In the heart of Bulawayo, often referred to as the cultural mother city of Zimbabwe, a musical phenomenon has emerged, captivating audiences far and wide with a sound that transcends time and genre.
Mqhelisi Nkomo (pictured), celebrated creatively as Gadlabemhleba, is not merely a musician; but he is a cultural custodian and spiritual guide, weaving the rich heritage of Bulawayo into a unique sonic arras known as '5 in 1.'
This fusion artfully blends Afro-beats, Maskandi, Amapiano, jazz, and traditional sounds, creating an innovative and transcendent musical experience.
Bulawayo, with its vibrant cultural landscape and rich history, serves as the fertile ground from which Gadlabemhleba’s musical journey sprouted.
Known for its diverse artistic expressions, the city has long been a beacon of creativity and cultural pride in Zimbabwe. From the bustling markets filled with the sounds of Mbira and Marimba to the soulful tunes of street performers who busk for a living and are labelled beggars, Bulawayo breathes music.
Mqhelisi's early years in this dynamic city were infused with the sounds and stories of his ancestors. Growing up, he absorbed the myriad influences that define Bulawayo’s cultural identity, from the traditional Ndebele rhythms to the contemporary urban beats.
It was here that Mqhelisi, destined to become Gadlabemhleba — a name symbolising the harmonious blend of sound and spirit in accordance with my interpretation, began to envision a musical style that would honor his roots while embracing the future. Gadlabemhleba's '5 in 1' style is a sonic celebration of diversity and unity, rooted deeply in Bulawayo’s cultural essence.
It begins with the pulsating Afro- beats, the heartbeat of contemporary African music, which infuses his compositions with vibrant energy and rhythm.
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These beats are the lifeblood of his music, resonating with the soul of the city. Layered upon this foundation is Maskandi, the soulful, guitar-driven music of the Zulu people, which reflects the historical and cultural ties between Bulawayo and the broader southern African region.
The authenticity of Maskandi evokes the raw landscapes and the stories of resilience and triumph that are central to Bulawayo’s spirit.
Amapiano, with its deep house influences and jazz-like syncopation, brings a modern, danceable flair to Gadlabemhleba's music.
Its infectious beats and groovy bass lines are seamlessly intertwined with the improvisational freedom of jazz, which has long been a staple in Bulawayo’s musical repertoire.
These elements are not just genres but expressions of the city's evolving identity. Completing this rich tapestry are the traditional sounds and the ancestral echoes of Bulawayo’s indigenous heritage.
These sounds ground the music in its cultural roots, ensuring that every composition is a spiritual journey as well as an auditory one, connecting listeners to the timeless wisdom of their forebears.
Listening to Gadlabemhleba’s '5 in 1' creations is akin to embarking on a journey through the diverse soundscapes of Bulawayo and beyond.
Each track in his “Ndiwelindonga” album invites the listener to traverse different musical terrains.
The music evokes the vibrant energy of Bulawayo’s streets with their Afrobeat pulse, soon transitioning to the pastoral serenades of Maskandi, only to find oneself swaying to the sophisticated rhythms of Amapiano.
As the listening journey progresses, the jazz elements take center stage, leading to unexpected turns and delightful improvisations.
All the while, the traditional sounds serve as a compass, guiding the listener back to the roots, to the spiritual core from which all music springs.
This seamless fusion creates a transcendent experience, one that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Gadlabemhleba's '5 in 1' style is more than a musical innovation; it is a cultural phenomenon deeply intertwined with the identity of Bulawayo.
His music serves as a bridge, connecting different generations, cultures, and worlds. It is a celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage and its dynamic future. In a world often divided by differences, Gadlabemhleba’s music is a unifying force, reminding us of our shared humanity and the beauty of our diverse expressions.
Through workshops, performances, and community engagements in Bulawayo and beyond, Gadlabemhleba spreads his message of unity and spiritual awakening.
His concerts are not just auditory experiences but communal rites, where music becomes a healing force, a source of joy, and a catalyst for transformation.
King Gadla as he also calls himself left me in suspense with regard to his deeper gift and calling related to African spirituality which he calls “emsamo”.
Gadlabemhleba, has created a musical genre that is as rich and varied as the landscapes of Bulawayo itself.
His '5 in 1' style is a testament to his visionary artistry and deep spiritual connection to his roots. It is a celebration of life in all its complexity and beauty, an invitation to dance, to listen, and to transcend.
As Gadlabemhleba continues his musical journey, he leaves an indelible mark on the world, one that resonates with the timeless power of music and the enduring spirit of Bulawayo.
- Raymond Millagre Langa is a musician, poet, orator, independent researcher and founder of Indebo edutainment Trust. You can follow him on Facebook @Millagre Ray Langa, on X you can follow on #Millagre Langa, email. millagrepapito@gmail.com or indebotrust@gmail.com
