Lutsinga Musical Ensemble

Thilivhali Tshivhase was born and raised in the Soweto ghetto of Johannesburg, South Africa under the laws apartheid. As a teen, he co-founded an acapella youth quintet that defined his voice and musical style. But due to his political activism, Thilivhali was soon forced to flee his homeland.

While in exile, Thilivhali formed several acappella groups singing revolutionary songs inspired by the political and social turmoil that was prevalent in South Africa at the time. He also began reciting poetry and writing his own music, influenced by the rhythms and harmonies of reggae, folk, township jazz and mbaqanga, and by the sounds of contemporary artists like Hugh Masekela, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Sweet Honey in The Rock, and Bobby McFerrin.

Thilivhali’s lyrics are inspired by themes of social consciousness - war, poverty, AIDS, globalization. His powerful voice speaks to our shared longing for peace, compassion and beauty. The music blends infectious grooves with spontaneous improvisational tangents unique to global fusion.

LUTSINGA is the Venda word for 'vein' - the main vein through which these melodious rhythms and sounds flow. We hope the music will inspire your spirit and groove your soul while encouraging tolerance and harmony.

Amandla!