This content is one in which MaskaHub focuses totally on Imithente Biography. Remember, the platform is out to dymistify a lot of stuffs about the Popular figures in the Maskandi Music industry and today, we’re bringing to the public the biogrphy of one of Maskandi’s Legandary figures.

Imithente is one of South Africa’s most beloved maskandi groups — a vibrant voice for Zulu pride, culture, and everyday realities. With their signature blend of melodic guitar work, harmony-rich vocals, and sharp lyrical storytelling, Imithente has carved a unique space in the world of traditional music, particularly as a group led by powerful female voices in a genre long dominated by men.

Imithente emerged in the early 1990s from KwaZulu-Natal, not just as a band, but as a movement. Their songs speak of love, struggle, family, resilience, and morality, all wrapped in the proud cadence of isiZulu. For over two decades, they’ve remained a consistent and authentic voice in the evolving landscape of maskandi music.

 

In this article, we explore the roots, rise, and relevance of Imithente — from their beginnings and members, to their musical style, standout albums, and their influence on the broader South African music scene.

Imithente’s Biography

Founded in 1993, Imithente was the brainchild of the late guitarist Simosakhe Mthalane, alongside three strong and talented vocalists: Buselaphi Gxowa, Dumisile Manana and the late Nokwazi Ntuli. Originating from KwaZulu-Natal — the spiritual home of maskandi — the group was formed with a clear and bold vision: to give voice to women in a genre that had, for decades, been largely male-dominated, as I mentioned earlier.

Imithente arrived on the scene with a mission to challenge that norm, not by reinventing maskandi entirely, but by bringing fresh energy, harmony, and a feminine perspective into a space deeply rooted in Zulu cultural expression. Their sound retained all the traditional elements — the expressive guitar clicks, deep lyrics, and storytelling essence — but layered them with rich female vocals and themes that reflected the experiences of women who lived in rural and urban South Africa.

 

The group coined the name “Imithente” from an indigenous grass common in Zulu culture. This grass is known for its resilience, adaptability, and ability to thrive in difficult conditions — a symbolic reflection of the group’s journey and musical message. Like the grass, Imithente stood firm through challenges and change, using their music to speak about love, hardship, morality, and dignity.

 

Each member brought her own voice, story, and energy to the group, but it was their unity — both on stage and in spirit — that truly set them apart. Early in their career, they quickly captivated audiences with their modern yet authentic take on maskandi. Rather than straying from tradition, they enriched it, proving that the genre could evolve without losing its roots.

Imithente Basic Information

This section covers a little brief informaiton about Imithente

Group Name	Imithente
Formed	1993
Origin	KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Genre	Maskandi
Group Members	Buselaphi Gxowa, Dumisile Manana and the late Nokwazi Ntuli, and others
Label	Gallo Record Company
Years Active	1993 – Present
Notable For	Female-led maskandi group; harmonized vocals; socially conscious lyrics
Nationality	South Africa

 

Imithente’s Musical Career and Breakthrough

Imithente’s musical journey began at a time when maskandi was evolving rapidly. Their debut album, Isidikiselo, introduced a bold, rich, and refreshing sound — steeped in tradition, yet polished enough for mainstream appeal. The group’s use of multi-layered female vocals over traditional guitar-driven compositions caught the attention of audiences across South Africa.

 

The turning point came when their music began gaining traction on radio and television platforms, making them one of the first female-fronted maskandi acts to achieve national recognition. Their early work won them a dedicated following, particularly among rural and working-class audiences who felt heard and seen in their music.

 

Over the years, Imithente has released more than 15 albums, most of which explore themes like respect for elders, fidelity, social behavior, and moral values. Each release has shown their growth, both musically and lyrically, without abandoning the essence of maskandi’s storytelling tradition.

Imithente’s Discography Highlights

Imithente’s discography is a testament to their consistency and deep cultural roots. Some standout albums and songs include:

 

• Isidikiselo (2001) – Their debut project that laid the foundation for their sound and message.
• Vuka Mathambo (2012) – One of their most acclaimed albums, exploring betrayal and resilience.
• Ichakijani (2014) – A socially reflective album dealing with modern relationships and challenges.
• Uzoyikhona Kanjani (2018) – A late-career project that reaffirmed their relevance and mastery.

 

Their songs often touch on communal living, family loyalty, and the tensions between tradition and change — issues that resonate widely across South Africa.

Musical Style and Influence

Imithente’s musical style is a vibrant and unmistakable blend of tradition, harmony, and innovation. At the heart of their sound lies a strong foundation of traditional maskandi instrumentation — prominently featuring the guitar and concertina — layered with their signature harmonized female vocals.

 

Their music is characterized by precise rhythmic arrangements and a collective approach that distinguishes them from the genre’s typical solo acts. Where many male maskandi performers rely on individual storytelling, Imithente draws its strength from the power of group performance, echoing the communal spirit of Zulu oral traditions.

 

Lyrically, their songs are rich in isiZulu idioms, proverbs, and metaphors, anchoring them firmly in the cultural and linguistic heritage of their people. Their music functions as both entertainment and oral literature — conveying messages that tackle social issues, personal values, and everyday life with clarity and emotional depth. From themes of morality and love to critiques of dishonesty and injustice, their work resonates as a form of cultural education and social commentary.

 

Perhaps one of Imithente’s most powerful contributions to maskandi is their unwavering representation of women in a space traditionally dominated by men. By stepping into the spotlight and delivering music that is both rooted in tradition and boldly expressive, they have redefined what is possible for women in the genre. Their presence has challenged long-held gender norms and opened doors for more female voices to emerge in traditional South African music.

 

Over the years, Imithente has inspired a new generation of maskandi musicians — especially young women — to take pride in their roots while expressing their realities through song. Their success proves that the genre is not bound by gender, and that collective female voices have a powerful and rightful place in shaping the future of maskandi.

Wrapping Up: Imithente Biography

Imithente is more than a music group — they are cultural custodians, storytellers, and pioneers. In a genre where voices often echo from rural homesteads to city streets, theirs is a voice of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering identity.

 

For over 25 years, they’ve stayed true to the heart of maskandi while pushing its boundaries in terms of sound and gender representation. In doing so, they’ve helped ensure the genre’s survival and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

 

Their songs remind us that tradition is not static — it lives, breathes, and evolves. Through Imithente, the spirit of maskandi remains vibrant, defiant, and beautifully rooted in the stories of the people.

 

As long as there are tales to tell, hardships to face, and joys to celebrate, Imithente’s music will continue to echo — proudly and powerfully — across South Africa.