Mabex proud of Tonga heritage

Langalakhe Mabena
He has been discouraged many times from doing music because of his native language Tonga. Yet despite all the negative reviews, Kwaito/House artiste Mabex real name Bhekimpilo Zingwa is still standing tall in showcasing his heritage.

With a music career spanning over a decade traced from late producer Joe Maseko’s stable, just like wine, Mabex has improved with age in the local music scene.

“I started doing music in the late 2000s. I was introduced to the late Joe Maseko at his studio in Gwabalanda by a friend. As I intended to popularise my native language, Tonga, I told Joe I wanted to do music in that language and he gave me the go-ahead.

“As I was young at that time, Joe introduced me to stable mates and producers Thorne who is now a host at Khulumani FM and Diliza. These are the guys that helped in shaping my career,” said Mabex who hails from Kariangwe Village in Binga under Chief Siansole.

In his career, Mabex has managed to release two albums on which he worked closely with Cowdray Park-based producer Shirati Drumz.

Despite being given an attitude when singing in Tonga, Mabex vowed he would continue representing his kin in the local music circles.

“I have two albums under my name which I worked on with Shirati. On the projects I mainly used Tonga language and obviously Ndebele as I also spent another part of my life in Bulawayo.

“I have been told before that I won’t make it as long as I sing in Tonga, but this is what I want and it’s something I know I am very good at. I have proved the naysayers otherwise as my music is rotating heavily on local radio stations,” said Mabex.

Meanwhile, Mabex has released a song of hope titled Rise Up. It is a piece of encouragement.

He is also working closely with Shirati Drumz on a six-track album which he said would be available online in February 2021.

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