The Kavango region of Namibia is home to a rich and diverse music scene, with talented musicians who have made their mark both locally and internationally.
From Afro-pop to kwaito, rap to house music, the region boasts a wide range of musical genres and styles that cater to different tastes. In this article, Karrel Hanutenya Updated World lists the top 10 musicians from the Kavango region, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the music industry.
Top 10 musicians from Kavango Region
10. Yamukongo: Starting off our list is Yamukongo, whose real name is Mukongo Chicorry. He began his career as part of the TKB band and later embarked on a successful solo career. His hit song “Eyi Yakukora Yiyo Ngayi Kulya” gained popularity, and he has been making waves in the music industry ever since, establishing himself as one of the musicians to watch in the region.
9. Bankx: Fernando Rube, popularly known as Bankx, is an Afro-pop singer from Rundu. He gained recognition with his single hit song “Muharwa”. Bankx has also collaborated with other well-known artists like M-GEE and is known for his amusing acting in his music videos.
8. Zondie: Zondie Zamungome, also known as “Baka-Baka,” is a talented Kwaito master, rapper, and Afro-pop singer. He rose to fame with his debut single “Babe zaga,” which he released with the help of the Kazla Jaiva music band. He was later signed by Basement Record and has collaborated with big names in the music industry like Exit and King Tee Dee.
7. 2Bu: 2Bu whose real name is Kandjeke Engelbert, is a musician from Tondoro village. He is legendary in the Record Lebel called Sihafereni Record from Tondoro and has been instrumental in promoting young and talented musicians from the Kavango West region, including Jussi and Ray Ndapandula who are doing great in the music industry now.
One of his popular songs is “Memories and kulikona-Kona”.
6. Jussi: Mikael Lazarus, known by his stage name Jussi, gained popularity in the music industry with his album “Hepwere,” which featured 11 tracks. His songs are known for their educational and emotional content, and he has become a respected figure in the Kavango region’s music scene. One of his best-known songs is “Kadira Kalire Tate.”
5. TKB: Tighy Kassie Brothers, commonly known as TKB, is a famous band from Rundu. Although originally consisting of more than 7 members, the band eventually trimmed down to three, with Yamukongo being one of its members. TKB, also known as the “Kaduma” hitmakers, are considered kings of Kwaito and Afro-pop in Namibia and have featured in collaborations with local and international musicians.
4. House Guru Gang: House Guru Gang is a Namibian Kwaito and Afro house music group, formed in 2014. The original lineup consisted of Kahengutji “Chahelman” Richard, Sappy “Jowdy” Mathias, and Baptista “Nasho” Gerson. They have won and been nominated for multiple awards at the Namibia Annual Music Awards (NAMA) in various categories. Their song “Blessings” is one of their well-known tracks.
3. MIG: MIG, a dynamic music group that originated its work from Elcin Nkurenkuru high school in the Kavango-West region, has made a significant impact on the music industry. Their debut album, “Unkurungu,” released in 2020, garnered attention from renowned US-based music executive and producer, Donald ‘Jefe’ Jackson, who signed them to his production imprint Foreign Game, marking the beginning of an exciting international partnership with MIG’s longtime management team, Prince and Krazzy Hammex.
2. The Two Cousins: Comprised of two talented cousins, Dani and Kendy, The 2 Cousins is a band that has gained widespread recognition for their hit single “Musiga Ogo.” Their music resonates with audiences across the country, as their songs convey important messages and lessons that are relevant in daily life. With regular airplay on Radio Wato, a beloved radio station in the heart of Kavango, 2 Cousins has captivated listeners with their captivating tunes.
1. M-GEE: M-GEE continues to captivate fans nationwide with his awe-inspiring musical creations. Renowned for his hard work and dedication, M-GEE has secured numerous sponsorships and endorsements, including collaborations with prominent betting companies.
One of his latest projects, “Kerekeke,” has gained widespread attention and is making waves throughout the country. As a result, M-GEE holds a prominent position on our list of the musicians from Kavango Region.
