Rising star at The Rock

HIS name is Malibongwe Zulu, but most people call him Mali and he has become very well known by this name at ‘The Rock Music Bistro’where he has played on many occasions.

He also made his debut at the Lions’ Show last year where he was a great hit, so he has many local fans who will be glad to hear he will be back on the South Coast for a gig this weekend. Catch him and his band at ‘The Rock’ this Sunday, March 27. David Marks will host a pull in, plug in and play session from 1pm to 3pm after which Mali and his band will be on stage.

Mali has a stunning voice and plays a mixture of genres, ranging from Indie and pop to stripped down house music. Some people call it charismatic, charming music. Currently based in Pietermaritzburg, he is working two jobs. He is an IT networking intern at Umgeni Water and he performs after hours and over weekends at weddings and music venues.

In 2010 he honed his singing talents as part of the KwaZulu-Natal Youth Choir and this helped him to understand music, how important a repertoire was and how professional training could help a vocalist. He also made the top 31 in Idols SA in 2014 and this gave him great insight into what it took to be a great musician and how things worked in the music business.

He and Brian Chakanyuka, a great guitarist and one of Mali’s best friends, belong to a band called ‘Turning Into Gold’. They are a great team and enjoy travelling and making music together. Look out for an album from these two musos in the near future.