Big Nuz

The unmistakable opening beat of Umlilo became the soundtrack to parties, taxis and dance floors across South Africa, cementing Big Nuz as one of the defining voices of modern kwaito. Formed in 2002 in Umlazi, south of Durban, the trio brought together Mandla ‘Mampintsha’ Maphumulo, Sibusiso ‘R Mashesha’ Khomo and Mzingisi ‘Danger’ Tshomela. Their name reflected both their ambition to ‘do things big’ and the ‘NUZ’ vehicle registration prefix associated with their hometown, a community that remained central to their identity throughout their career.

After years of searching for a recording contract, Big Nuz released their debut album, Zozo, through Gallo in 2006. Although the album achieved only modest success, their fortunes changed after joining DJ Tira's Afrotainment label. The 2008 album 2nd Round Knockout introduced popular singles such as Uyoysholo Wena and Ubala, before the platinum-selling Undisputed transformed the trio into household names. Released in 2009, the album featured Umlilo, one of South Africa's biggest kwaito anthems. They followed it with successful albums including Pound for Pound, Made in Africa and For the Fans, producing enduring hits such as Ntombenhle, Inazo, Hawaii, Osisi Bendawo and Tsege Tsege.

The group's achievements included multiple South African Music Awards, with Undisputed winning Album of the Year and Best Kwaito Album at the 2010 ceremony, while Umlilo was crowned MTN Record of the Year. Big Nuz also received Metro FM Music Awards and Channel O Music Video Awards recognition, helping establish Durban's kwaito sound on the national stage.

Big Nuz faced immense tragedy with the passing of R Mashesha on 7 August 2015 following complications from a long illness. After a lengthy hiatus, the trio reunited to release the album R Mashesha in 2022, paying tribute to their late bandmate. Just weeks later, Mampintsha died on 24 December 2022 after suffering a stroke. Today, Danger continues to honour the group's legacy, while Big Nuz's catalogue remains a landmark in South African dance music, remembered for its infectious energy, township storytelling and enduring cultural impact.