Imal'a yikho

Phelelani Mthembu, also known as ‘Mkhonto,’ is a time-traveling jazz wizard. The moniker originally belonged to his guitar but has since transformed into a crown he proudly wears. His spirit, embodied by his distinctive style and swagger, evokes a sense of solidity—a connection to an old, lost way. It's as if he walked straight out of the streets of Sophiatown, painting a vivid picture of a generation that set the tone for black contemporary artistry.

In our conversations, I asked him, ‘Why Jazz?’ Mkhonto replied, ‘Through my music research, I discovered Jazz and learned that it was initially developed by African slaves in America. They used Western instruments to express their hardships and struggle for freedom.’

I first met Phelelani Mthembu in pre-COVID times at the 'Sawubona Music Jam’ sessions, a weekly event that takes place every Tuesday night in Chiawelo, Soweto. In that smoke-filled backyard church of live music, he embodied the persona of an old-time gangster turned musician. When he picked up the guitar, he played calmly, providing backing for whichever live act was on until he took the stage for his solo. During these moments, he would launch into a reality-bending few minutes, carefully arranging messages spoken through his guitar.

Phelelani, at the age of 26, refers to himself as a merchant. When he's not practicing, performing, or composing, he sells a variety of goods to sustain himself and raise funds for studio time. Currently, he's immersed in rehearsals for the recording of his debut album, ‘The Man in the Green Blanket.’ Unfortunately, the project is on hold due to a lack of funds to produce the quality sound that jazz requires.

In 2023, he managed to release a single titled 'Imal'a Yikho.' This nostalgia-inspiring jazz ballad pays homage to the hard times growing up in Soweto and how people persevered despite the challenges. Despite the setbacks with his album project, this release marks a significant achievement in his musical journey.

Mkhonto, at the age of 26, is an inspired young man. His demeanor reflects lifetimes of lived experience. He became a perfect subject for my ‘Inspired Beings’ Portrait Project—a photographic exploration delving into individuals who excel in their work and contribute to making the world a more interesting place.