Kwelatebza Returns After 16 Years

Why this is here: Kwelatebza’s return coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, linking their music to a pivotal moment in South African history.

Brothers Tshepo, Tebogo, and Mpho Lerole reformed Kwelatebza, a musical group from Soweto, South Africa. The trio initially gained prominence in 1996 by fusing traditional kwela music with jazz and township rhythms. They are the sons and nephews of established kwela musicians, continuing a family legacy.

The brothers stepped away from public performance roughly 16 years ago to focus on Mzansi Act Now, an organization dedicated to community programs and addressing gender-based violence. They continued to engage with music privately, reflecting on their impact and evolving their sound.

Kwelatebza now presents a modernized sound incorporating amapiano and house music. Their new single, “Soweto,” releases next Friday and commemorates both the group’s 30th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising. The group acknowledges the challenges of balancing heritage with innovation, and hopes their music will reach audiences beyond South Africa.