Allen Kwela was born on this day

On this day, Allen Kwela was born in Kwazulu Natal. He was exposed to Western and traditional African music, both of which were important in shaping his musical style. When he moved to Johannesburg during the 1950’s he met musician Spokes Mashiyane. They collaborated musically and Allen composed most of the kwela music, while Mashiyane performed. However, he remained in the shadow of his collaborator, who was later credited with the breakthrough of kwela during the 1950’s. After his partnership with Mashiyane ended, he became interested in jazz, playing with well-known South African jazz artists such as Kippie Moeketsi and Barney Rchabane. He subsequently became one of South Africa’s legendary jazz guitarists. His only album, Broken Strings, was released in 1998. [1] Endnotes [1] Allen Kwela, Available online: http://www.allmusic.com/artist/allen-kwela-mn0001930149 (30 May 2017). ↵