Nthato Mokgata aka Spoek Mathambo’s, documentary film is an ode to his mentor and friend, multi-instrumentalist maskandi artist Bhekisenzo ‘Vukazithathe’ Cele. Spoek Mathambo and Vukazithathe’s uncanny union, an alternative hip-hop musician and a maskandi musician, is an illustration of the vastness of the artistic curiosity of both artists. Their collaborations, from their formation of the band Fantasma (which birthed the album Free Love) to his feature on the Spoek Mathambo album, Mzansi Beat Code, show an admirable dialogue between two Nguni artists of two different generations, cultures and musical traditions. Together, they have travelled through South Africa, Mozambique, Swaziland, the UK and France. After years of working together locally and abroad, Vukazithathe invited Spoek Mathambo on a trip to his original home, Dweshula, in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu Natal. As a filmmaker, Nthato Mokgata pours his affection for and gratitude to Vukazithathe in the form of a film that centers him, his music, and his life’s story – in Vukazithathe’s own words.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Directed and Edited by Nthato Mokgata
Assistant Editor: Carla Fonseca
Producer: Nthato Mokgata
Executive Production: National Arts Festival and Standard Bank
Music: Nthato Mokgata and Bhekisenzo “Vukazithathe” Cele
Production Sound Recording: Itamar Weiss