Vusi is simply known as ‘The Voice’ in his native South Africa – a nod to his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics. Raised in the Memelodi Township, where he still resides, Vusi became a singer-songwriter at an early age, teaching himself how to play guitar and later joining the Congress of South African Writers. He has released six studio albums in South Africa. His appearance in the documentary film Amandla! A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony and on the accompanying soundtrack brought him to the attention of North American audiences.
Say Africa, recorded at Dave Matthews Band’s studio in Charlottesville VA, is a collection of songs with a strong message of hope not only for South Africa, but for the entire continent. While hosting a benefit concert in San Francisco for 46664, Nelson Mandela’s HIV/AIDS initiative, Vusi met legendary bluesman Taj Mahal. Two years later, Mahal came on as a producer after hearing demos of some of Vusi’s new songs. The album features bassist Bakithi Kumalo (Paul Simon), guitarist Mongezi Ntaka (Lucky Dube) and Ian Herman, Vusi’s longtime South African bandmate, drummer and musical director. Mahal contributes vocals to the exquisite love song, In Anyway, and vocalist Angelique Kidjo guests on the rousing Nakupenda Africa.
“His performances are optimistic and soulful delivered with an intensity that captures the attention and embraces the heart” – Los Angeles Times
“Vusi has a sort of profound beauty about him. He has a light on…And that’s something he would share with Bob Marley, Neil Young, Marvin Gaye or Miles Davis” – Dave Matthews, who signed Vusi to ATO Records.
