ARTHUR MAFOKATE


Singer, producer, performer, songwriter and television personality, Arthur Mafokate, Mr. Kwaito, or Mr Vuvuzela as he is known, is amongst the first of a group of South African musicians to term their new sound Kwaito. His ground-breaking and award winning releases, Kaffir and Oyi,Oyi, changed the face of the South African music industry with their catchy Kwaito beat and subversive lyrics. The lyrics of the 1995 EP Kaffir: "Nee baas…don't call me Kaffir", proved to be too much for several radio stations to play yet the EP was a huge seller and largely influenced the face of Kwaito today.

In 1996, Arthur released Die Poppe Sal Dans, and in 1997, Oyi Oyi, both of which were immensely popular. In 1998 he won the Song of the Year at the SAMA FNB Awards. Arthur's impact on the overseas market kicked off with a successful promotional performance in Spain when he released Farewell, dedicated to his brother's memory. In 2001 Arthur released his solo album Seven Phezulu whose theme is the celebration of township culture. A Gospel track sung by Abashante's Queen features on the album, as well as a track sung by then 12-year old artist Pantsula and the album features Don Laka's backing band.

Arthur is head of the record company 999 Music, who handle the Kwaito artists Ishmael, Speedy, Nestum and more and are always on the look out for new talent to develop