Vulindlela

In this episode, we meet Brenda Fassie, a 16-year-old girl with a dream and a voice that would soon capture the heart of a nation. Her journey begins in Langa, Cape Town, where she first took to the stage at the age of four, performing with a children’s group called Tiny Tots. Family members recall that by the time she turned six, she was already performing for mayors and community audiences, a child who seemed certain she was born to be a star. Discovered by Koloi Lebona, Brenda’s star began to rise with the recording of Weekend Special, a song that catapulted her to fame despite early rejection. Blondie Makhene recalls how a record label initially refused to record her.

As Brenda’s talent became undeniable, she began a powerful creative partnership with Chicco Twala. Together, they discovered a rhythm that would shape the sound of South African pop. Their first major success came with Too Late for Mama, released during a time of social and political change. The song struck a deep emotional chord, showcasing Brenda’s raw storytelling and Chicco’s instinct for timeless melodies. It was the beginning of something extraordinary. A few years later, Vulindlela arrived — a celebration of freedom, joy, and resilience. The track became an anthem, confirming the creative magic between Brenda and Chicco and securing both their places in South African music history.