Zakes Bantwini

Zakhele Madida, known professionally as Zakes Bantwini, was born on May 26, 1981, in KwaMashu F-section, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He is a singer, record producer, and businessman who formed Mayonie Productions during his final year at Natal Technikon (now Durban University of Technology). In 2011, Bantwini released his single "Clap Your Hands" featuring Xolani Sithole, marking his breakthrough. His debut album, The Fake Book & Real Book: My Music Bible, was released in 2013 and nominated for Best Dance Album at the 20th South African Music Awards (SAMAs) the following year. Notable collaborations include a remix of Lauv's "Modern Loneliness" in 2020. Bantwini's subsequent albums include Ghetto King (2021) and The Star is Reborn (2023).