Mkhonzeni professor langa biography sample

Mkhonzeni Langa, widely recognized by his stage name Professor, is a prominent South African kwaito musician known for his powerful contributions to the genre. Emerging from Durban, Professor first gained national attention as part of the duo Tzozo & Professor before embarking on a successful solo career.

With a career spanning over two decades, Professor has continued to shape and inspire the kwaito genre, solidifying his place as a respected artist in South African music.

Also Read: DJ Oskido Biography

Early Life

Professor, was born on March 27, 1978, in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. While little is known about his early education and upbringing, Professor’s musical journey began with a move to Johannesburg in 1996 to pursue his career in the kwaito genre.

Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame

Discovery and Move to Johannesburg

In 1995, Professor was discovered by music producers Lindelani Mkhize of Joyous Celebration and Mandla “Spikiri” Mofokeng of Trompies during a performance. This pivotal moment led him to Johannesburg, where the kwaito genre was thriving with artists like Arthur Mafokate and Mdu Masilela at their peak.

Formation of Tzozo and Professor

In 2003, Professor was signed to Kalawa Jazmee Records by producers Oskido and Spikiri. Partnered with kwaito artist Tzozo, they formed the duo ‘Tzozo & Professor’. Together, they popularized a subgenre known as Durban Kwaito Music. Their success was marked by albums like ‘Woze Durban’, ‘Amantombazane’, and ‘Magazine’.

Solo Career

Breakthrough Album: ‘University of Kalawa Jazmee’

In 2010, Professor launched his solo career with the release of ‘University of Kalawa Jazmee’. This album achieved triple-platinum status, with 120,000 copies sold. The lead single, “Jezebel,” was a massive hit, followed by other popular tracks such as “Imoto,” “Lento,” and “Jimaphi le Weight.”

At the 2010 Metro FM Music Awards, the album won Best Kwaito Album and the track “Jezebel” won Song of the Year. Later, in 2015, University of Kalawa Jazmee also secured the Best Kwaito Album award at the 21st South African Music Awards.

Second Album: ‘Orientation’

In 2012, Professor returned with his second album, ‘Orientation’, featuring collaborations with artists like Magesh, Speedy, AKA, Zakwe, and Zola. Standout tracks included “Baphi,” “One Night Stand,” “Ntombazam,” and “Fingerprints,” the latter featuring his brother Character and producer Oskido. This album won Best Kwaito Album at the Metro FM Music Awards, and Professor was honored with the Best Male Artist Award.

 Later Projects and Collaborations

In 2015, Professor released “Nguye Lona,” a hit single featuring Sdudla no Mathousand and Heavy-K. That same year, he contributed to Sphectacula and DJ Naves’ track “KOTW Anthem,” showcasing his distinct vocal style. In 2017, he collaborated with Zimbabwean artist Sandra Ndebele on “Lizwile,” which reached the iTunes Top 200 tracks in Australia World Music. In March 2022, he released the single “Ezangakini,” featuring Shwi and Sun-El Musician.

Record Label

Professor is signed to Kalawa Jazmee Records, under which he released his groundbreaking debut album ‘University of Kalawa Jazmee‘ in 2010. This debut set the stage for his success, garnering multiple awards and solidifying his place in South African kwaito music.

Controversy

Durban Metro Police Uniform Incident

In February 2013, Professor attended the 12th Metro FM Music Awards in Durban wearing a Durban Metro Police uniform. The uniform, later confirmed as authentic, belonged to his cousin who was a member of the force.

Professor admitted to borrowing it without his cousin’s knowledge, leading to charges of impersonating a police officer and unauthorized possession of a police uniform.

Professor faced these charges at the Durban Magistrate’s Court and was fined R3,000 (USD $202.98) or one month in prison. The court suspended half of the fine for three years, provided he did not reoffend.

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