Bafana Nhlapo
Vocalist, percussionist, composer and performer
South African vocalist, percussionist and composer from Soweto, with more than two decades on international stages.
Bafana Nhlapo is a South African vocalist, percussionist and composer whose music brings together African musical traditions with jazz, funk, Afrobeat and contemporary sounds.
Originally from Soweto, Bafana has spent more than two decades performing internationally. As a member of the acclaimed South African band Kwani Experience, he toured extensively across Africa and Europe, appearing at major festivals including the FIFA World Cup Grand Opening Concert in Johannesburg and Pukkelpop in Belgium.
Known for his powerful voice and inventive use of industrial percussion, Bafana has collaborated with artists such as Bugge Wesseltoft, Busi Mhlongo, Madala Kunene and Mutabaruka. His solo album Ngikhumbule Ekhaya, produced by Bugge Wesseltoft, was released on Jazzland Records’ OK World label. He also contributed to LILJA’s album Mirage, which won a Spellemann Award in 2023.
Alongside his music career, Bafana has worked in theatre and performance, including a leading role in The Legends at the Norwegian National Opera.
At Foli Arts, Bafana brings his voice, rhythms and stage experience to concerts, storytelling performances and participatory workshops, connecting African musical heritage with new audiences and generations.