Makgona Tsohle Band

Formed in 1963 to accompany South African mbqanga vocalists, the Makgona Tsohle band achieved recognition in the 1970s through its role supporting the peerless township solo vocalist Simon Nkabinde Mahlathini together with the choral group the Mahotella Queens. The ensemble also issued several of its own-name ‘sax-jive’ hits across the late 1970s and early 1980s, selections that were later compiled on the album Mathaka Vol 1 (1983). Among the skilled players employed by the group were guitarist, composer and producer Marks Mankwane (d. October 1998), saxophonist West Nkosi (d. October 1998), bassist Joseph Makwela, drummer Lucky Monama and guitarist Vivian Ngubane. The deaths of Mankwane and Nkosi in October 1998 prompted the band’s dissolution.