Louis Mhlanga - Bio, Musical Career Achievements and Discogs

Louis Mhlanga is a renowned Zimbabwean artist, guitarist, and producer who has made a significant impact in the music world. Known for his exceptional guitar skills, Mhlanga taught himself to play the instrument at a young age and is celebrated as one of the top guitarists in Southern Africa.

Mhlanga's musical journey began in the 1970s in Zimbabwe, where he fronted various bands and blended American and Zimbabwean influences into his music. His talent quickly earned him recognition, leading him to collaborate with prominent Zimbabwean artists such as Shaka, Talking Drum, Ilanga, Mudzimu, and Oliver Mtukudzi.

In pursuit of broader musical horizons, Mhlanga moved to South Africa, where he continued to make waves in the industry. His collaborations in South Africa include work with legendary artists like Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ray Phiri, Sipho Mabuse, Mlungisi Gegane, and Busi Mhlongo.

Louis’ Bio

Full Name	Louis Mhlanga
Age	68 years old
Gender	Male
Place of Birth	Zimbabwe
Date of Birth	10 November 1956
Nationality	Zimbabwean
Marital Status	Not disclosed
Instagram	louis.mhlanga.za

Musical Career

Louis Mhlanga, a highly esteemed guitarist and producer, is renowned for his unique blend of African pop and jazz. He admired the work of local musicians like Thomas Mapfumo, whose traditional influences are evident in his music.

Mhlanga's first album, released by BMG Africa in the early 1990s, came out a decade after its recording. His international debut, *Shamwari*, showcased his ability to merge African pop with jazz elements.

In April 2000, Mhlanga produced Vusi Mahlasela's fourth album and featured on it. The live duo recording with Mahlasela resulted in the album *Vusi and Louis Live at the Bassline* (1999). He also contributed to Thandi Klaasen's *Two of a Kind* and co-wrote the title track for Stef Bos’s album *De Onderstroom*. Mhlanga's collaborations extend to the album *Place of Hope*, featuring artists like George Duke, James Ingram, Al Jarreau, and Dianne Reeves, as well as Andy Narell's *Fire in the Engine Room*.

In the 1980s, Mhlanga pursued music engineering studies in the UK, leading to work with the Scottish band Orange Juice. After returning to Zimbabwe, he worked as a sound engineer at Baptist Music Studio and recorded solo albums *Mukai* and *Music Ye Africa* with Jethro Shasha.

In 2001, he formed The Louis Mhlanga Band, which performed at the National Arts Festival and released the album *Shamwari*. Mhlanga has produced for Thomas Mapfumo, King Sunny Adé, and Vusi Mahlasela, and has experience running Zimbabwe's Ethnomusicology Trust, where he developed national teaching programs for Zimbabwean music. Additionally, he spent a year in the Netherlands as the musician-in-residence at the Royal Dutch Conservatory of Music, where he taught African guitar courses and recorded with bassist Eric van der Westen and Malian guitarist Habib Koité.

Songs

Albums

1997 - Mukai

1998 - Song for Nomsa

2001 - Shamwari

2004 - TInganekwane

2005 - World Traveller

2015 - Greatest Moments Of

2024 - Living for the Living

2024 - Two World

2024 - Zimbabwe Solo Guiltar Classics

Singles

2020 - Upenyu

2021 - Smooth Attitude

2021 - Dzoka Mudiwa 

2021 - Peaceful Presence

2021 - Dance for Life

Compilations

2004 - Keeping The Dream

2008 - Tiri Vaviri