Mfaz'Omnyama
# Mfaz'Omnyama

Mfaz’ Omnyama (1959–2001) was a South African performer of Maskandi music, guitar player, and lyricist.

He is known for his hit singles such as Khula Tshitshi Lami, Ngisebenzile Mama and Ngiyashisa Bhe.

## Early life and music career

Mpatheni was born in rural Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal. He was a left-handed self-taught master of the string and stage, and released many top-selling albums in his time.

Khumalo was discovered by former Ukhozi FM presenter and host Bodloza Nzimande while working in a mine in North West province which employed labourers from the Eastern Cape, specifically from Pondoland.

He was a solo musician and later became the part of a music group called “Izingqungqulu Zomhlaba” consisting of Phuzekhemisi and Ihhashi Elimhlophe. Busi Mhlongo did several cover versions of his songs in his memory.

## Death

Mpatheni Khumalo died at the age of 42 in 2001, at St. Benedict Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after struggling from pancreatic cancer. He left eight children and his wife.

## Discography

### Studio albums

* Emazweni Baba (1995)
* Amagugu (1996)
* Khula Tshitshi Lami (1997)
* Ngiyashisa Bhe!! (1999)
* Ngisebenzile Mama (2000)
* Ngihlanze Ngedela (2001)

## International Performances

* Germany
* United Kingdom
* United States
* Hong Kong
