The 10 Best Kwaito Producers

Spikiri

Photo by Andiswa Mkosi.

Mandla "Spikiri" Mofokeng, alongside M'du, is the godfather of kwaito. The two formed what's arguably the first kwaito outfit, MM Deluxe. As a member of the pantsula trio Trompies, Spikiri produced most of their hits, with assistance from Oskido and Bruce Sebitlo, with whom he co-founded the label Kalawa Jazzmee Records. A Spikri production is hard to miss–his trademark bass line is unique to him and no one else.

That same bass line has been part of the biggest kwaito and afro pop hits and classics by the likes of Kabelo, Mafikizolo, Mzekezeke, Jakarumba, Mawillies, Lebo Mathosa, among others. He also produced most–if not all–of his solo stuff, including the massive hit "Current." His contribution to one of kwaito's most successfu labels Kalawa Jazzmee doesn't only make him one of the greatest kwaito producers, but a very important name in South African music as a whole.

Notable productions

Mafikizolo "Sgruva Njalo"

Kabelo "Pantsula For Life"

Kabelo "Dubula"

Mafikizolo "O Tswa Kae"

Spikiri "Current"

Alaska "Fokol"

Jakarumba "Kwenzenjani?"

Mawillies "Gagu"

Trompies "Fohloza"

Trompies "Magasman"

Trompies "Zodwa"

Trompies "Sigiya Ngengoma" (co-produced by Oskido)

Mafikizolo "Nisixoshelani"

Mzekezeke "Fosta Njengo Mzekezeke"