Local singer, songwriter, and director Mzwabantu Kanzi is hard at work to make it big in
the music industry. Also known as Laliboy, Kanzi, who originally hails from
Engcobo, studied at Walter Sisulu University where he graduated in 2009 with a BTech
degree. After graduation, he began directing theatre productions at
the university.
He not only composes and writes songs for himself, but for other people too. “I direct and edit music videos and work as graphic designer on things, such as CD sleeves, posters, brochures, logos, medals and trophies.
“I have shared the stage with respected musicians, including Cassper Nyovest, Vusi Nova, Naakmusiq, Kabelo, Professor, CashTime Fam and Thandiswa Mazwai. I would sing at various poetry sessions alongside
Zahara,” said Kanzi.
“I am in the process of writing and recording songs for my ‘mix tape’ scheduled for
release early in 2020. I am working with artists and producers, such as Mthunzi
Ntoyi, Junior Singo, Maxhoseni, Lance Romeo,Olothando Ndamase, DJ Soso WaseCala
and Mavivana, among others.”
Kanzi has made appearances on television shows on SABC1 and e.tv, as well as on radio stations, such as Umhlobo Wenene FM, Ukhozi FM and a number of community and campus stations.
He won the Beat Magazine SA Best performance of the year award in 2014.
He directed and edited a music video that featured actor Chumani Pan, known for his role as Monwabisi in e.tv’s Ashes to Ashes.
In 2013, Kanzi came second in the Macufe Fine Art Competition. He also featured
in an advertisement for Real Goboza and Smirnoff Vodka.
