African guitar greats the theme of our week on Sound Travels and our finale for Friday was a quartet of Southern Africa's best. Zimabwe, in particular is known for her guitarists and none has enjoyed more success than Oliver Mtukudzi. I also played a nice one from Nicholas Zakaria & Khaima Boys. Zakaria's work with the Khaima Boys is transcendent and has fueled his career to the present day.
Oliver Mtukudzi "Zimbabwe"
Nicholas Zakaria & Khaima Boys "Banja"
South Africa is not really given as much credit for the great sound pioneered there by guitar players. Though Mahotella Queens are known more for the vocal prowess of their powerful singers and Mahlathini in particular. But the work of Marks Mankwane on lead guitar was absolutely stellar and crucial to their very successful sound. Dick Khoza is a personal favorite and I think you'll like the hit "African Jive" he had in the 80's. His lines are funky in a familiar way but distinctly African on this club jam.
Dick Khoza "African Jive"
Mahotella Queens "Asembeni Bafana"