Nduduzo Makhathini is a visionary South African jazz musician, bandleader, and composer whose work has been lighting up not just the African jazz scene but also gaining international recognition. Born on October 25, 1982, in Umgungundlovu near Pietermaritzburg, his deep connection with his Zulu heritage is intricately woven into his music, which draws as much from the jazz idiom as it does from African indigenous sounds and spirituality. An adept pianist with a profound narrative style of composition, Makhathini's music serves as a conduit between the past and the present, the seen and the unseen, creating an immersive experience for listeners that transcends beyond mere auditory appreciation to touch on the deeply spiritual.

His extensive body of work, including notable releases such as "In The Spirit Of Ntu", "Ikhambi", and "Modes Of Communication: Letters From The Underworlds", showcases his belief in the redemptive power of music and its role in connecting disparate worlds. Makhathini holds a position as a lecturer at the University of Fort Hare, ensuring that his knowledge and passion for both music and cultural storytelling are shared with the next generation. He received international acclaim with his signing to Blue Note Records, becoming the first South African artist to achieve this honor. Makhathini's 2020 release "Modes Of Communication: Letters From The Underworlds" is a testament to his status as a cultural messenger, blending vocal harmonies, energetic rhythms, and soulful pianism to paint a vivid picture of the human condition through the lens of African spirituality.

Genres

South African Jazz

South African Modern Jazz

Latest Release

uNomkhubulwane

Nduduzo Makhathini

Album - 11 Tracks - Released June 7, 2024