Afro-pop band Malaika, celebrated for their hit song “Destiny,” originally comprised Tshedi Mholo, Bongani Nchang, and the late Jabulani Ndaba. However, the harmonious melodies that once defined the group now seem overshadowed by discord. In a recent episode of “Podcast and Chill” with Mac G and Sol Phenduka, ex-member Mholo and Nchang publicly addressed their ongoing feud, shedding light on the tensions that have simmered since Mholo’s departure in 2021.
Mholo, who declared in 2021 that she would no longer perform under the Malaika name, shared her grievances during the podcast. Central to her discontent is her exclusion from the songwriting credits for “Destiny,” a song that catapulted Malaika to fame. Mholo asserted that her contributions to the performance and arrangement of the track warranted recognition alongside Nchang and producer Godfrey Guffy Pilane, who are officially credited as the writers.
Nchang provided his perspective on the band’s beginnings, recounting how Mholo joined and the subsequent recording of “Destiny.” Despite his recounting of events, Mholo’s discontent remained palpable, particularly regarding the management and booking disputes that plagued the group over the years.
The situation further escalated earlier this year when Mholo accused Nchang of leveraging her name to secure gigs, three years after she left the band. Nchang has been performing Malaika’s classic hits with new female vocalist Tsoakae Molipa, a move Mholo claims was done without her consent. In response, she demanded the removal of her vocals from the backing tracks used in these performances, a demand Nchang asserts has been met.
The podcast episode offered a rare glimpse into the complex dynamics of Malaika, a group that once led South Africa’s Afropop scene in the 2000s. With four studio albums and numerous awards under their belt, the band’s legacy is undeniable. Their international acclaim included a tour in Australia in 2008, where they were supported by “Australian Idol” finalist Tarisai Vushe.
Despite the rich history and success, the rift between Mholo and Nchang remains unresolved. The podcast did not provide a resolution, but it did highlight the intricate and often tumultuous journey of a band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Bizani umuntu omdala 📍
Zizokhala on todays episode, as we talk to Tshidi and Bongani about the separation of Malaika 🔴
Episode premiere at 3pm 🕒 on YouTube 🔴 pic.twitter.com/V5t2AwA5qb
— Podcast and Chill Network (@podcastwithmacg) August 1, 2024
