Zakhele Madida, professionally known as Zakes Bantwini, was born on May 26, 1981, in KwaMashu F-section, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He is a highly acclaimed singer, record producer, DJ, and entrepreneur, celebrated for his unique fusion of Afro-house, electronic, and jazz sounds. Bantwini has significantly influenced the South African music scene and earned international recognition, including a Grammy Award.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Zakhele Madida |
| Date of Birth | 26 May 1981 |
| Place of Birth | KwaMashu F-section, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Partner | Nandi Madida (married 2016) |
| Children | 2 |
| Occupations | Singer, Record Producer, DJ, Businessman |
| Labels | Mayonie Productions |
| Net Worth | Approximately $4.7 million to $7.5 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Zakes Bantwini grew up in KwaMashu, attending Shayamoya Junior Primary School and Nqabakazulu High School. Despite becoming a father at just 14 years old, he completed his secondary education.
He pursued further studies at Natal Technikon (now Durban University of Technology), where he earned a national certificate in Light Music. During his final year, he launched his own record label, Mayonie Productions.
Bantwini also holds a diploma in Jazz and Music Performance from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and completed a Social Entrepreneurship Programme at the Gordon Institute of Business Science, University of Pretoria.
Career
Bantwini’s music career took off in 2004, gaining widespread attention with the 2011 hit single “Clap Your Hands,” featuring Xolani Sithole. His 2013 album, The Fake Book and Real Book: My Music Bible, was nominated for Best Dance Album at the South African Music Awards.
He continued to release successful projects such as Love, Light & Music 2 (2017) and the critically acclaimed Ghetto King (2021), which included the chart-topping track “Osama” with Kasango.
In December 2023, Bantwini released his fourth studio album, The Star Is Reborn, further establishing his reputation as an innovative and versatile artist. Beyond performing, he has contributed as a label owner, A&R executive at Sony Music Africa, and collaborator with many prominent musicians.
Personal Life
Zakes Bantwini is married to Nandi Madida, a well-known actress, model, and TV presenter. The couple tied the knot in June 2016 and have two children together, Shaka and Nefertiti.
Bantwini is reported to have five children from three different relationships. Known for their strong and loving partnership, Zakes and Nandi often share moments of affection publicly and own properties in both KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
Zakes Bantwini Net Worth
Zakes Bantwini’s estimated net worth ranges between R88 million and R140 million, reflecting his success as a musician, producer, and entrepreneur.
Discography
Albums
- The Good Life
- Love, Light and Music (2010)
- Mountain Deluxe Volume 4
- The Fake Book and Real Book: My Music Bible (2013)
- Love, Light and Music 2 (2017)
- Bossa Paris Nights
- Ghetto King (2021)
- The Star Is Reborn (2023)
Popular Singles
- “Clap Your Hands” (feat. Xolani Sithole)
- “Osama” (with Kasango)
- “Girl in the Mirror” (feat. Skye Wanda)
- “Asanda” (with Kususa and Argento Dust)
- “Jeteme” (with Kekelingo and Mpho.Wav)
- “Mama Thula” (with Skye Wanda, Thakzin, and Suffocate SA)
- “Love Generation (Reimagined)” (with Bob Sinclar & Friends, Gary Pine)
Awards and Nominations
| Year | Award Ceremony | Category | Work/Recipient | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | South African Music Awards | Best Music Video | “Juju” (feat. Black Coffee) | Nominated |
| 2011 | South African Music Awards | Record of the Year | “Bum Bum” | Nominated |
| 2011 | South African Music Awards | Album of the Year | Love, Light and Music | Nominated |
| 2011 | Metro FM Awards | Best Male Award | Zakes Bantwini | Won |
| 2011 | Channel O Awards | Video of the Year | “Wasting My Time” | Won |
| 2022 | DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice | Favourite Music Artist/Group | Zakes Bantwini | Nominated |
| 2022 | South African Music Awards | Best Dance Album | Ghetto King | Nominated |
| 2022 | South African Music Awards | Best Collaboration | “Osama” | Won |
| 2022 | South African Music Awards | SAMRO Highest Airplay Composer | “Osama” | Won |
| 2022 | Grammy Awards | Best Global Music Performance | “Bayethe” (with Nomcebo Zikode & Wouter Kellerman) | Won |
| 2023 | Metro FM Awards | Best House Song | “Asanda” | Nominated |
| 2023 | South African Music Awards | International Achievement | Zakes Bantwini | Won |
| 2024 | GQ Best Dressed Awards | Best Dressed Couple | Zakes Bantwini | Won |
Zakes Bantwini remains a leading figure in South African music, admired for his creative artistry, entrepreneurial spirit, and global impact.
