By Lungani Zungu
World-acclaimed legend and multi-award-winning artist Mbongeni Ngema left the crowd begging for more after dazzling them with his timeless hits.
Ngema, fondly known by his clan name, Madlokovu, got the packed Durban’s Playhouse dancing and singing along to his popular hits on Saturday including his 1997 “Woza Mayifhloza” and “Stimela Sami SaseZola”.
Originally a composer and playwright, Ngema’s triumphs include Woza Albert, Asinamali and most famous of all, the musical Sarafina!. He wrote the screenplay for the 1992 film version of his stage musical, which gave birth to artists like Somozi Mhlongo and actress Sindi Dlathu, well-known as
Thandaza Mokoena on Muvhango — and now as Lindiwe Dlamini-Dikana on Mzansi Magic’s telenovela The River.
When Ngema ended his awe-inspiring performance, the shouts of “We Want More!” reverberated in the venue.
Sweating and gasping, the 67-year-old performer and his band were forced to continue with their performance.
Satisfied, most of the crowd stood and clapped while Mbongeni and his band sang “The Lord’s Prayer”.
People came from afar, including from Joburg, about 580 km away, to see Ngema perform.
Karabo Dlamini from Protea Glen in Soweto told Scrolla.Africa: “This is just what I needed to kick-start my festive season. My day was made right the moment when Mbongeni Ngema performed “Stimela Sami SaseZola”. I love that tune,”
Others were emotional when Ngema talked about the poor plight of South Africans.
“I nearly cried when he asked what the government is doing about the unemployment and poverty facing many people in the country,” a music lover said
Pictured above: Mbongeni Ngema on stage
Image source: Durban Playhouse
