Tlale Makhene

Tlale Makhene is a renowned South African percussionist born in Soweto. At the age of four, he began drumming after moving to Swaziland (now Eswatini), where he was inspired by the traditional drumbeats and rhythms of his maternal grandmother, a traditional healer. Makhene continued his musical journey by studying percussion full-time at the FUNDA Center in Soweto. He became highly regarded globally, earning the nickname "The Groove Master" for his incredible skill in polyrhythmic and melodic music. His professional career accelerated after being scouted by the Danish percussion group Drums Across, leading to collaborations with numerous musicians, including Danish artists John Sund and Yasser Pino.

Makhene's versatility extends beyond performing; he is also a composer, producer, and educator. He has worked with iconic figures such as Hugh Masekela, Johnny Clegg, Miriam Makeba, and Angelique Kidjo. His albums reflect a blend of traditional, jazz, and world music, with notable works including "The Ascension of the Enlightened," which won the MTN South African Music Award in 2005. Currently, he leads the Tlale Makhene Quartet alongside guitarist Tshegofatso Teffo, bassist Sibusiso Sibanyoni, and Ziyawakazitha on turntables and electronics.