Nearly two decades after the tragic passing of Tebogo “Tebza” Madingoane, the beloved former member of Mafikizolo, the Afro-pop group continues to feel the absence of the unique touch he brought to their music. Tebza’s contribution to the group was vital, particularly the distinct Kwaito element he infused into their sound, which was a defining aspect of their identity. Theo Kgosinkwe, one half of Mafikizolo, recently spoke to Daily Sun about the void left by his late bandmate and the group’s decision to honor his legacy by not replacing him.
Theo, now 51, recalled how Tebza would bring an undeniable energy to their performances, always excited and full of passion. “He was always the most excited before we performed, stretching in the corner like someone about to play a soccer match. That’s how passionate he was about music,” Theo shared. The loss of that “kwaito element” and the “pantsula vibe” that Tebza brought to their music is still keenly felt, but rather than attempt to fill his shoes, Mafikizolo has chosen to keep his memory alive by preserving his contributions. “We’ve decided not to replace him, so his name and contributions can live on forever,” said Theo.
Formed in the mid-1990s, Mafikizolo has navigated almost three decades in the music industry, consistently evolving while maintaining the essence of what made them one of South Africa’s most successful and beloved groups. From the era of cassettes to CDs and now to the digital age, Mafikizolo has reinvented itself with every shift in the music industry. Their ability to adapt to the changing times while staying true to their roots is a testament to the group’s resilience and lasting appeal.
Theo attributes the group’s continued success to their constant innovation and adaptability. “The success of Mafikizolo lies in our ability to innovate and sustain the brand. We’ve embraced different genres over the years, including the current dominance of amapiano,” he said. Their ability to evolve while keeping their sound fresh has allowed them to remain connected to audiences across generations, ensuring that their music continues to resonate with fans, both old and new. Theo also emphasized that Mafikizolo’s dedication to excellence in every aspect of their craft has played a key role in their sustained popularity.
Mafikizolo’s approach to their performances is another aspect of their success. Theo pointed out that the group carefully curates every element of their stage presence—from their choreography to their wardrobe choices. “We take our business very seriously. Even if we don’t release a new album, our catalogue of classic hits ensures we remain relevant,” he explained. Their commitment to creating memorable live shows and engaging with their audience has set them apart in a competitive industry.
In addition to their musical evolution, Mafikizolo has embraced the digital music landscape, adapting to the rise of streaming platforms and digital downloads. “When we started, cassettes were the thing, then came CDs. Now, it’s all about digital platforms,” Theo noted. The group has made sure their entire discography, from old hits to new releases, is available on streaming platforms, ensuring their music is easily accessible to fans worldwide. “We’re bringing our old music back to life, making it available for people to stream alongside our latest tracks,” said Theo, demonstrating the group’s commitment to staying relevant and connected to their audience in the digital era.
