Phuzushukela, born John Bhengu in 1930, is widely regarded as the father of Maskandi music, a genre that embodies the soul of Zulu identity and tradition. He was not only a musical innovator but also a cultural ambassador who shaped the development of this uniquely South African genre. Phuzushukela’s contributions to Maskandi music have left an indelible mark on the South African music landscape, earning him a legendary status in Zulu culture.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in Kranskop, a rural part of KwaZulu-Natal, John Bhengu grew up in a community deeply embedded in traditional Zulu culture. The region’s music and social practices were influenced by Zulu customs, including Isicathamiya and traditional dance. From a young age, Bhengu was immersed in this musical world, and it wasn’t long before he picked up the acoustic guitar, which would become his primary instrument.
His nickname, Phuzushukela, meaning “sugar drinker,” came from his reputation for being a hard worker who often refreshed himself with sweet tea or drinks while on the road performing. The name stuck and became synonymous with his persona as a musician.
Bhengu’s fascination with music was matched by his deep respect for Zulu traditions. This duality became the foundation of his Maskandi style, which combined Western musical instruments—primarily the acoustic guitar—with traditional Zulu storytelling and rhythms.
The Birth of Maskandi
Phuzushukela’s influence on Maskandi music cannot be overstated. He is credited with popularizing the genre in the 1960s, giving it its distinct shape and sound. Maskandi, sometimes referred to as Zulu folk music, is a style that traditionally accompanied Zulu men, particularly migrant workers, on long journeys or while they worked away from home. It is characterized by the use of the acoustic guitar, often accompanied by the concertina or other traditional instruments, and features storytelling through lyrical poetry. Maskandi songs often reflect the life experiences, struggles, and joys of the common man, drawing heavily from Zulu culture and oral tradition.
What set Phuzushukela apart was his ability to fuse Western guitar techniques with Zulu melodic structures, creating a sound that was modern yet deeply rooted in Zulu heritage. His music was both reflective and dynamic, featuring intricate guitar playing and rhythmic patterns that echoed traditional Zulu dances. His lyrics, often delivered in a conversational tone, told stories of love, hardship, and the migrant worker experience, themes that resonated with many South Africans at the time.
Phuzushukela’s innovation lay not just in his ability to mix styles, but in his role as a griot—a storyteller who preserved Zulu history and culture through his songs. His music was more than entertainment; it was a way of keeping Zulu traditions alive during a period of rapid urbanization and social change.
Impact on South African Music
Phuzushukela’s pioneering work in Maskandi had a profound effect on South African music as a whole. At a time when South Africa was under the oppressive rule of apartheid, his music provided a voice for the Zulu working class, many of whom were disenfranchised and living as migrant laborers in urban centers like Johannesburg. His music articulated their struggles, hopes, and resilience, making him a hero among his people.
Phuzushukela’s rise to fame in the 1960s coincided with a growing interest in African traditional music, both locally and internationally. Maskandi became a symbol of Zulu pride and identity, and Phuzushukela was at the forefront of this movement. His music not only celebrated Zulu culture but also served as a form of protest against the harsh realities of apartheid. His songs about displacement, loneliness, and survival resonated deeply with South Africans across racial and cultural lines.
His influence extended far beyond Maskandi. Phuzushukela’s work helped pave the way for future generations of South African musicians, inspiring artists across various genres. He demonstrated that it was possible to merge traditional African sounds with modern influences, a legacy that continues to shape South African music today.
Notable Works
Phuzushukela’s discography is extensive, with many of his songs becoming iconic in the Maskandi genre. Some of his most notable tracks include “Amagugu Akwazulu” and “Intandane”, which showcase his mastery of storytelling through music. His albums, though not as widely distributed internationally, are considered classics in South African music and continue to be celebrated by Maskandi enthusiasts and Zulu music scholars alike.
Phuzushukela’s music was known for its melodic guitar lines and rich storytelling, often featuring complex fingerpicking patterns that mirrored traditional Zulu izibongo (praise poetry). He also introduced innovative vocal techniques that combined Zulu chanting with more melodic singing, a style that would influence later Maskandi musicians.
One of his lasting contributions to the genre was the way he approached the acoustic guitar. He popularized a distinct style of fingerpicking that incorporated both melody and rhythm simultaneously, creating a full and rich sound that became a hallmark of Maskandi guitarists. His approach to the instrument was deeply influenced by Zulu ugubhu (a traditional Zulu bow instrument), which added a unique flavor to his music.
Legacy and Influence
Phuzushukela’s legacy in Maskandi and South African music is undeniable. He is often referred to as the “grandfather” or “father” of Maskandi music, and his pioneering work in the genre has influenced countless artists who came after him. Modern Maskandi artists like Phuzekhemisi and Izingane Zoma owe much of their style and success to the groundwork laid by Phuzushukela.
In the years following his rise to prominence, Maskandi music evolved, but it never lost the core elements that Phuzushukela introduced. His music continues to be played on radio stations across South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where Maskandi remains one of the most popular genres.
Phuzushukela’s influence also extended beyond South Africa. During the 1980s and 1990s, Maskandi music gained international attention, and Phuzushukela’s name was often mentioned in discussions about African music. His contributions to world music were acknowledged as a key part of the global appreciation of African traditional music.
Conclusion
Phuzushukela, through his music, gave voice to the experiences of Zulu migrant workers and preserved Zulu culture during a time of significant social change. His innovative blending of traditional Zulu music with Western instruments created the foundation of Maskandi, a genre that has become an integral part of South Africa’s musical identity.
As the father of Maskandi, Phuzushukela’s impact on South African music and culture is immeasurable. His legacy lives on through the generations of musicians he influenced and through the enduring popularity of Maskandi music, which remains a powerful expression of Zulu pride and cultural heritage. His music not only entertained but also educated and united people, making him a true icon in South Africa’s rich musical history.
