THE late Mbongeni Ngema's lead guitarist, Cebo Ngema, is stepping into the spotlight.
Cebo has been investing his talent in music for a long time, working with various musicians behind the scenes, now he's reaping his first fruit.
The 32-year-old jazz musician from KwaMashu in Durban is about to launch his debut album titled Ulibo Lokuqala (First Fruit).
Cebo, who has worked with a long list of popular musicians the likes of Afro-Soul, Bheki Nqoko, Zululand Gospel Choir, and the late Mbongeni Ngema, will launch his album at The Playhouse in Durban on 26 April.
He played lead guitar on late Mbongeni’s latest album Thina Abantu Abamnyama released in 2023. Cebo told Daily Sun his debut album is his first fruit.
“Now is the time to show people my first fruit, a mix of jazz, fusion, mbhaqanga. People enjoy it, so far,” Cebo said.
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He said the album was recorded in 2021 and released in 2022. He decided to launch it this year.
“The album won a Best Jazz Guitarist Award at the Mzansi Musical Instrumentalist awards in 2022 while it was still not launched.
“I hope my album will continue doing well after the launch.” he said.
Cebo said the album launch will be the night of the guitars as he has invited other top guitarists, including internationally acclaimed maskandi guitarist Mbuzeni Mkhize and Hloniphani Art.
“I chose them because I like the way they play their guitars, their music and the way they carry themselves in the music industry.”
