusion of Imbube and gospel music to new audiences across Southern Africa.
Southern Africa Tour (2023)
A successful, sold-out tour across South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, further solidifying Amaqaqa’s growing fan base and cultural influence in the region.
Featured in The African Beat Magazine (2023)
Recognized as one of the top emerging acts in African music, Amaqaqa’s unique sound and impact were highlighted in The African Beat Magazine’s annual feature of promising new artists.
Key Performances
Miombo Magic Festival (Mazoe, Harare, 2024)
Amaqaqa performed at the prestigious Miombo Magic Festival, one of the largest and most celebrated cultural festivals in the region. Sharing the stage with top African acts such as Mukkomba Brothers, Suluman Chimbetu, and Gemma Griffiths, this performance was an exciting opportunity to present their unique sound to a diverse and enthusiastic audience.
Zimbabwe Music Academy Concert (Harare, 2022)
A sold-out performance at the renowned Zimbabwe Music Academy, where Amaqaqa showcased their signature blend of Imbube, Isicathamiya, and gospel music. The performance was lauded for its dynamic energy, vocal precision, and cultural richness, captivating a diverse audience.
Isintu Festival (Gaborone, Botswana, 2023)
Amaqaqa’s international debut at the Isintu Festival in Botswana was a major highlight of their 2023 tour. Their performance, a fusion of Ndebele and Zulu cultural influences with modern rhythms, was met with a resounding reception, cementing their place as one of the leading voices in Southern African music.
Victoria Falls Chinotimba Hall Concert (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, 2023)
A memorable and emotive performance at the iconic Chinotimba Hall in Victoria Falls, where Amaqaqa connected deeply with an audience of over 1,000 people. This performance was part of their ongoing series of local shows and highlighted the group’s ability to evoke powerful emotional responses through their music.
Hillbrow Theatre (Johannesburg, South Africa, 2023)
Performing at the Hillbrow Theatre in Johannesburg, Amaqaqa marked a significant milestone in their international journey. Their performance in South Africa was a key moment in expanding their fan base and showcased their energetic stage presence, cultural pride, and innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary African sounds.
Emalahleni Civic Theatre (Emalahleni, South Africa, 2023)
A high-energy performance that celebrated African culture, music, and unity, Amaqaqa’s show at Emalahleni Civic Theatre received acclaim for its innovative approach to Imbube music, blending classic harmonies with contemporary rhythms and creating a distinctive sound that resonated with a diverse audience.
Bulawayo Theatre (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 2022)
Aamaqaqa’s homecoming concert at the Bulawayo Theatre was a heartfelt performance that fused the group’s most beloved hits with new material from their upcoming album. The performance, filled with symbolic visuals such as the knobkerrie, celebrated the group’s Ndebele heritage and resonated with the local community.
The Great Zimbabwe Music Festival (Masvingo, Zimbabwe, 2023)
As a key performance at the Great Zimbabwe Music Festival, Amaqaqa’s show was a celebration of Zimbabwe’s diverse musical heritage. Their ability to combine traditional sounds with modern African rhythms made them a standout act, with the group drawing significant attention and praise.
Chitungwiza Arts Centre (Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, 2024)
Amaqaqa performed to a packed audience at the Chitungwiza Arts Centre, where they delivered a more intimate performance, showcasing their vocal precision and harmonies in an acoustic setting that emphasized the depth of their musical artistry.
Emasiko Festival (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 2023)
Invited as one of the headliners at the Emasiko Festival, Amaqaqa’s performance was a highlight of this annual celebration of Zimbabwean music. Their fusion of powerful vocals, traditional dance, and a celebration of both Ndebele and Zulu cultures was a crowd favorite, marking another milestone in their artistic journey.
Noteworthy Exhibitions and Cultural Events
African Cultural Showcase (Johannesburg, South Africa, 2023)
Amaqaqa was honored to perform at the esteemed African Cultural Showcase, a traveling exhibition dedicated to celebrating African music, dance, and art. Their performance not only showcased their musical prowess but also highlighted their deep cultural heritage, incorporating traditional Ndebele symbols, such as the knobkerrie, into their presentation, thus enhancing the cultural significance of their performance.
Cultural Exchange Exhibition (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 2023)
As part of a cultural exchange exhibition, Amaqaqa joined other prominent African groups to celebrate the continent’s rich musical traditions. Their performance, centered around themes of unity, love, and peace, captivated attendees and highlighted the group’s ability to bridge cultural gaps through the power of music.
National Heritage Day Celebration (Harare, Zimbabwe, 2022)
On National Heritage Day, Amaqaqa performed in celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Their vibrant performance, infused with powerful rhythms and messages of cultural pride, resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing their role as ambassadors of Zimbabwean and African traditions.
Gospel Music Festival (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, 2023)
Amaqaqa graced the stage at the Gospel Music Festival, performing alongside renowned gospel artists from across Zimbabwe. Their unique blend of traditional Imbube and gospel influences earned them widespread praise for their emotionally charged and spiritually uplifting performance, winning them new fans and further solidifying their place in Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene.
Upcoming Performances
European Tour (2024)
Amaqaqa is set to perform across major cities in Europe, including London, Berlin, and Paris, as part of their effort to bring African sounds to a global audience. This marks the group’s first major international tour outside of Africa.
The African Music Expo (Cape Town, South Africa, 2024)
Scheduled to perform at one of Africa’s largest music expos, where they will be sharing the stage with other prominent African artists. Amaqaqa will be presenting new material from their upcoming album and showcasing their unique sound to an international music industry audience.
Press and Media Features
Featured in Top Publications:
The Herald Zimbabwe – “Amaqaqa blends Zimbabwean tradition with a modern sound that’s taking Africa by storm.”
MusicInAfrica.com – “Amaqaqa is a rising force in African music, blending Imbube with gospel and contemporary rhythms.”
Radio and TV Appearances:
Interviewed on ZBC TV’s Morning Live to discuss the cultural significance of their music (2023).
Live performance on Metro FM South Africa, showcasing their new album Imbube Revival (2023).
Music Reviews:
Sunday Times – “Amaqaqa’s live performances bring a new, exciting energy to African music.”
SABC News – “Amaqaqa is at the forefront of a movement blending gospel and traditional African harmonies, leading the resurgence of Imbube music.”
Press links
- https://bmetro.co.zw/amaqaqa-announce-title-release-date-for-their-third-album/#
- http://chronicle.co.zw/
- https://www.voandebele.com/
- https://bmetro.co.zw/
- https://www.herald.co.zw/
- http://impisitv.co.za/
- https://www.impisitv.co.za/
- https://www.facebook.com/skyzmetrofm/videos/857743156292254/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v
Collaborations and Partnerships
Rob Burrell (Mann Friday) – “Trees”
MAZULA Music – “Imbube”
Jeys Marabini – “UThixo Wezimanga”
Adoe Music – “African Queen”
Queen Salima – “Nyawo Lwami”
Amaqaqa has also had the privilege of sharing the stage with notable artists such as the Mukkomba Brothers, Gemma Griffiths, Hope Masike, and Suluman Chimbetu, among others.
Brand Partnerships:
Pepsi – Sponsored the group’s national tour in 2022.
Gracious Driving School – promotional campaigns nationally
Creatives Magazine – Media coverage
Festival Partnerships:
Isintu Festival (Gaborone, Botswana) – Headlined alongside international artists.
Miombo Magic Festival (Harare, Zimbabwe) – Featured in a performance alongside top regional artists.
Media Collaborations:
Music in Africa has been instrumental in promoting African artists, helping to elevate them to an international platform.
Isigiya Ngamasiko and Asakhane played a key role in supporting our 2022 live show at the Bulawayo Theater.
Additionally, the I Podcast Yabantu streamed our performance at the Victory Theater in South Africa
.Community Partnerships:
UNICEF Zimbabwe – Collaboration to raise awareness on child rights and education.
Save the Children – Charity concert to support rural education programs in Zimbabwe.
Educational Collaborations:
University of Zimbabwe – Hosted workshops on Imbube and Isicathamiya music for students.
Cultural Exchange Program with University of Cape Town – Partnered with students for a project on African folk music.
Our Music Across Platforms
Explore and listen to Amaqaqa’s music on the following platforms:
- Amazon Music
- Spotify – Album 1
- Spotify – Album 2
- Apple Music
- TikTok
- Facebook – General Page
- Facebook – Amaqaqa Official
- TikTok – Amaqaqa Rhythm Collective
Stay connected and enjoy our music across these platforms!
Contact Information
For Booking Inquiries, Press & Media Inquiries, Social Media & Fan Engagement, or General Inquiries, please reach out to us through the following:
Khulekani Sibanda: +263 77 190 3259 or Sibangilizwe Malinga: +263 77 528 4591
Email:
Alternatively, you can connect with us via direct message on our social media platforms.
https://www.facebook.com/AMAQAQA2018?mibextid=ZbWKwL
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqgf0gyO2YOI2DfoPS8rg3g
Profile Written by Sithokozile Sibanda
Sithokozile Sibanda is a multi-award-winning Arts Journalist, Artist Manager, and the Founder of Creatives Magazine, a recognized and award-winning brand in the creative industry. With a deep passion for the arts and a discerning eye for emerging talent, she has solidified her reputation as a leading advocate for artists and cultural development. Through her work, Sithokozile is dedicated to promoting and empowering artists, providing strategic management and insightful commentary to help them navigate and excel in the dynamic and competitive creative landscape.
Email:sibandas2308@gmail.com
Cell: +263 773 248 538
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