By Phumzile Ndlovu
MBABANE – Eswatini’s boundary-pushing music collective True Classic is set to light up the stage at the second annual Ethafeni Maskandi Festival in South Africa, blending tradition and innovation in what promises to be one of the year’s most electrifying cultural showcases.
The much-anticipated event will take place on July 26, 2025, at the scenic Ethafeni Lifestyle Village in Empuluzi, Mpumalanga. Kicking off at 1:00 p.m., the festival is more than just a concert—it’s a cultural immersion. From pools and spa treatments to traditional Zulu cuisine, art displays, and the best of Maskandi music and dance, Ethafeni promises an unforgettable celebration of heritage and creativity.
At the heart of the buzz is True Classic, the genre-bending group made up of M Nation (Wandile Ndlovu), Cool Drop (Mancoba Mdzebele) , DJ Citie (Sipho Tsamuel ), and Histo (Majaha Ginindza). The collective has built a loyal following by blending traditional Maskandi rhythms with Afro beats and a lyrical style deeply rooted in SiSwati culture.
“As a team, we’re thrilled to be part of this festival,” said M Nation. “It’s more than a show—it’s proof that our brand is growing and our message is crossing borders.”
With each performance, True Classic aims to spotlight Eswatini’s unique cultural voice. “We’re coming with something different,” M Nation added. “There’s so much of our language and heritage in the music we’ll perform.”
The Ethafeni Maskandi Festival has quickly become a cornerstone for fans of indigenous and modern African music, drawing artists and audiences who celebrate storytelling through sound. This year’s diverse line-up and immersive experience promise to take things to new heights.
True Classic’s rise reflects a broader wave of Eswatini artists redefining what it means to be modern while staying rooted in tradition. “EmaSwati will be well represented on this international stage,” M Nation said proudly.
As the countdown to Ethafeni begins, fans can expect a weekend of rhythm, roots, and revelry—led by a group determined to make their mark on the Maskandi map.
(Courtesy Pics)
