Mbuso Khoza (born 20 July 1978) is a South African singer, actor, and producer best known for his Afro-jazz style infused with traditional Zulu music, Amahubo.
Khoza portrayed Nokubonga’s father, Maphalala, in the series Umkhokha and also contributed to the Umkhokha: The Curse soundtrack album Wonk’ AmaJudiya, composing, arranging, and performing several tracks.
| Mbuso Khoza | |
|---|---|
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| Quick Facts | |
| Full name: | Mbuso Khoza |
| Born: | 20 July 1978 (age 47 years old) |
| Place of birth: | Eshowe, Zululand |
| Nationality: | South African |
| Occupation: | Singer, actor, producer |
| Genre: | Amahubo Afro-jazz |
| Instrument: | Vocals |
| Children: | Alinde (daughter) |
Early Life
Mbuso Khoza was born on 20 July 1978 in Eshowe, the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
His musical journey began in childhood, shaped by a strong connection to his Zulu roots. He carries a deep passion for storytelling through music.
Career
Khoza is regarded as a musical innovator, celebrated for his Afro-jazz sound and his mastery of Amahubo. His songwriting resonates with people from diverse backgrounds because it draws from everyday human experiences.
Performing primarily in his mother tongue, isiZulu, he has graced many prominent stages. His work reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding and honoring African musical heritage.
Over the years, he has collaborated with well-established musicians and invested time in nurturing emerging talent.
In November 2023, he released the album Ifa Lomkhono, produced by Nduduzo Makhathini. Khoza has been nominated for Best Jazz Album at the Metro FM Music Awards. He continues to travel internationally for cultural performances and events.
Beyond his music career, Khoza is a cultural ambassador and educator, promoting African heritage both locally and internationally. He also works as a cultural practitioner, actor, and theatre producer.
Khoza is also a regular contributor to Ukhozi FM’s mid-morning show Jabulujule. In his hometown, he is establishing Mbuso Khoza’s Institute, an institution dedicated to teaching culture and heritage.
He contributed to behind-the-scenes work on the series Shaka: Ilembe and portrayed Maphalala in the telenovela Umkhokha: The Curse.
His involvement also extends to the Ikhaya Lamajudiya Umkhokha The Curse album and other soundtracks for the series. He composed, arranged, and performed many tracks for the Umkhokha: The Curse album Wonk’ AmaJudiya.
On Saturday, 20 July 2024, Khoza launched his podcast at Alou Lifestyle in Eshowe, an idea inspired by public encouragement following his appearance on The Penuel Show.
Personal Life
Mbuso Khoza has a daughter named Alinde, who played a crucial role in saving his life during a period in 2018 when he nearly attempted suicide. He had been living with depression and anxiety for more than 30 years.
The legendary actor also survived an accident in eThekwini, where a vehicle struck him and fled while he was on his way to a filming session. He was once living under a bridge in Newtown.
Discography
Songs
- Ungowamakhosi
- Njomane
- Zulu Eliphezulu
- Yoliswa
- Uthando
- Thixo Mkhululi
- Boy to Man Theme
- Ngiyalithanda Ngokulizwa
- Khethani Amagwala
- Wonke AmaNazaretha
- Kuyabanda Ngaphandle
- Ucu
- Mehlo Abonayo
- Ezaba Thethwa
- Ndwandwe Funeral Theme
- Amashoba
- Nkosi Nkosi Busisiwe
- Mayoyo
- Endayini
- Umgqigqo
- Alinde
- Bongani uJehova
- Ilanga Emini
- Hebuya Zwide
- Sibiziwe
- Enqabeni
- Cosu Cosu
- Wezwa Ngobani
- A Memory of Tuku
- Qubula
- Nabaya
- Umthemelezo
Albums
- Abasemkhathini Vol – I (2022)
- Huba MNAZARETHA (2015, EP)
- Shaka iLembe Soundtrack Album, Vol. 2 (2023)
- Ifa Lomkhono (2023)
References
- Jabulani Langa. “Ladies House unites for Mbuso Khoza’s return!“. Daily Sun.
- Philani-Mzila. “Actor Mbuso Khoza leaves Umkhokha: The Curse to focus on his podcast“. Zimoja.
- https://ropeadope.com/mbusokhoza
- Mbalenhle Zuma. “Indigenous knowledge is Mbuso Khoza’s source of inspiration“. Sunday World.
- Jabulani Langa. “Mbuso Khoza delves deep on his birthday“. Daily Sun.
- Constance Gaanakgomo. “Mbuso Khoza reclaims role in Umkhokha: The Curse with feuds and fiery conflicts“. News24.
- Kedibone Modise. “Mbuso Khoza thanks 9-year-old daughter for saving his life during ‘major depressive episode’“. IOL.
- Kaya 959 Reporter. “’I’ve been getting threatening messages.’ Mbuso Khoza survives a suspicious car accident“. Kaya 959.
- Anele Geqiwe. “Mbuso Khoza is a gem—our heritage and music live in him“. GQ.
