Harari

The Beaters formed in 1965 and became Harari in 1976, when they made a decision to create a mix of African and black American music, in part influenced by a shift towards a black consciousness philosophy. Harari became a very successful disco-funk fusion band.

They had a big hit with “Party” off the equally successful Heatwave album in 1980.

They released their final studio album Bad Boys in 1986. Their most successful line-up (late 70s until 1981) was: Sipho Mabuse on drums, Alec Khaoli on bass, Oupa Segwai and Branny Ledwaba on percussion, Thelma Segonah on keyboards, Masike Mohape on lead guitar, Eddie Manda on guitar.

Kabasa

Formed in Johannesburg in 1980 when Oupa Segwai and Doc Mthalane left Harari to set up a new band. The line-up was Oupa Segwai (vocals, percussion), Doc Mthalane (vocals, guitar), Tata Sibeko (vocals, bass), Madoda Malotana (vocals, keyboard) and Johnny Motuba (drums).

They released three albums in quick succession: Kabasa (1980), Searching (1981) and African Sunset (1982). Singles off the albums included “Uzozibona” (1980), “Afro Funkin’” (1980), “Happy Together” (1980) and “Searchin’” (1981).