Freshlyground
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Freshlyground Biography
Freshlyground is an influential Afro-fusion pop band that originated in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2002. The group gained international acclaim for their collaboration with Colombian superstar Shakira on the hit single "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," which served as the official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The music video featuring Freshlyground has amassed over 4.2 billion views on YouTube, making it one of the most-viewed videos on the platform. After a five-year hiatus, the band announced their return in late 2024, introducing new lead vocalist Mbali Makhoba.
| Origin | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Formation Year | 2002 |
| Genres | Afro-fusion, Pop, Soca |
| Notable Collaboration | Shakira on "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" |
| Hiatus | 2019–2024 |
| New Lead Vocalist (2024) | Mbali Makhoba |
| Languages Used | Xhosa, English, French, Zulu |
Early Years
Freshlyground's members come from diverse multi-racial, multi-cultural, and multi-national backgrounds, including South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. The band’s violinist and backing vocalist, Kyla-Rose Smith, was deeply involved in the arts from a young age, performing with Gregory Maqoma's Vuyani Dance Theatre and studying jazz at university. Simon Attwell, the flautist, was a prodigy who played with the Zimbabwe National Orchestra at 15 and later earned a scholarship to the Chethams School of Music in Manchester. Aron Turest-Swartz transitioned from piano studies in Cape Town to drums and percussion in Dublin. Lead singer Zolani Mahola combined her passion for music with drama, having studied at the University of Cape Town and starred in the television drama series Tsha Tsha. Drummer Peter Cohen brought experience from his time with the iconic South African band Mango Groove, known for blending pop with township music styles. Bassist and backing vocalist Josh Hawks was a key figure in the early 1990s South African music scene, contributing to the success of The Streaks and the Zap Dragons.
Career
Freshlyground’s debut album, Jika Jika, was released in 2003 and quickly established the band as a vibrant force in South Africa’s music scene. Their early success led to performances at prestigious events such as the Harare International Festival of the Arts and the Robben Island African Festival.
In 2004, the band released Nomvula, an album that initially achieved moderate local success but eventually went double platinum in South Africa. The album featured popular tracks like "Doo Be Doo," "I'd Like," and the title track "Nomvula," which dominated radio charts. During this period, Freshlyground performed alongside legends such as Miriam Makeba, Stanley Clarke, and Femi Kuti, and expanded their international presence with performances in Italy and Zimbabwe.
Their third album, Ma'Cheri, released in 2007, continued to build on their success with singles like "Pot Belly," "Fired Up," and "Desire." The album was critically acclaimed and won several South African Music Awards.
In 2010, Freshlyground released Radio Africa, which included the politically charged single "Chicken to Change." The song and its satirical video led to an eight-year ban from Zimbabwe, which was lifted in 2018 following political changes. That same year, the band gained global recognition through their collaboration with Shakira on "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," the official anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The song’s infectious rhythm and message of unity resonated worldwide, and the band performed at the tournament’s opening concert in Soweto.
Their 2013 album, The Legend, was praised for capturing the energy and passion of their live performances, which have been central to their enduring popularity.
Artistry
Freshlyground’s sound is a rich blend of afro-fusion, a genre that emerged in South Africa during the 1970s and 1980s. Their music is characterized by a fusion of dance, kwaito, folk, kwela, indie-rock, jazz, and blues elements. The band’s multilingual lyrics incorporate Xhosa, English, French, and Zulu, reflecting their diverse cultural roots and broad appeal.
Honours
Freshlyground has received numerous accolades throughout their career. In 2005, they were nominated for three South African Music Awards (SAMAs) for their album Nomvula. They won the Best Duo or Group SAMA in 2008, the same year their album Ma'Cheri won Album of the Year, Best Adult Contemporary Album: English, and Best Engineer. Internationally, they made history as the first South African act to win an MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2006. Additionally, they received the "Best Africa, Southern" award at the 2008 Channel O Music Video Awards for their single "Pot Belly."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Freshlyground best known for internationally?
A: Freshlyground is best known internationally for their collaboration with Shakira on the 2010 FIFA World Cup official song, "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).”
Q: When was Freshlyground formed?
A: The band was formed in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2002.
Q: What languages do Freshlyground sing in?
A: Their songs incorporate multiple languages including Xhosa, English, French, and Zulu.
Q: Has Freshlyground won any major music awards?
A: Yes, they have won several South African Music Awards and were the first South African act to win an MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2006.
Conclusion
Freshlyground remains a seminal force in South African music, blending diverse cultural influences and musical styles to create a unique afro-fusion sound that resonates both locally and globally. Their ability to connect through multilingual lyrics and energetic performances has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. With their return in 2024 and the addition of new lead vocalist Mbali Makhoba, Freshlyground is poised to continue their legacy of innovation and cultural celebration in the music world.
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