Songs by South African artists on the UK and USA Top 100 singles charts

With Tyla’s ‘Water’ making it into the US charts, going viral on social media, and being awarded a Grammy, there has been some discussion in the media about previous songs by SA artists making the US charts. There haven’t been many, and there have been a few more that have made the UK charts. We decided to research the US Billboard and UK top 100 charts and put together a mixtape of songs which have charted in either country. They appear in the chronological order in which they charted. The list below indicates the peak position of each song, and the date on which it reached that position.

Interestingly there are no songs which appeared on both the USA and UK charts. In fact there isn’t even a single South African artist who has charted in both charts. One song charted twice on the UK top 100: ‘Scatterlings Of Africa’ – first the Juluka version, and four years later the Savuka version.

The mixtape selection is restricted to South African musicians and groups who are regarded as wholly South African (for example, this does not include songs by Manfred Mann who only began his musical career once he had emigrated to the UK, Yes when Trevor Rabin was a member, or Freshlyground doing a collaborative song with Shakira, and so on). Collaborations of those sorts can be a focus for a future mixtape!

Some of these are probably very familiar to you, and others you might have hardly ever heard at all. Give them a listen and enjoy!

  1. Pata PataMiriam Makeba no 12 on 25 November 1967 (USA)
  2. Up Up And AwayHugh Masekela No 71 on 13 and 20 January 1968 (USA)
  3. Master Jack – Four Jacks And A Jill No 18 on 8 June 1968 (USA)
  4. Grazing In The GrassHugh Masekela No 1 on 20 July 1968 (USA)
  5. Puffin On Down The TrackHugh Masekela no 71 on 19 October 1968 (USA)
  6. RiotHugh Masekela No 55 on 8 and 15 February 1969 (USA)
  7. He’s Gonna Step On You AgainJohn Kongos No 4 on 22 May 1971 (UK)
  8. Tokoloshe ManJohn Kongos No 4 on 20 November 1971 (UK)
  9. SubstituteClout No 2 17 June 1978 (UK)
  10. Scatterlings Of AfricaJuluka No 44 on 5 Feb 1983 (UK)
  11. She’s The Master (of the game) – Richard Jon Smith No 63 16 July 1983 (UK)
  12. ImpiJuluka No 87 on 6 August 1983 (UK)
  13. The ABC Of Kissing – Richard Jon Smith No 77 on 30 March 1985 (UK)
  14. Scatterlings Of AfricaSavuka No 75 on May 10 1987 (UK)
  15. LiesJonathan Butler No 18 on 1 August 1987 (UK)
  16. Holding OnJonathan Butler No 92 on 24 October 1987 (UK)
  17. AsimbonangaSavuka No 94 on January 24 1988 (UK)
  18. Take Good Care Of MeJonathan Butler No 89 on 13 February 1988 (UK)
  19. Cruel, Crazy, Beautiful WorldSavuka No 86 February 4 1990 (UK)
  20. World In Union ’95PJ Powers & Ladysmith Black Mambazo No 47 3 June 1995 (UK)
  21. Inkanyezi Nezazi (The Star And The Wiseman) – Ladysmith Mambazo No 33 15 November 1997 (UK)
  22. Ain’t No SunshineLadysmith Black Mambazo No 42 16 October 1999 (UK)
  23. Broken – Seether No 20 in 2004 (USA)
  24. When You Come Back 2010Vusi Mahlasela No 70 on 10 July 2010 (UK)
  25. Water – Tyla No 10 on November 28 2023 (USA)

Sunny African Summer

Well, it’s been a while since our last mixtape, but the South African sun has emerged from a reclusive winter, beckoning us to compile a shiny, happy, compilation. So we decided to do something that celebrates the returning South African summer. We might have loadshedding, inflation, corruption, potholes and pot-bellied politicians, but at least we have the sun. And we can dance. As Harari sing, “In the summertime, everybody should be dancing.”

This mixtape is scattered with happy upbeat tunes, kicking off with Robin Auld’s tribute to James Phillips, “Sunny Skies”, a great way to get us up and jiving, followed by similarly buoyant songs by Bright Blue (“Living in Africa”), eVoid’s (“Under blue skies”) and Nude Red’s “Seaside Dreams”. Things turn a bit funkier with Phillip Mallela’s “Sunny Day”, Clout’s “Sunshine Baby”, Harari’s “In The Summertime” and Kabasa’s “African sunset”.

South African summers would not be the same without some Dollar Brand/Abdullah Ibrahim, and his “African Sun” reminds us why. Miriam Makeba sings “African Sunset”, not related to Kabasa’s tune, but written by Sipho Mabuse. Apart from enjoying summery tunes, we also pause for a moment to remember Zahara, who died this week. Her “Brighter Day” fits very well with the theme of this mixtape.

Vusi Mahlasela’s “Africa The Sun Has Risen’ is hopeful that apart from getting brighter, things will get better. Here’s hoping! Hugh Masekela and Herb Alpert join forces to celebrate the “African Summer”, while Juluka sing their somewhat anthemic “December African Rain” which made a lot of us feel better about things forty years ago.

The mixtape ends with an assortment of sun-referenced songs, from Chris Letcher’s “The Sun! The Sun!” to “Happy Person” by the aptly named, The Sunshines, and McCully Workshop’s “(We All) Look For The Sun” and “Summer Journey” by the Soweto Licks.

Finally, Johannes Kerkorrel plays out on a very relaxed note announcing the arrival of the summer sun. Wherever you are – in the South or the North – turn up the volume and enjoy!

  1. Sunny Skies – Robin Auld
  2. Living In Africa – Bright Blue
  3. Under Blue Skies – eVoid
  4. Seaside Dreams – Nude Red
  5. Sunny Day – Phillip Mallela
  6. Sunshine Baby – Clout
  7. In The Summertime – Harari
  8. African Sunset – Kabasa
  9. African Sun – Dollar Brand
  10. African Sunset – Miriam Makeba
  11. Brighter Day – Zahara
  12. Africa The Sun Has Risen – Vusi Mahlasela
  13. African Summer – Hugh Masekela & Herp Albert
  14. December African Rain – Juluka
  15. Perfect Day – Robin Levetan
  16. The Sun! The Sun! – Chris Letcher
  17. Happy Person – The Sunshines
  18. (We All) Look For The Sun – McCully Workshop
  19. Summer Journey – Soweto Licks
  20. Somer – Johannes Kerkorrel

Golden Sounds of the ’60s: South African Gems

Embark on a journey through the rich and diverse musical landscape of South Africa in the 1960s with this carefully curated compilation of 12 tracks. This era saw an incredible fusion of traditional and modern musical styles, showcasing the exceptional talents of South African musicians across various genres.

  1. Miriam Makeba – “The Click Song (Qongqothwane)”
    Affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” Miriam Makeba embodied hope and resistance against apartheid. “The Click Song (Qongqothwane)” showcases her vocal prowess, blending her native Xhosa language with an infectious Afro-pop sound that resonated with people worldwide.
  2. Chris McGregor’s Brotherhood of Breath – “MRA”
    Chris McGregor’s Brotherhood of Breath was a leading force in South African jazz, fusing African rhythms with avant-garde influences. Their lively improvisations in “MRA” pushed musical boundaries and contributed to a unique sound that remains influential today.
  3. The Flames – “For Your Precious Love”
    The Flames captivated audiences with their soulful harmonies and heartfelt renditions of popular songs. “For Your Precious Love” highlights their emotive vocals and the impact of American soul and R&B on South African musicians during this era.
  4. Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand) – “Tintinyana”
    Cape Jazz maestro Abdullah Ibrahim, formerly known as Dollar Brand, combined African rhythms with jazz piano to create a distinctive sound. “Tintinyana” exemplifies this unique fusion, which continues to inspire musicians across generations.
  5. The A-Cads – “Down the Road”
    As one of the first South African bands to embrace rock music, The A-Cads drew inspiration from British and American rock bands of the era. Their lively track “Down the Road” captures the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll in 1960s South Africa.
  6. Spokes Mashiyane – “Banana Ba Rustenburg”
    Pennywhistle virtuoso Spokes Mashiyane pioneered the playful kwela genre. His skillful playing on “Banana Ba Rustenburg” showcases the joyous spirit and danceable rhythms that define kwela music, which remains a beloved South African tradition.
  7. The Invaders – “Shockwave”
    South African surf rock band The Invaders brought the energetic sounds of the California coast to their homeland. Their instrumental track “Shockwave” highlights the band’s skillful guitar work and demonstrates the global influence of surf rock during the 1960s.
  8. Letta Mbulu – “Hareje”
    Jazz singer Letta Mbulu began her career in the 1960s, enchanting listeners with her powerful voice and fusion of African and jazz elements. “Hareje” exemplifies her emotive singing and the rich musical tapestry of South Africa during this time.
  9. West Nkosi – “Mazuzu”
    Saxophonist, composer, and producer West Nkosi played a significant role in popularizing mbaqanga and jive music. His lively saxophone playing and infectious dance rhythms in “Mazuzu” showcase the energy and excitement of South African music during the 1960s.
  10. Winston “Mankunku” Ngozi – “Yakhal’ Inkomo”
    Renowned South African saxophonist Winston “Mankunku” Ngozi left a lasting impact on the country’s jazz scene with his emotive playing and soulful compositions. “Yakhal’ Inkomo,” meaning “The Bellowing Bull,” is a beautiful and evocative piece that showcases his mastery of the saxophone.
  11. The Bats – “Shabby Little Hut”
    The Bats were a South African pop and rock band whose catchy melodies and tight harmonies captivated audiences. Their popular song “Shabby Little Hut” demonstrates the group’s ability to craft memorable tunes that remain beloved classics in South African music history.
  12. Solomon Linda’s Original Evening Birds – “Mbube”
    Though originally recorded in 1939, Solomon Linda’s iconic song “Mbube” continued to have a significant impact in the 1960s. This choral masterpiece features intricate harmonies and a call-and-response structure, providing a glimpse into the rich tradition of African choral music that inspired countless musicians in the decades to come.

This compilation of South African gems from the 1960s offers a window into a vibrant and transformative era in the country’s musical history. As you listen, you’ll experience a range of styles that blend local traditions with global influences, showcasing the innovation and resilience of South African musicians during a tumultuous period. From the soulful melodies of Miriam Makeba to the groundbreaking sounds of Chris McGregor’s Brotherhood of Breath, each track on this mixtape offers a unique perspective on the golden era of South African music. So, sit back, relax, and let these timeless classics transport you to a world of rhythmic bliss and melodic enchantment.

Sounds of South Africa: A Musical Journey

As an experiment to find out how much South African musical knowledge it had, we asked the Artificial Intelligence system called ChatGPT to compile us this week’s mixtape. The following is a transcript of our conversation and the result:

Do you know what a “mix tape” is?
Yes, I’m familiar with the concept of a “mixtape.” A mixtape is a compilation of songs or music tracks, typically from different artists and genres, recorded onto a cassette tape or other medium. Mixtapes were especially popular during the 1980s and 1990s when cassette tapes were the dominant format for music distribution. People often made mixtapes to share their favorite songs with friends, or as a personalized gift for someone special. The term “mixtape” has evolved over time and can now refer to a digital playlist or a compilation album released by an artist, although the original concept of a mixtape remains rooted in the idea of curating a collection of songs for a specific purpose or theme.

We would like you to compile a 20 song mixtape to introduce an international audience to the music of South Africa, including a wide range of styles from that country, including – but not limited to – rock, pop, jazz, folk, reggae, mbaqanga, kwaito, and a range of styles to get a broad overview. It is important that all the artists are South African.
I have compiled a mixtape of 20 songs to introduce an international audience to the music of South Africa. This list includes a wide range of styles and genres to provide a broad overview of South African music:

  1. Miriam Makeba – “Pata Pata” (Afro-pop)
  2. Johnny Clegg & Savuka – “Asimbonanga” (Afro-pop, World Music)
  3. Ladysmith Black Mambazo – “Homeless” (Isicathamiya, Zulu A Cappella)
  4. Hugh Masekela – “Grazing in the Grass” (Jazz)
  5. Brenda Fassie – “Vuli Ndlela” (Pop, Kwaito)
  6. The Parlotones – “Push Me to the Floor” (Rock, Indie)
  7. Freshlyground – “Doo Be Doo” (Afro-fusion, Pop)
  8. Abdullah Ibrahim – “Mannenberg” (Jazz)
  9. Mafikizolo – “Khona” (Afro-pop, Kwaito)
  10. Simphiwe Dana – “Ndiredi” (Afro-jazz, Soul)
  11. Yvonne Chaka Chaka – “Umqombothi” (Afro-pop, Bubblegum)
  12. DJ Mujava – “Township Funk” (House, Kwaito)
  13. Mahlathini & the Mahotella Queens – “Kazet” (Mbaqanga)
  14. Die Antwoord – “Enter the Ninja” (Alternative Hip-hop, Rave)
  15. Jeremy Loops – “Down South” (Folk, Acoustic)
  16. Black Coffee ft. Bucie – “Superman” (House, Electronic)
  17. Spoek Mathambo – “Control” (Electronica, Afro-futurism)
  18. BLK JKS – “Molalatladi” (Alternative Rock, Art Rock)
  19. Lucky Dube – “Different Colours/One People” (Reggae)
  20. Mango Groove – “Special Star” (Afro-pop, Marabi)

This mixtape covers a variety of genres and eras in South African music, showcasing the country’s rich musical heritage and diversity. Enjoy!

Thank you. Do you know what “sleeve notes” are?
Yes, I am familiar with the term “sleeve notes” (also known as liner notes). Sleeve notes are the written material that accompanies a physical music release, such as an album or an EP, typically found inside or on the packaging of vinyl records, CDs, or cassette tapes. They can provide various types of information, such as:

  • Background information on the recording, composition, or production of the music.
  • Song lyrics.
  • Credits for the musicians, producers, and other personnel involved in the creation of the music.
  • Personal anecdotes or stories from the artist(s) or other contributors.
  • Artwork or photography related to the music or the artist(s).

Sleeve notes offer additional context and insight into the music, and they can help listeners form a deeper connection with the artist and their work. In the digital age, sleeve notes have largely been replaced by digital booklets, which can be accessed through certain music platforms, or by artist websites and social media.

Could you write (approximately 750 words) sleeve notes to accompany your 20 song selection?
Title: “Sounds of South Africa: A Musical Journey”
Welcome to “Sounds of South Africa,” a carefully curated compilation of 20 songs that showcase the rich and diverse musical landscape of South Africa. This mixtape is designed to introduce an international audience to a wide range of styles from this vibrant country, including rock, pop, jazz, folk, reggae, mbaqanga, kwaito, and more. We invite you to immerse yourself in these captivating sounds and explore the unique musical tapestry of South Africa.

  • Miriam Makeba – “Pata Pata” (Afro-pop)
    Known as “Mama Africa,” Miriam Makeba was a legendary singer and activist who brought South African music to the world stage. “Pata Pata,” released in 1967, remains her most famous song and features her distinctive vocal style alongside a danceable Afro-pop rhythm.
  • Johnny Clegg & Savuka – “Asimbonanga” (Afro-pop, World Music)
    Johnny Clegg, often referred to as the “White Zulu,” was a British-born South African musician and anthropologist. “Asimbonanga,” released in 1987, is a powerful anti-apartheid anthem that pays tribute to Nelson Mandela and calls for unity among South Africans.
  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo – “Homeless” (Isicathamiya, Zulu A Cappella)
    Formed in 1960, Ladysmith Black Mambazo is an award-winning male choral group that specializes in isicathamiya, a traditional Zulu a cappella style. “Homeless” was co-written with Paul Simon for his “Graceland” album and showcases the group’s intricate vocal harmonies.
  • Hugh Masekela – “Grazing in the Grass” (Jazz)
    Hugh Masekela was a renowned South African jazz musician and trumpeter. His 1968 instrumental hit, “Grazing in the Grass,” combines elements of jazz with South African rhythms, creating an uplifting and timeless tune.
  • Brenda Fassie – “Vuli Ndlela” (Pop, Kwaito)
    Brenda Fassie, dubbed the “Madonna of the Townships,” was a beloved South African pop and kwaito singer. “Vuli Ndlela,” released in 1997, is a high-energy track that showcases Fassie’s incredible vocal range and infectious charisma.
  • The Parlotones – “Push Me to the Floor” (Rock, Indie)
    The Parlotones are a South African indie rock band known for their emotive lyrics and anthemic sound. “Push Me to the Floor,” released in 2009, features driving guitar riffs and a soaring chorus, making it a standout track in the South African rock scene.
  • Freshlyground – “Doo Be Doo” (Afro-fusion, Pop)
    Formed in 2002, Freshlyground is a multiracial South African band that blends elements of Afro-fusion, pop, and folk. “Doo Be Doo,” released in 2005, is a catchy, feel-good song that celebrates life and the power of music to bring people together.
  • Abdullah Ibrahim – “Mannenberg” (Jazz)
    Abdullah Ibrahim, formerly known as Dollar Brand, is a celebrated South African jazz pianist and composer. His 1974 composition “Mannenberg” is considered a cornerstone of Cape Jazz and serves as a symbol of hope and resilience during the apartheid era.
  • Mafikizolo – “Khona” (Afro-pop, Kwaito)
    Mafikizolo is a South African duo that combines Afro-pop and kwaito elements to create infectious dance tunes. Their 2013 hit “Khona” showcases their signature harmonies and energetic beats, making it an irresistible addition to the mixtape.
  • Simphiwe Dana – “Ndiredi” (Afro-jazz, Soul)
    Simphiwe Dana is a talented South African singer-songwriter known for her Afro-jazz and soul fusion. Her 2004 song “Ndiredi” highlights her emotive vocal delivery and thoughtful songwriting, earning her a place among South Africa’s most respected artists.
  • Yvonne Chaka Chaka – “Umqombothi” (Afro-pop, Bubblegum)
    Dubbed the “Princess of Africa,” Yvonne Chaka Chaka is a South African music icon whose career spans over three decades. “Umqombothi,” released in 1988, is a catchy, upbeat song that showcases her powerful voice and a lively bubblegum pop sound.
  • DJ Mujava – “Township Funk” (House, Kwaito)
    DJ Mujava is a South African producer and DJ known for blending house music with kwaito influences. His 2008 track “Township Funk” features hypnotic beats and syncopated rhythms, making it a dance floor favorite in South Africa and beyond.
  • Mahlathini & the Mahotella Queens – “Kazet” (Mbaqanga)
    Mahlathini, known as the “Lion of Soweto,” and the Mahotella Queens were a groundbreaking mbaqanga group that combined powerful vocals with driving rhythms. Their 1987 hit “Kazet” showcases their unique sound, which helped popularize mbaqanga music both locally and internationally.
  • Die Antwoord – “Enter the Ninja” (Alternative Hip-hop, Rave)
    Die Antwoord is a controversial and provocative South African group that blends hip-hop, rave, and performance art. “Enter the Ninja,” released in 2010, captures their edgy aesthetic and confrontational lyrics, making them a standout act in the South African music scene.
  • Jeremy Loops – “Down South” (Folk, Acoustic)
    Jeremy Loops is a South African singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his folk-infused sound. “Down South,” released in 2014, features catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a laid-back acoustic vibe that showcases Loops’ diverse musical talents.
  • Black Coffee ft. Bucie – “Superman” (House, Electronic)
    Black Coffee is a renowned South African DJ and producer known for his soulful house music. His 2010 collaboration with singer Bucie, “Superman,” combines deep, groovy beats with Bucie’s sultry vocals, creating a captivating dance track.
  • Spoek Mathambo – “Control” (Electronica, Afro-futurism)
    Spoek Mathambo is a South African musician and producer who pushes the boundaries of electronic music with his Afro-futuristic sound. “Control,” released in 2011, is a haunting and experimental track that showcases Mathambo’s innovative approach to music.
  • BLK JKS – “Molalatladi” (Alternative Rock, Art Rock)
    BLK JKS is a South African alternative rock band known for their genre-defying sound that blends rock, jazz, and traditional African music. “Molalatladi,” released in 2009, features intricate guitar work and powerful vocals, making it a standout track on this mixtape.
  • Lucky Dube – “Different Colours/One People” (Reggae)
    Lucky Dube was a South African reggae musician and one of the country’s most successful artists. His 1993 song “Different Colours/One People” is a call for unity and understanding, reflecting the spirit of the post-apartheid era and showcasing Dube’s distinctive reggae sound.
  • Mango Groove – “Special Star” (Afro-pop, Marabi)
    Mango Groove is a South African band that fuses marabi, kwela, and pop music to create a lively and upbeat sound. Their 1989 hit “Special Star” features catchy horn arrangements and infectious rhythms that capture the essence of South African music.

“Sounds of South Africa” aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the music of this incredible country. The tracks on this mixtape represent a broad spectrum of genres, each with its own unique flavor and cultural significance. South Africa’s music scene is a testament to its rich history, resilience, and diverse heritage, and we hope that this collection inspires you to delve deeper into the sounds and stories of South Africa.

As you listen, you may notice themes of unity, resistance, and hope woven throughout the mixtape. These themes reflect the struggles and triumphs of South Africa’s past and present, showcasing the power of music to connect people across borders and cultures. Whether you’re dancing to the upbeat grooves of kwaito, swaying to the soulful melodies of Afro-jazz, or losing yourself in the hypnotic rhythms of house music, “Sounds of South Africa” offers a musical journey you won’t soon forget.

We encourage you to explore the works of the artists featured on this mixtape, as well as other musicians from South Africa who continue to shape the country’s diverse and evolving musical landscape. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and enjoy the sounds of South Africa!

Thank you. That is excellent work. Could you suggest a prompt to feed to an image generating tool to create a cover image for this mix tape?
Certainly! To generate a cover image for the “Sounds of South Africa” mixtape using an image-generating tool, you can use the following prompt:

“Create an album cover for a mixtape titled ‘Sounds of South Africa.’ The cover should evoke the rich cultural diversity and vibrant musical heritage of South Africa. Incorporate elements such as traditional African patterns, musical instruments, and the South African landscape, blending them together in a visually striking and harmonious composition. The color palette should be warm and inviting, reflecting the energy and spirit of South African music.”

This prompt should provide enough detail and context for the image-generating tool to create an engaging and visually appealing cover image for the mixtape.

Thank you
You’re welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to help. Enjoy your South African mixtape, and have a great time exploring the music!

SA Musicians Covering Overseas Songs

In our previous mixtape we featured South African musicians covering South African songs. This time we focus on South African musicians covering foreign songs. Anyone familiar with live performers in South African restaurants and pubs will be all too familiar with the countless musicians plying overseas covers for a trade. Many a South African songwriter shakes their head in desperation at the thought of all the cover artists, trying to mimic the singers of the songs they cover, and taking the performance spaces potentially available to more original musicians. However, covers are not always a bad thing. Several musicians who mostly perform their own compositions also include some covers in their live sets or even record them as singles and on their albums. Most often these are viewed as interpretations – where they change the emphasis of the song or switch the song from one genre to another. At times musicians simply cover a song which they think will be a big hit if they adapt it to what seems popular in the current climate, or among their specific fans.

There are examples here which fit into all those categories. Interpreting songs is a very personal thing, and so rather than explain every song’s inclusion here, and fitting it into a particular category of cover, we have just listed the songs here, for you to listen to, think about, and perhaps explore further. We have included the names of the original performers in parenthesis, so that (in case you are not aware of the original) you can go back and listen, and think about the way it has been covered here. In case this sounds like a Musicology 101 course, we won’t ask you to write an essay. But please do leave comments about anything that grabs your attention. In the meantime … enjoy!

  1. Down On The Corner – Miriam Makeba (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
  2. The Voice Of Rage And Ruin – Kalahari Surfers (Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Bad Moon Rising”)
  3. Build Me Up Buttercup – Mean Mr Mustard (The Foundations)
  4. Paint It Black – No Friends of Harry (The Rolling Stones)
  5. Into The Fire – Suck (Deep Purple)
  6. Fooled Around And Fell In Love – Julian Laxton Band (Elvin Bishop)
  7. Substitute – Clout (The Righteous Brothers)
  8. Why Did You Do It – Margaret Singana (Stretch)
  9. Living For The City – Disco Rock Machine (Stevie Wonder)
  10. Magic Carpet Ride – Buffalo (Steppenwolf)
  11. Take Me To The River – Mara Louw (Al Green)
  12. The Weight – Dan Patlansky (The Band)
  13. Fine Lines – Syd Kitchen (John Martyn)
  14. Somebody – Matthew van der Want (Depeche Mode)
  15. Walking In The Rain – Johannes Kerkorrel (Flash and the Pan)
  16. Wait – Chris Letcher (Lou Reed)
  17. Complicated Game – Peach (XTC)
  18. Beds Are Burning – TCIYF (Midnight Oil)
  19. When I Went Out One Morning – Tribe After Tribe (Bob Dylan)
  20. Ring Of Fire – Laurie Levine (Johnny Cash)
  21. Sugarman – Just Jinger (Rodriguez)
  22. Money Money Money – Karen Zoid (Abba)
  23. Sunday Morning Coming Down – Wonderboom (Kris Kristofferson)
  24. Control – Spoek Mathambo (Joy Division – “She’s Lost Control”)
  25. Heart Shaped Box – Goldfish & Julia Church (Nirvana)

South African Musicians Covering South African Songs

Covers are an integral part of popular music. Some bands make a living out of playing covers, some musicians even make a career imitating another musician or band, covering their repertoire or a specific period of their music. This can take place the form of reduplication covers, in which live performances are approximated as closely as possible. Most commonly, musicians simply cover one or more songs by other performers during their career.

We have decided to celebrate cover versions of songs which are in some way related to South Africa. In this – the first mixtape – we are focusing on South African songs covered by South African musicians. The second will focus on foreign songs covered by South African musicians, and the third will feature South African songs covered by foreign musicians.

There are many motivations for covering another’s song, one of which is simply to choose a song which can make money, but often it has to do with paying homage to the original song or performer, and many of the songs included here fit that description. These songs tend to show a great deal of respect to the original version, in terms of tempo, melody and lyrics. Here one can include songs like Arno Carstens’ cover of Ballyhoo’s “Man On The Moon”, Johannes Kerkorrel’s cover of Bernoldus Niemand’s “Snor City”, Zim  Ngqawana’s cover of Abdullah Ibrahim’s “Chisa”, Miriam Makeba’s version of Hugh Masekela’s “Soweto Blues”, QKumba Zoo’s cover of Bright Blue’s “Weeping”, Sharon Katz & the Peace Train and Dorothy Masuka’s version of “Meadowlands”, made famous by Nancy Jacobs and her Sisters, African Jazz Pioneers & Thembi Mtshali’s cover of Miriam Makeba’s “Pata Pata”, David Kramer’s version of Roger Lucey’s “Dry Wine” , Urban Creep’s interpretation of the Cherry Faced Lurchers’ “Shot Down”, Vusi Mahlasela’s cover of James Phillips’ “Africa Is Dying”, Jennifer Ferguson’s version of David Marks’ “Master Jack” (made famous in South Africa by Four Jacks And A Jill), Tony Cox’s cover of Edi Niederlander’s “Ancient Dust Of Africa”, Sonja Herholdt’s cover of David Kramer’s “Skipskop”, Matthew Van Der Want and Chris Letcher’s cover of the Springbok Nude Girls’ “Blue Eyes”, Laurika Rauch’s version of Koos Kombuis’ “Liza Se Klevier” and Tonia Selley’s interpretation of another Koos Kombuis song, this time “Onder In My Whiskeyglas”.

Several artist included here have paid homage to Johnny Clegg’s music (whether with Juluka or as a solo artist). None of the covers included here have tried to imitate the crossover (Zulu-Western folk-rock) style of Johnny Clegg’s music and so while these songs remain true to the sentiment of the originals, they take them in to a different stylistic terrain. These include the acapella version of “Impi” by Not The Midnight Mass, and the rockier versions of “Great Heart” by Hog Hoggidy Hog, “Africa” by Wonderboom and “December African Rain” by the Springbok Nude Girls.

Two songs on this mixtape are an interesting form of cover song in which the cover versions include musicians who were part of the original version. David Kramer joins Jack Parow in his cover of Kramer’s “Biscuit And Biltong” while several members of the Gereformeerde Blues Band join with Arno Carstens and others to cover “Liefde”, originally recorded by the Gereformeerde Blues Band.

There are also socially interesting covers included here. Bernoldus Niemand turns the Radio Rats’ fairly international-sounding “Welcome To My Car” into a truly South African song, especially through his use of South African accent in his vocals. By joining together to cover the Freedom Children’s “Tribal Fence”,  Margaret Singana and Rabbitt go some way towards crossing the tribal fence they sing about. Finally, by sampling Hotline’s “Jabulani”, Prophets Of Da City, a Western Cape coloured hip hop band playfully pay homage to a commercially successful  white western/black neotraditional crossover song. To what extent their sampling of “Jabulani” becomes a cover (or not) is something to ponder.

We have thoroughly enjoyed compiling this selection of covers in which South African musicians have celebrated great South African songwriting and performance. So many emotions and moods are captured through these interpretations. We hope it drives you to go in search of some of the originals you haven’t heard, or even to re-listen to the originals as a matter of comparison. Also let us know if we have left out any of your favourite SA covers of SA songs: there’s bound to be a part two to this particular theme.

  1. Man On The Moon – Arno Carstens
  2. Liefde – Die Lemme
  3. Welcome To My Car – Bernoldus Niemand
  4. Snor City – Johannes Kerkorrel
  5. Chisa – Zim  Ngqawana
  6. Soweto Blues – Miriam Makeba
  7. Weeping – Qkumba Zoo
  8. Meadowlands – Sharon Katz & The Peace Train And Dorothy Masuka
  9. Pata Pata – African Jazz Pioneers & Thembi Mtshali
  10. Impi – Not The Midnight Mass
  11. Jabulani – Prophets Of Da City
  12. Great Heart – Hog Hoggidy Hog
  13. Africa – Wonderboom
  14. December African Rain – Springbok Nude Girls
  15. Tribal Fence – Rabbitt & Margaret Singana
  16. Dry Wine – David Kramer
  17. Shot Down – Urban Creep
  18. Africa Is Dying – Vusi Mahlasela
  19. Master Jack – Jennifer Ferguson
  20. Ancient Dust Of Africa – Tony Cox
  21. Skipskop – Sonja Herholdt
  22. Biscuits & Biltong – Jack Parow
  23. Lisa Se Klavier – Laurika Rauch
  24. Onder In My Whiskeyglas – Tonia Selley
  25. Blue Eyes – Van Der Want/Letcher

South African Women Singers Volume 1

In the last mixtape we commemorated Women’s Day by selecting a variety of songs which focused on women and issues affecting women in South Africa. While working on that selection we thought it would be fitting to compile a further mixtape which features some of the women’s voices which have formed part of the South African soundscape since the 1950s. Our initial aim was to select songs by twenty women singers but we soon realised that our task would be easier if we extended our latitude and made way for two mixtapes, rather than one. So this mixtape features the first 20 South African women singers in this two-tape series.

Songs chosen do not follow any particular theme, rather we chose singers and then selected songs by those singers which we think showcase their voices. We include some early veterans of the South African popular music scene (Miriam Makeba, Nancy Jacobs, and Letta Mbulu) and some who appeared on the music scene in the 1970s and 1980s (Margaret Singana, Sathima Bea Benjamin, Edi Niederlander, Laurika Rauch, Rene Veldsman – of Via Afrika, Lesley Rae Dowling, Brenda Fassie, Tara Robb – of The Spectres, Jennifer Ferguson, Heather Mac – of Ella Mental and Busi Mhlongo).

We also feature several more recent singers, who released their first recordings in the 21st Century: Simphiwe Dana, Karen Zoid, Zolani Mahola – of Freshlyground, Shannon Hope, Tailor (Anna Wolf) and Julia Church.

Enjoy your weekend listening and take time to find out more about those singers on this mixtape who you have not previously heard or heard of. There are some interesting stories to be discovered …

  1. Babhemu – Busi Mhlongo
  2. Isiphiwo Sam – Margaret Singana
  3. Mahlalela – Letta Mbulu
  4. Ndiredi – Simphiwe Dana
  5. Windsong – Sathima Bea Benjamin
  6. Meadowlands – Nancy Jacobs & Her Sisters
  7. Pata Pata– Miriam Makeba
  8. Weekend Special – Brenda & the Big Dudes
  9. Hey Boy – Via Afrika
  10. (See Yourself) Clowns – Ella Mental
  11. Teddy Bear – The Spectres
  12. Aeroplane Jane – Karen Zoid
  13. I’d like – Freshlyground
  14. Shiloh – Julia Church
  15. Ancient Dust – Edi Niederlander
  16. Suburban Hum – Jennifer Ferguson
  17. The Spaniard – Lesley Rae Dowling
  18. Kinders Van Die Wind – Laurika Rauch
  19. Daylight – Shannon Hope
  20. Where The Boys Are – Tailor

Women’s Day 2022

This mixtape commemorates Women’s Day in South Africa. On the 9 th of August South Africans acknowledge the contribution made by women towards improving South African society. In particular, on the 9th of August 1956 over 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, to protest an extension of the apartheid government’s pass laws.

Accordingly, black women would also have to carry passes when travelling to ‘white’ urban areas. The march was led by Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams The women left 14 000 copies of a petition at the doors of prime minister, J. G. Strijdom. They stood for 30 minutes before singing a protest song composed especially for that occasion: “Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ Imbokodo” (You strike the women, you strike the rock).

Significantly, the protest saw feminists coming together to make a stand against institutionalized racism. Over the following decades South African feminists continued to define feminist struggle broadly, tackling racism, class inequality and sexism in an intersectional way.

This mixtape begins with Nothembi Mkhwebane’s interpretation of “Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ Imbokodo” before moving into a series of songs which celebrate South African women and women more generally: “Women of the World” by the Mahotella Queens, Yvonne Chaka Chaka’s “Legends”, Laurie Levine and Josie Field’s “Trailblazing”, Edi Niederlander’s “Strong Women in Africa” and “African Women” by Pamela Nkutha.

Dope St Jude (“Inside”) and Godessa (“Social Ills”) tackle beauty standards to which girls and women of colour are expected to conform. There follows a series of songs which explore issues about women’s day to day lives. In “Bay of Bombay” Jennifer Ferguson sings of the sacrifices mothers often make: “her eyes would look at the food she cooked, and the clothes she’d clean and iron” all the time her thoughts escaping to “the ships floating on some bay.”

Khaki Monitor describe a young woman “Trying to Make Sense” and in “Mama Shabalala” Juluka describe the struggle of an old refugee woman “looking for a simple home … living from hand to mouth, dodging the wrong arm of the law.”

In “Mother Agriqua” Vusi Mahlasela tells the story of Saartjie Baartman, taken to Europe as a spectacle to be gazed at: an example of the African “other”, both alive and dead (as a museum exhibit). Finally her remains were returned to South Africa and buried. “Wenu se Goli” by Madosini Manquina documents the difficulty of life for rural black South Africans, when men had to leave home to go to work on the mines. The song is an open letter to a migrant mine worker informing him that because he has been away so long his wife’s love is over and she has been unfaithful. Miriam Makeba’s “Welela” is also about the effect of migrant work, but this time the song is about children calling for their mother to return because they long to see her.

Sexual violence is a theme addressed in depth in several songs included here. South Africa’s biggest shame is the widespread sexual violence by men towards women. In “Icala” Busi Mhlongo warns, ‘Don’t ever raise your hand at your woman”. Freshlyground wrote “Gone Gone Gone” (song for Khwezi) as a dedication to Fezekile Ntsukela Kuzwayo, who accused Jacob Zuma of raping her. Her treatment during the trial that followed was appalling, as she was victimized by Zuma’s supporters. In the end Zuma was controversially acquitted of the rape charges. “41 000 Sisters” by Kaalvoet Prinses (Tremaine Barnes) is a song of solidarity with women who have been subjected to sexual violence (41 000 is the average number of reported rapes in South Africa between 2015 and 2019) and is representative of the Barefoot Campaign, a stand against the rape and sexual abuse of women.

Karen Zoid in turn calls for “Justice! Justice!” She angrily demands “Lock away the rapists and throw away the key.” In “Signs” the Pressure Cookies remind us how, when reporting sexual abuse, women are often made to feel guilty about the venues they frequented, the way they were dressed, who they got a lift with, and in fact, they stand accused of failing to “stay behind closed doors”.

The mixtape ends with two songs by male singers providing a critique of sexism. Matthew Van Der Want’s “Lonesome Hero” is a satirical song from the point of view of a woman who wants her lover to experience freedom, but it becomes clear that the experience of freedom which she offers her lover is at her own expense. The song thus questions freedom in a relationship and how in a heterosexual relationship women often sacrifice their own freedom in favour of that of their partners. “Show Luv” by Skwatta Kamp is a hard-hitting attack on men who abuse women, making it clear that such behaviour is never acceptable.

  1. Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ Imbokodo – Nothembi Mkhwebane
  2. Women of the World – Mahotella Queens
  3. Legends – Yvonne Chaka Chaka
  4. Trailblazing – Laurie Levine & Josie Field
  5. Strong Women in Afrika – Edi Niederlander
  6. African Women – Pamela Nkutha
  7. Inside – Dope St Jude
  8. Social Ills – Godessa
  9. Bay of Bombay – Jennifer Ferguson
  10. Trying to Make Sense – Khaki Monitor
  11. Mama Shabalala – Juluka
  12. Mother Agriqua – Vusi Mahlasela
  13. Wenu se Goli – Madosini Manquina
  14. Welela – Miriam Makeba
  15. Icala – Busi Mhlongo
  16. Gone Gone Gone – Freshlyground
  17. 41 000 Sisters – Kaalvoet Prinses
  18. Justice ! Justice ! – Karen Zoid
  19. Signs – Pressure Cookies
  20. Lonesome Hero – Matthew VD Want
  21. Show Luv – Skwatta Kamp

Remembering Sharpeville: 21 Human Rights songs

This week we remember the victims of the Sharpeville Massacre which took place on the 21st March 1960. 69 protesters were killed and 189 injured by the apartheid police, in response to a gathering of approximately 7000 people who assembled at a Sharpeville police station to protest the government’s heinous pass law policy. In South Africa the 21st of March is honoured as Human Rights Day and is a public holiday. For this mixtape we have put together 21 songs which remember human rights abuses, Sharpeville in particular, and which call for (equal) human rights.

We begin with Bob Marley and the Wailers’ “Get Up! Stand Up!” which has become an anthem for human rights all over the world, often sung at political concerts with a human rights focus.

Several of the tracks included here refer directly to Sharpeville (sometimes spelt without the ‘e’): Hugh Masekela, Mario Pavone, Big T Commemoration Band, Ewan Maccoll and Peggy Seeger, Black Savage, and Karl Hektor and the Malcouns all recorded pieces which pay direct tribute to the victims at Sharpeville.

The Brixton Moord En Roof Orkes’s “Die Geraamtes In Jou Kas” (“The Skeletons In Your Closet”) and Bester Meyer’s “Die Kind” (“The Child”, based on the famous Ingrid Jonker poem) refer to Sharpeville within the context of the widespread injustices of the apartheid regime.

Miriam Makeba’s “Nonquonqo” (Beware Verwoerd) and Letta Mbulu’s “Nonquonqo” both capture the anti-apartheid government protest sentiments of the post-Sharpeville period. While the former warns Verwoerd’s government of Black protest, the latter grieves the imprisonment of political prisoners after the repressive government’s clampdown in the 1960s.

Juluka’s “Mama Shabalala” and Bob Dylan’s “The Lonesome Death Of Hattie Carroll” remind us how human rights abuses often take place on an individual level, even while we generally think of human rights abuse on a larger scale. Both songs consider the plight of individuals within an oppressive system, the former a fictional case in South Africa, the latter an actual incident from the United States.

Indeed, human rights abuses occur globally, and the mixtape also focuses on human rights abuses more broadly. Billie Holiday’s iconic “Strange Fruit” laments the lynching of black people in the southern states of the United States, while U2’s “Mothers Of The Disappeared” and Sting’s “They Dance Alone” are tributes to the mothers and partners of victims of government repression in Central and South American countries. The victims had been arrested, killed and ‘disappeared’. U2’s song refers to the Madres de Plaza de Mayo, a group of mothers whose children had ‘disappeared’ at the hands of Chilean and Argentinian dictatorships, and to the Comadres, a similar group in El Salvador. Sting’s “They Dance Alone” is dedicated to women related to the ‘disappeared’ in Chile, referring to the way the women danced the Cueca (the national dance) alone, while holding photographs of their loved ones. Both U2 and Sting were inspired to write these songs because of their work with the Human Rights organization, Amnesty. Another artist who has worked closely with Amnesty is Peter Gabriel, who wrote “Wallflower” as a tribute to political prisoners around the world. Gabriel’s chilling words are both a tribute to political detainees and a reminder of the human rights abuses carried against them:

Hold on, you have gambled with your own life
You faced the night alone
While the builders of the cages
Sleep with bullets, bars and stone
They do not see the road to freedom
That you build with flesh and bone

Though you may disappear, you’re not forgotten here
And I will say to you, I will do what I can do

The mixtape ends with four songs which advocate human rights in one way or another: by Rhiannon Giddens’ version of “Freedom Highway”, Daweh Congo’s “Human Rights And Justice”, “Equal Rights” by Peter Tosh and finally, Laurel Aitken’s interpretation of the USA folk protest song, “We Shall Overcome”.
As we listen to this selection, we are reminded of music’s capacity to mourn and document human rights abuses, and its ability to capture emotional sentiments which in turn can draw people together as they fight against repressive governments the world over.

  1. Get Up! Stand Up! – Bob Marley & The Wailers
  2. Sharpville – Hugh Masekela
  3. Sharpeville – Mario Pavone
  4. Tears For Sharpeville – Big T Commemoration Band Featuring Vuyelwa Luzipo
  5. Strange Fruit – Billie Holiday
  6. The Ballad Of Sharpeville – Ewan Maccoll And Peggy Seeger
  7. Ndodemnyama – Miriam Makeba And Harry Belafonte
  8. Nonquonqo – Letta Mbulu
  9. Mama Shabalala – Juluka
  10. The Lonesome Death Of Hattie Carroll – Bob Dylan
  11. Sharpeville – Black Savage
  12. Sharpville Massacre – Karl Hector & The Malcouns
  13. Die Kind – Bester Meyer
  14. Die Geraamtes In Jou Kas – Brixton Moord En Roof Orkes
  15. They Dance Alone – Sting
  16. Mothers Of The Disappeared – U2
  17. Wallflower – Peter Gabriel
  18. Freedom Highway – Rhiannon Giddens
  19. Human Rights And Justice – Daweh Congo
  20. Equal Rights – Peter Tosh
  21. We Shall Overcome – Laurel Aitken

The cover art features an extract of a painting depicting the Sharpeville massacre by Godfrey Rubens which hangs in the South African Consulate in London.

Censorship – No Anti-Apartheid Sentiment On The SABC

The SABC was a central component of the apartheid government’s propaganda machine, bombarding South African citizens with entertainment and information which either promoted the government’s ideology or at the very least did not overtly oppose it. The SABC censorship committee was therefore following a very clear mandate when it prohibited any music which in some way or another opposed the government’s apartheid system.

This mixtape documents songs which tackled a variety of issues dealing with the injustices of apartheid. Most of the songs featured are by South African musicians: The Cherry Faced Lurchers, Brenda Fassie, Jennifer Ferguson, The Genuines, the Gereformeerde Blues Band, Koos Kombuis, Louis & The Jive, Sipho Mabuse, Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Edi Niederlander, Savuka, Stimela and Condry Ziqubu. There are also a few international artists: Aswad, Harry Belafonte, Nona Hendryx, Latin Quarter, The Maze (featuring Frankie Beverly) and Joe Smooth.

These are just a few of the thousands of songs which fell foul of the SABC’s political censorship but nevertheless capture a cross section of the issues political songs dealt with: calling for political freedom in South Africa generally as well as the freedom of political prisoners in particular (for example Nelson Mandela), calling for justice, drawing attention to atrocities such as political detention and apartheid policing in support of unjust laws, and protesting against politicians (such as PW Botha).

A previous mixtape focused on political songs banned outright (for retail and import) by the Directorate of Publications and all songs featured on that mixtape were also necessarily banned from airplay on the SABC. They have been left out here to avoid repetition but that mixtape is recommended as an essential companion to this one.

  1. Jail To Jail – Brenda Fassie
  2. They Want To Be Free – Joe Smooth
  3. Confusion (Ma Afrika) – Condry Ziqubu
  4. Bring Him Back Home – Hugh Masekela
  5. Chant Of The Marching – Sipho Mabuse
  6. Where’s The Justice – Louis & The Jive
  7. Do It Right – The Genuines
  8. Sit Dit Af – Gereformeerde Blues Band
  9. Shot Down In The Streets – The Cherry Faced Lurchers
  10. No Rope As Long As Time – Latin Quarter
  11. Asimbonanga – Savuka
  12. Swart September – Koos Kombuis
  13. Suburban Hum – Jennifer Ferguson
  14. A New Day – Edi Niederlander
  15. Set Them Free – Aswad
  16. Move It – Harry Belafonte
  17. Freedom (South Africa) – The Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly
  18. Winds Of Change (Mandela To Mandela) – Nona Hendryx
  19. Soweto Save My Children – Stimela
  20. Soweto Blues – Miriam Makeba