Zweli Bala is a prominent figure in the South African music industry, having built a stellar career as a member of the renowned Afro-pop band Mafikizolo.
Bala’s unique vocal strength and excellent songwriting abilities played a key role in the group’s rise.
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- Full name: Zweli Bala
- Stage name: Zweli Bala
- Date of Birth: February 15, 1975
- Age: 49
- Birthplace: Kariga, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Occupation: Gospel musician
- Height: Unknown
- Parents: Unknown
- Siblings: Loyiso
- Spouse: Melanie Barra (1990s-2017)
- Children: 2
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: $1 million to $5 million.
Early life and education
Zweli Bala was born on February 15, 1975 in Kariega, South Africa. He was raised by his parents, whose details have not been disclosed publicly. Zweli grew up with his elder brother, Loiso.
Zweli matriculated from St. Stysian’s College in 1994. Later, he studied for an online Master’s Certificate in Film and Television Composition from Berklee College of Music in Boston. Zweli’s ethnicity is black and his religion is Christian.
Profession
Talented South African musician Zweli Bala first gained recognition at the age of 11 when he competed in the prestigious Shell Road to Fame talent show and reached the semi-finals. With this early success, he formed the famous kwaito band TKZee with schoolmates Kabelo Mabalane and Tokollo Tshabalala.
TKZee received huge acclaim, releasing hit singles such as “Take It Easy”, the holiday hit “Phalafala” and the best-selling “Shibobo”, the latter featuring South African national football team player Benni McCarthy. Bala contributed to the band’s success, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the South African music scene.
After his time at TKZee, Bala embarked on a solo music career that showcased his versatility and artistry. As a music director and producer, he had the opportunity to work with renowned artists such as Ali Campbell of the iconic band UB40.
He has also produced music for the two-time Grammy Award winner Soweto Gospel Choir. He has been a soloist at the prestigious Classical Music FM-Lexus Gala at the InterContinental Hotel Sandton.
Bala’s talent is not limited to musical performances, as it was fully demonstrated in 2006 when he participated as a celebrity contestant in the first season of the SABC 2 reality show Strictly Come Dancing.
Awards and nominations
- South African Music Awards (SAMA):
- Lifetime Achievement Award (2019)
- Best single: “Lifted” (2002): Recognizing his solo success.
- Best Faith Album: Power Love Sound (2015)
- Metro FM Music Awards.
- MTV Africa Music Awards: Nominated for his work with TKZee and as a solo artist.
- Grammy Awards: Best Traditional World Award Nomination
Social Media
- Instagram account: @zeebala
- Facebook account: Zwai Bala
- Twitter: @Zwaibala
Personal life
The personal life of Zwai Bala, a famous South African musician, is very complicated. His first marriage to Melanie Bala lasted for more than ten years.
Although their names have not been made public, they have two children together. Unfortunately, the couple divorced in 2017. Currently, Zwai Bala is in a relationship with an unnamed woman and they are expecting their third child.
Discography
- Indigo Children(2014)
- Ndi Reddy (2014)
- One (2015)
- cooperate:
- Spread the love (with a cause)
- Gijima (with BigStar Johnson)
- For Your Love (with Hugh Masekela)
- Moody’s “In the Mood for Love” (from “Indigo Children”)
net worth
The estimated net worth of Zwai Bala, a famous South African musician and producer, has not been publicly disclosed. However, according to industry reports and his successful career,
His net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. Such a significant net worth is a testament to Zwai Bala’s outstanding achievements and contributions to the music industry.
