The Springboks celebrated their RWC game against France to the soundtrack of Mandoza’s Nkalakatha.
Images via Twitter:
@springboks
Mandoza’s widow is proud hit song ‘Nkalakatha’ has become the Springboks ‘unofficial anthem’ at RWC
Mandoza’s 2000 hit song, ‘Nkalakatha’ has carried the Springboks to the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday.
The Springboks celebrated their RWC game against France to the soundtrack of Mandoza’s Nkalakatha.
Images via Twitter:
@springboks
Mandoza’s hit song Nkalakatha which turned 23 years this year has carried the Springboks to the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday, 28 October.
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‘NKALAKATHA’ STILL A HIT
The kwaito legend’s widow, Mpho Tshabalala tells Sowetan that she wishes Mandoza was still alive to witness the spirit of unity and patriotism his song, Nkalakatha has brought to the Springboks…Mzansi in general.
“I have mixed feelings about how popular this song is during this time. I find myself asking, ‘Why isn’t Mduduzi [Mandoza’s real name] around to witness how loved his song is?’ I don’t even think he knew what his song has now become.”
“Someone even told me that Mandoza was just an inch away from ending apartheid with this song,” she laughs.
Tshabalala adds that her late husband was just doing what he loves, which was making music and he created a song that’s been played in France, 23 years later after its release.
The popular song, Nkalakatha is being played in Paris pubs, watch-parties and has become the South African team’s unofficial anthem at this year’s Rugby World Cup.
SPRINGBOKS FINAL
Mpho Tshabalala has also commended Nkalakatha for crossing racial barriers and plans to relaunch her late husband Mandoza’s foundation at the beginning of 2024.
“When this song plays, it’s like all our eyes are shut and we’re just moving in one beat without judgment. This is why I’m so proud of what Mduduzi has done and the lasting legacy he’s left behind.
“This reception has made me want to support my son, Tumelo, who recently released his EP and is following in his father’s footsteps. I was against him being in the music industry at first, but I soon realised how much love and passion he had for his craft, hence I’ve now chosen to support him.”
Spotify revealed in September that their platform registered a spike in Mandoza’s catalogue, especially his hit song Nkalakatha, from August when his BET_Africa biopic debuted.
The 2023 Rugby World Cup will conclude tonight, when the Springboks take on the All Blacks in France.
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