Mfaz'Omnyama

Mfaz’ omnyama was a South African performer of Maskandi music, a noted guitar player and inventive lyricist.[1]

Born Mpatheni Khumalo, in rural Nongoma, was a left-handed self-taught master of the string and stage, and released many top-selling albums in his time.[2]

He is known for his hit singles such as "Khula Tshitshi Lami", Ngisebenzile Mama and Ngiyashisa Bhe. He was discovered by former Ukhozi FM presenter and host Bodloza Nzimande while working in a mine in North West province which was populated by unskilled labours from Eastern Cape specifically from Pondoland.

He was part of a music group called “Izingqungqulu Zomhlaba” consisting of Phuzekhemisi and Ihhashi Elimhlophe and later pursued a solo career.

Mfaz'Omnyama died of pancreatic cancer at age 42 in 2001 and has become even more popular after his death. He was survived by his wife and eight children. Busi Mhlongo did several cover versions of his songs in his memory.