Zakes Bantwini Biography: Age, Wife, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height, Ethnicity, Children, Songs

Zakhele Madida, professionally known as Zakes Bantwini, is a well-known South African singer, record producer, and entrepreneur.

He is acclaimed for impacting the electronic dance music genre, especially Deep House, and is recognized for his captivating performances and innovative sound.

Profile

• Full Name: Zakhele Madida
• Stage Name: Zakes Bantwini
• Born: 26, May 1981
• Age: 43 years old
• Birthplace: KwaMashu, South Africa
• Nationality: South African
• Occupation: Singer, record producer
• Height: 1.76m
• Parent: Jeffrey Khanyile and Nomthandazo Madida
• Siblings: 9
• Spouse: Nandi Madida (m. 2016)
• Children: 5
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $60 million

Early Life And Education

Zakhele Madida was born on May 26, 1981, in KwaMashu, South Africa, to parents Jeffrey Khanyile and Nomthandazo Madida. Tragically, his father was killed at their home in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal. Zakhele grew up with nine siblings.

He attended Shayamoya Junior Primary School and Nqabakazulu High School before earning a national certificate in Light Music from Natal Technikon (now Durban University of Technology).

He also obtained a Jazz and Music Performance diploma from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban. He completed a Social Entrepreneurship Programme at the Gordon Institute of Business Science, University of Pretoria. Zakhele is of Zulu ethnicity, and his religious beliefs are not publicly known.

Career

Zakes Bantwini began his career in 2004 while studying at the Durban University of Technology, where he founded his record label, Mayonie Productions. His innovative sound quickly gained traction within the Southern African house music scene, establishing him as a prominent figure in the industry.

Bantwini’sBantwini’s talent and unique style were showcased in his critically acclaimed albums such as Love, Light, and Music (2013), Love, Light, and Music 2 (2017), Ghetto King (2021), and The Star Is Reborn (2023).

His educational background, including a Diploma in Jazz & Popular Music and certifications in Music Arrangement and Film Music, further highlights his depth as a musician. International recognition came when his single “Osama” went viral, cementing his status as a global music sensation.

Ghetto King’s album earned critical acclaim and led to two South African Music Awards (SAMAs), further solidifying his industry position. Bantwini’s career reached a new pinnacle in 2023 when he won a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Performance for his collaboration with Wouter Kellerman and Nomcebo Zikode on the track “Bayethe.”

This achievement underscored his belief in his music’s global competitiveness and ability to resonate with international audiences. To celebrate 20 years in the music industry, Zakes Bantwini held a special anniversary concert at the Durban ICC in July 2024.

In addition to his musical achievements, he has expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors, creating the lifestyle venue Studio in Cape Town’s The Rockefeller. His latest album, The Star Is Reborn, blends various electronic dance music styles with afro tech, showcasing his versatility and continued evolution as an artist and visionary.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @zakesbantwini
• Facebook handle: Zakes Bantwini Official
• Twitter handle: @ZakesBantwiniSA

Personal Life

Zakes Bantwini has been married to Nandi Madida, formerly Nandi Mngoma, since 2016. They have two children, further strengthening their bond as a family.

In addition to his children with Nandi, Zakes has three children from previous relationships, making him a proud father of five. His family life is an integral part of his journey, and he often shares moments of joy and love with them, reflecting the balance he maintains between his career and family life.

Discography

• Love, Light & Music 2 (2017)
• Ghetto King (2021)   
• The Star Is Reborn (2023)
• Imizamo (2021)   
• Ubomi (2022)   
• “”Wasting My Time”” (2011)   
• “Clap Your Hands” (2013)   
• “”Osama”” (2021)   
• “”Abasekho”” (2023)   

Net Worth

Zakes Bantwini’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $60 million, a fortune accumulated mainly through his successful career as a singer, record producer, and entrepreneur.