Sicelo Ndlela, a member of the Mbhaqanga group Soul Brothers and a guitarist on Mbongeni Ngema’s Stimela SaseZola, has died. He was 65.
The legendary group shared the sad announcement on their Facebook account.
ALSO READ: Moja Love’s Fake Gobela Presenter Gogo Mathambo Dies
Soul Brothers Guitarist Sicelo Ndlela Dies
Soul Brothers mourned:
“It is with sore hearts that we announce the untimely passing of one of our longstanding bass player, Sicelo Ndlela, at the age of 65 after not being well for some time. Sicelo, a protege of Zenzele Mchunu, joined our band in 1983 with his childhood friend Skhumboso Mabaso, who played lead during our recording of the album, Isicelo. Following the passing of Zenzele Mchunu in 1984, he took over and played bass for all the albums until now.”
In 1985, Sicelo Ndlela joined the new group “Imitshotshovu” alongside Bheki Ngqobo, popularly known as “Ihhashi Elimhlophe,” Bongani Nxele, Sikhumbhuzo Mabaso, and Japan Sidoyi. The group, later rebranded as “Impumelelo,” recorded over fifteen albums together, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
Soul Brothers Guitarist Sicelo Ndlela Dies [Image: Black History Month]
Master With The Strings
Known for his versatility, Ndlela didn’t limit his talent to one genre, serving as a sessionist for various musicians in different genres, including Maskandi. His arrival 41 years ago added a unique flavour to the Soul Brothers’ sound, becoming a signature element for the group.
Reflecting on Ndlela’s impact, Soul Brothers mentioned some of their timeless hits that featured his distinctive bass lines, including “Bazobuya,” “Isigebengu,” “Uvalo,” “Ukhetha Bani,” “Ngidlala Ukuhlupheka,” “Isithothobala,” “Isigilamkhuba,” and “Hluphekile.”
Ndlela was also the bass guitarist on the late Mbongeni Ngema’s classic, “Stimela Sase Zola.” Ngema died in a car accident on 27 December 2023.
ALSO READ: ‘It was Inkosi Ilembe’ Themba Ndaba Reveals Shaka Ilembe Was Stolen From Mbongeni Ngema
The group acknowledged Sicelo Ndlela’s significant contribution to the Mbaqanga fraternity, stating:
“It is an undisputable fact that he left an indelible mark in the music industry, particularly the Mbaqanga fraternity. Uyibekile induku ebandla. He has run his race; he is knocking on heaven’s door.”