Peta Teanet

In April 1996 Billboard Magazine singled out Soweto-born vocalist Peta Teanet as one of "South Africa's artists to watch." An infectious disco beat and a sensuous female choir that featured future solo artist MaLindi propelled his distinctive fusion of South African urban bubblegum pop with uplifting lyrics delivered in his native Tsonga. Extensive touring across the country established him as one of its top-selling artists, thanks to such hits as "Cina Ndoda," "Damage," and "I Love You Africa." Only months later a policeman shot and killed Teanet during an argument, abruptly ending his reign as "king of Shangaan disco." The site www.digitalcupboard.co.za later described him as "a larger than life figure -- the epitome of burning out rather than fading away." His brother Forsta Teanet subsequently stepped into the role of singer and bandleader. MaLindi issued her debut solo album, To the Beat Yo!, in 2000.