Kwaito music lovers are gearing up for an unmissable celebration of S’bu Malawyer’s remarkable 25-year journey as a solo artist. The event, taking place on 2nd August 2025, at the historical Eyethu Lifestyle Centre, promises to be not only a homage to his illustrious career but also a platform for emerging artists and producers to shine.
Sibusiso Ntshangase, widely known as S’bu Malawyer, rose to fame in South Africa’s vibrant music scene in the late 1990s. With his humble beginnings in Soweto and a passion for music that outweighed his academic pursuits in electronic engineering, S’bu’s commitment to the arts remained unwavering. Over the years, he transitioned from being a member of musical groups to establishing himself as a bonafide solo artist, having released seminal albums that shaped the Kwaito genre.
This upcoming celebration is significant not only because it marks S’bu’s 25 years in the industry but it also coincides with the acknowledgment of 30 years of Kwaito music. As part of the event, organisers plan to produce a musical theatre piece celebrating the evolution of Kwaito and its impact on South African music culture, which has seen the emergence of various genres influenced by the rhythms and beats of Kwaito.
Reflecting on his journey, S’bu expressed the importance of giving back to the music community that has supported him throughout the years. “I was fortunate to have the support of legends who came before me, and it’s vital that I dedicate this event to also uplift the next generation of artists,” he stated. Emerging talents will be given the chance to showcase their musical prowess, making this event a celebration of not just one man’s achievements but of the broader Kwaito family.
S’bu gained his footing in the industry with his debut album, ‘Amalawyer,’ released in 1997, which sold gold and cemented his status. His collaboration with industry titans like Chicco Twala and participation in the group Mashamplani further laid down his legacy. The subsequent years saw the release of major hits and collaborations, while he’s known for spearheading initiatives that highlight the essence of Kwaito music.
As he prepares to celebrate his milestone, S’bu has also been busy working on his latest single, “Amalawyer Reloaded,” released as an Amapiano version featuring various artists. His dedication remains evident, with S’bu stating, “The album was nominated for the SAMA Awards in 2024, but I believe there is still much more to be done. This event is a steppingstone.” Indeed, his commitment to both his craft and to nurturing new talent sets a commendable precedent within the creative industry.
