Msawawa, born Siboniso Msawawa Dlamini, is a well-known South African Kwaito singer and songwriter recognized for his captivating music. He gained fame at the age of nine in the late 1990s and early 2000s, marking the beginning of his impressive musical career. With hit songs like “Bowungakanani,” “Hip Hop Kwaito,” and “The Prophecy,” his gospel-infused Kwaito tunes resonated with audiences across the country.

Msawawa became a successful Kwaito artist at just ten years old, surpassing other musicians of the time such as Mshoza, Mandoza, and Trompies. The former child star had an incredible rise to fame but later faced challenges, including financial struggles, which led to him stepping away from the industry for 20 years. Despite his absence, his song “Wawungakanani,” featuring Mzambiya, remains a fan favorite and continues to receive radio airplay.

In 2018, Msawawa made a comeback in the music industry, determined to reignite his career and once again entertain his South African fans.

Early Life

Msawawa, born on January 1, 1990, in the vibrant city of Durban, South Africa, displayed a deep passion for music from an early age. He found comfort and expression in the harmonies of his church choir, where his love for singing began to take shape. Growing up in a township in Durban, he was surrounded by a rich blend of musical influences, from the soulful rhythms of traditional Zulu music to the uplifting melodies of gospel and the energetic beats of hip-hop.

With unwavering support from his parents, who recognized his natural talent, Msawawa pursued his musical dreams despite various challenges. His breakthrough came when Bulldawgz Entertainment discovered him at just eight years old. In 2001, at the age of nine, he gained nationwide fame with the release of his album The Hurricane of Bowungakanani. However, the overwhelming success at such a young age proved difficult to handle, and he eventually stepped away from the spotlight.

Rumors surfaced that Msawawa had gone broke after disappearing from the music scene. During his time away from fame, he reportedly faced struggles, including involvement in crime, fraud, and violence, as well as dropping out of school. Eventually, he returned to his family in Durban, where he reflected on his past and worked toward a fresh start.

After years away, he made a musical comeback, teaming up with his longtime friend Mzambiya for the song Imoto Ka Shukela. The duo stated that they had been waiting for the perfect moment to make a strong return to the industry. While little is known about Msawawa’s parents, it is believed that they helped him manage the money he earned as a child until he turned 18. He is the only son in a family of four.

Career 

Msawawa’s rise to fame in South Africa was swift, driven by the success of his 2001 album The Hurricane of Bowungakanani. His talent captured the nation’s attention, and his subsequent albums and hit singles further cemented his status as a rising star. Among the songs he released in 2003 were Msawawa Bibo and Msawawa Sgidi, showcasing his musical prowess at a young age.

However, just as quickly as his star rose, it seemed to fade. Reports surfaced about the challenges he faced due to early fame, with rumors of financial struggles and an abrupt disappearance from the music scene. Speculation about his downfall left fans wondering if he would ever make a comeback.

In 2018, Msawawa reentered the spotlight, teaming up with longtime collaborator Mzambiya to release Imoto Ka Shukela. The duo had been waiting for the right moment to return, but the industry had changed, and their comeback did not receive the grand reception they had hoped for.

Determined to stay relevant, Msawawa made a bold artistic shift, stepping away from the Kwaito genre that had defined his early career. He embraced Amapiano, a move that sparked debates among fans and industry insiders about his musical evolution and ability to adapt to the changing landscape of South African music.

Personal Life

Msawawa is married to his longtime partner, Angela Gwala. The couple has children together, though they have kept details about their family private. Angela Gwala is ten years older than Msawawa. As of 2025, Msawawa is 35 years old, while his wife is 45.

Discography

2007 – Phants’ Phezulu

2014 – The Hurricane

2015 – Sibalukhulu

2015 – Home Sweet Home

2023 – Eagle Has Landed

Singles and EPs

2015 – No Way Out (EP)

2020 – Le Mfundo

2021 – Sosebenza

2021 – Ingane Ka Ma

2021 – Msawawa I-Star

2022 – Bayeza

2023 – Ikhenana

2024 – IZANDLA PHEZULU