Madosini
voice, uhadi, umrhubhe, isitolotolo
Madosini, The Queen of Xhosa Music, is undoubtedly one of the most important figures in Xhosa music today. She continues to expand on the traditional repertoire of her chosen instruments by composing new songs and instrumental pieces.
Madosini was born in a village called Mqhekezweni, about 10 km west of Umtata in the Eastern Cape. While she was still young her family moved to the Libode district in eastern Mpondoland. Taught by her mother, Madosini began playing, composing songs, and making instruments at an early age. Her skills on instruments could be heard at social gatherings and she was loved by all. When she was 12 Madosini fell ill and spent much of her time making and playing instruments, developing a love for music which has stayed with her throughout her life. Her first commercial recording came when a film crew paid her R8 to record eight songs. Mysteriously some of these songs began being heard on commercial radio and in music stores in other parts of the country many years later, but Madosini was never compensated. Eventually Madosini’s renown caught the attention of Dizu Plaaitjies, leader of Amapondo, who eventually persuaded Madosini to join his group which she performed with in many parts of the world.
Madosini eventually relocated to Cape Town where she lives today, pursuing a solo performing career, and continuing her frequent visits to other countries to share her stories, music, and song.
"Back then it was simply a way of life and people made their own entertainment. Nowadays the traditions we lived by are dying and people are no longer telling stories and making music. I had to try my best to keep it all alive." Madosini
FREE DOWNLOAD:
RECORDS