Hailing from Empangeni in the heart of Zululand, Qadasi and Maqhinga are a duo well-known for their traditional Maskandi music. The two have been long-standing ambassadors for Project Rhino, performing at many fundraising, youth education and awareness events.

David Jenkins, also known as Qadasi, is an accomplished Maskandi guitarist, concertina and banjo player who developed a deep passion for Zulu culture and music at a young age. This interest grew exponentially over the years, and as a result, his love for traditional music was born. After matriculating in 2010, Qadasi released his first studio album under record label, Sande Entertainment headed by Sibongiseni Shabalala of four-time Grammy Award winning group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. His second album, released in 2014, has since been nominated for a SAMA (South African Music Award) and SATMA (South African Traditional Music Award). Qadasi was also recently honoured to receive a KwaZulu Natal Young Achievers Award for ‘social cohesion through Maskandi.

Maqhinga Radebe began his career as a Maskandi musician in the mid 80’s and has received numerous awards for his amazing musical skills, which also include SAMA and SATMA Award nominations. He has performed to audiences in several countries, sharing stages with top artists such as Hugh Masekela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Phuzekhemisi and Soul Brothers, to name a few. He is presently most well-known for his key role as the guitarist in popular Maskandi group, Shabalala Rhythm.

Aside from promoting Zulu culture, traditional music and social cohesion, the duo have also been actively involved in rhino conservation, working alongside the Kingsley Holgate Foundation and Project Rhino.

Website: www.qadasimusic.co.za           Facebook: www.facebook.com/qadasimusic