The Tulips - Uskhandamayeza (1978)

Herewith a hefty dose of mbaqanga soul from The Tulips courtesy of electricjive follower Frank Tischer. Recorded and released in 1978 on the Ring Ring label this collection is rooted in the style made famous by the Soul Brothers and borrows a lot from dance floor sounds of disco. The album was produced by Roxy "Black Cat" Butelezi. Roxy Buthelezi was active in the late sixties with the Queue Sisters, the Black Spurs and the Ndoda Band before joining EMI Brigadiers in 1971. He later recorded as the Black Cat Trio and created his own Black Cat label. He was assaulted in his sleep in June 1981 and died as a result of injuries sustained.

Enjoy! Rapidshare / Mediafire

Giant Hits: Seventies Soul mbaqanga (1977)

 I am always inspired by visitors who engage Electric Jive by leaving comments, asking questions and making requests. Rashied in following up on a post on The Raiders (see here and here) asked if anyone had any music by The Tulips. I am glad to be able to oblige Rashied.

This ten-track compilation stands out for its attractive vocals holding together a fusion of soul, mbaqanga and a touch of disco - an interesting moment that captures shifting trends and tastes at the time. The Tulips offer four great soul-inspired tracks, with their sweet-voiced lead singer sometimes imitating Mpharanyana's odd 'coughing' habit.

The Additions manage a pleasant fusion of soul-mbaqanga, while the lively Mthembu Queens give a nod to disco with their Asambeni Bafana (Let's Go Boys) - a great track which Nick has previously shared on this blog - Classic Mbaqanga Girl Groups Vol iii. (here)

The Movie Movies (I love the name) are pure Zulu soul-disco, while The Tulips cross-over towards mbaqanga in the catchy Banomona.

This record is still in great condition after thirty six years of careful storage by my friend Burgert. Thanks for the gift! Please do enjoy.

 

RS here

MF here