South African music icon Sipho Hotstix Mabuse is set to lead the Unity Soweto Concert 2026, taking place on 14th of June at Orlando Stadium. Born and raised in Soweto, Mabuse has spent more than five decades shaping the country’s sound, first as a young drummer with The Beaters, later known as Harari and then as a solo artist whose music became part of the soundtrack of a generation. His presence at this year’s concert connects today’s audiences with a powerful chapter in South Africa’s musical and political history.

Known for timeless songs such as Burn Out and Jive Soweto, Mabuse earned his nickname Hotstix for his skill on the drums, but his talent stretches across multiple instruments and genres. Beyond the stage, he has also inspired many through his personal journey, returning to complete his matric at the age of 60 to fulfil a lifelong goal. He joins us instudio.

South African music icon Sipho Hotstix Mabuse is set to lead the Unity Soweto Concert 2026, taking place on 14th of June at Orlando Stadium. Born and raised in Soweto, Mabuse has spent more than five decades shaping the country&rsquo;s sound, first as a young drummer with The Beaters, later known as Harari and then as a solo artist whose music became part of the soundtrack of a generation. His presence at this year&rsquo;s concert connects today&rsquo;s audiences with a powerful chapter in South Africa&rsquo;s musical and political history.
Known for timeless songs such as Burn Out and Jive Soweto, Mabuse earned his nickname Hotstix for his skill on the drums, but his talent stretches across multiple instruments and genres. Beyond the stage, he has also inspired many through his personal journey, returning to complete his matric at the age of 60 to fulfil a lifelong goal. He joins us instudio.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.