noun
- A style of South African popular music that blends traditional Zulu vocal harmonies with Western instruments, typically featuring upbeat rhythms and dance-oriented arrangements.
Usage: South African music genre; Also spelled 'mbaqanga' or 'mbube-influenced'; Emerged in the 1960s
Examples
- Mbaqanga music became popular in South African townships during the 1960s.
- The band performed a lively mbaqanga number that got the entire audience dancing.
- Mbaqanga combines traditional Zulu harmonies with modern instrumentation.
- Many South African musicians helped popularize mbaqanga across the continent.
- The infectious rhythms of mbaqanga made it a favorite at community celebrations.