Zandile Hlatshwayo

Zandile (aka Zandi) Hlatshwayo was introduced to the music industry in 2003 when she met Themba Mkhize, who gave her informal training. She then started working for him as a backing vocalist. He introduced her to people like Shaluza Max Mtambo and Lucas Senyatso, among many others. In 2005, Hlatshwayo became a lead singer in the song “Amantombazane” (“beautiful girls” in Zulu), which was produced by Sizwe Zako. In 2007, she joined Wadz Music Company, where she released her first solo house album, Life is a Journey. In 2009, Hlatshwayo became a member of Soweto Spiritual Singers, which is led by Vicky Vilakazi from Joyous Celebration; together, they performed at the 2010 Soccer World Cup with R. Kelly. Hlatshwayo has also performed with artists including Lira, Bebe Winans, Sechaba Padi, Thabo Mdluli, Jo Nina, Uche, and Patrick Duncan, as well as with Moses Molelekwa’s jazz band.