M Vinyl Records and CDs

In a deep, commanding voice, Mzwakhe Mbuli -- known in South Africa as "the people's poet" -- recites and sings his politically inspired verse to the familiar sounds of Township music. As a child he was introduced to traditional Zulu music and dance. Later, as the apartheid struggle heated up in the '80s, he became active in political theater, ultimately becoming famous for his inspiring words spoken at funerals. Operating clandestinely, like a guerilla poet, he surfaced at public events armed only with his words. His first album Change is Pain was recorded underground and was immediately banned in South Africa upon its release. Listen for shimmering guitar, soulful saxophone, fat bass, and drums providing the musical drama. Between political detentions in jail, he continued to speak out, looking forward to when "the day shall dawn.