Mandla Daniel Mofokeng, affectionately known as “Spikiri,” emerged from the vibrant streets of Meadowlands, Soweto, as a luminary in the realm of kwaito music. Born on September 11, 1967, his journey began as a dancer in 1985, mentored by the esteemed South African musician, Sello “Chicco” Twala.
Mandla Mofokeng
| Birth name | Mandla Daniel Mofokeng |
|---|---|
| Born | 11 September 1967 Meadowlands, Soweto, South Africa |
| Genres | Kwaito |
| Occupation(s) |
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| Years active | 1985–present |
| Labels | Kalawa Jazmee Records |
In 1988, Mofokeng, alongside his friend M’du Masilela, founded the disco group MM De Luxe, which catalyzed the evolution of township kwaito. Their collaboration yielded two groundbreaking albums in 1989 and 1990, laying the foundation for Mofokeng’s illustrious career. Fuelled by his passion for music, he pursued formal education at Fuba Music School in 1991, delving into engineering and piano studies.
Throughout the 1990s, Mofokeng’s prodigious talent as a producer flourished, shaping the soundscape of South African music. His collaborations with Chimora, Kamazu, Senyaka, and Fatty Boom Boom (Tsekeleke) resonated deeply within the industry. As a founding member of the iconic kwaito group Trompies, Mofokeng cemented his legacy, contributing to numerous genre-defining albums.
In addition to his role in Trompies, Mofokeng co-founded the influential record label Kalawa Jazzmee, a hub for burgeoning kwaito artists. His multifaceted contributions extend to the Dangerous Combination Crew (DCC), where he orchestrates musical masterpieces for renowned artists such as Brothers of Peace, Thebe, and Mafikizolo.
Music Career
Mofokeng’s solo endeavors underscore his versatility and innovation. His debut EP, “Skonkonyana,” released in 1998, marked the inception of his solo journey. This milestone paved the way for a prolific discography, including studio albums such as “King Don Father 2001,” “King Don Father 2002,” and “King Don Father Remixes Habashwe.” Each release showcased Mofokeng’s signature blend of infectious beats and lyrical prowess.
His accolades, including lifetime achievement awards at the Metro FM Awards in 2011 and the South African Music Awards in 2015, underscore his enduring impact on the music industry. In 2019, Mofokeng clinched the Best Kwaito award for his album “King Don Father 2018” at the Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards.
Discography
- Solo Albums:
- 2001: King Don Father 2001
- 2002: King Don Father 2002
- 2003: King Don Father Remixes Habashwe
- 2005: Simply The Best
- 2005: Ain’t Nothing But A Gangstas Party
- 2007: Chalibaba
- 2008: Trouble
- 2009: Taking a Walk on the Wild Side
- 2011: King Don Father 2.5
- 2018: King Don Father 2018
- EPs:
- 1998: Skonkonyana
Awards:
Mofokeng’s contributions have been celebrated with numerous awards, including the prestigious Best Kwaito award for “King Don Father 2018” and lifetime achievement honors at esteemed ceremonies like the Metro FM Awards and the South African Music Awards.
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