Vusi Mahlasela - The Voice

(ATO Records)

Born in 1956, and brought up by his grandmother just outside Pretoria, South Africa, Vusi Mahlasela is known as 'The Voice' because of how he brought to life the sorrows and words of so many other South Africans during the Apartheid years. A skilled acoustic guitarist, and accomplished songwriter, Vusi's soft singing style sometimes hides the strength of his lyrics. He describes himself as a folk singer, but there is no mistaking the unique sound of township rhythms. Vusi seems to have transcended the huge leaps that have been made in music in SA since he became known as a protest singer/songwriter in the 1980s. His music still sounds fresh, original and inspiring.

Khunkhwane (clip)