Mnqobi Yazo
Mnqobi Yazo (born; Mnqobi Lindokuhle Msimango) is a South African singer-songwriter. Born and raised in Maphumulo, KwaZulu-Natal, released his first project Iscephu in 2018. After he signed a record deal with Mabala Noise, his debut album Impi (2020), which incorporated elements of African trap, Afro-pop, and maskandi, was certified platinum in South Africa.
Yazo has also pursued an acting career. In 2020, he made his on-screen feature debut on television drama series The River, and appeared as a guest on the television series Durban Gen (2022).
Career
Mnqobi began his musical interest as a rapper while he was still attending primary school.[1] After his matric he studied Performing Art at the Creative Arts College and obtained diploma.[2] His first project EP titled Icephu was released in 2018. Shortly after he signed a record deal with Mabala Noise, his debut studio album Impi was released on October 30, 2020.[3] It features Nobuhle, Shwi Nomtekhala, and Musiholiq. The album was certified platinum in South Africa.[4]
In November 2020, he made his screen debut on The River playing a role of Steven.[5][6]
i-Stiff was released on November 25, 2021.
In February 2022, he landed on a supporting role Durban Gen telenova.[7]
Artistry
Influences
Yazo cited Bhekumuzi Luthuli, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Oliver Mtukudzi as his major musical influences.[2]
Filmography
Year | Film | Role | Genre | Ref. |
---|---|---|---|---|
2020 | The River | Steven | TV series | |
2022 | Durban Gen | TV series | ||
2023 | Smoke And Mirrors | Dlozi | TV series |
References
- "Mnqobi Yazo". AfternoonExpress. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- Vikilahle, Luthando (25 February 2021). "5 minutes with Afro-soul singer Mnqobi Yazo". GQ. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- Miya, Madzadza. "Listen to Mnqobi Yazo's Much-Anticipated Debut Album 'Impi' - OkayAfrica". OkayAfrica. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- Israel A, John (12 November 2021). "Mnqobi Yazo's Impi Album Goes Platinum". Ubetoo. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- Langa, Jabulani (9 November 2020). "Mnqobi set to make his debut on The River | Dailysun". DailySun. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- "The River Is Set To Add Three New Cast Members". ZAlebs. 5 November 2020. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- Ngcobo, Mavi (17 February 2022). "Singer Mnqobi grows acting career | Dailysun". DailySun. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
- "Talent overload: All the winners from the first KZN Entertainment Awards". The South African. Retrieved 19 April 2022.