Mthunzi Mvubu

South African based saxophonist and flute player Mthunzi Mvubu started his music career at the age of 14 at the Music Academy of Gauteng under the mentorship of the late Dr. Johnny Mekoa. He has performed with  Kevin Mahogany and Everest Greene, the O'Jays,  the Temptations, and Clarence Carter

Mthuzi has also performed around the world with the finest musicians  -  Abdullah Ibrahim, Themba Mkhize, Victor Ntoni, Omar Sosa, Nduduzo Makhathini, and many more. Recently Mvubu has been touring Europe as a member of Shabaka and The Ancestors.

A prolific session performer, Mvubu has appeared on more than 20 albums, including Lionel Loueke and Shabaka Hutchings. His experience and passion for the music have brought him to record his debut album, titled The 1st Gospel. 

 Mvubu’s intent and approach are evident in the title, as is his deep respect for the art form. Comfortable in any Jazz club or stage, the music speaks to a deep spiritual connection between player and listener at the heart of improvisational Jazz. The 1st Gospel sounds decidedly analog, with enough space and time to wander from the NY Jazz Club to the African village. One is reminded of a simpler, more relaxed time as each player shines without fanfare. 

session recordings

SWR New Jazz Meeting featuring Lionel Loueke

Marcus Wyatt – ZAR Jazz Orchestra Featuring Mthunzi Mvubu

Shabaka and The Ancestors – We Are Sent Here By History – Impulse Records

Shabaka and The Ancestors – Wisdom of Elders

Nduduzo Makhathini – Mother Tongue (2013), Sketches of Tomorrow (2014)

Herbie Tsoaeli – Afrikan Time

Thandiswa Mazwai – Belede

Feya Faku – Spirit Jazz Orchestra

Thandi Ntuli – The Offering (2014), Exiled (2018), Black Elijaj & The Children of Meroë (2022)

Impressions On Pepper – A Day In The Life, Verve Label Group

Mandla Mlangeni – Amandla Freedom Ensemble,Bhekisizwe

Tumi Mogorosi – Project Elo (2014), Group Theory: Black Music (2022)

The 1st Gospel

Release Date: December 2, 2022