Chicco twala biography of mahatma
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His catalogue includes both heartfelt ballads and politically charged anthems that earned him widespread recognition.
Producer, collaborator and the Brenda Fassie connection
Beyond his solo work, Chicco Twala built a sterling reputation as a record producer and songwriter for other major South African artists.
His influence is visible in the generation of musicians he inspired, and in the songs that remain part of the South African soundtrack.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Sello “Chicco” Twala |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 5, 1963 ([age]19630605[/age] years) |
| Place of Birth | Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Occupation | Singer, Record Producer |
| Notable Works | “We Miss You Manelo,” “Too Late for Mama” |
| Awards | Lifetime Achievement South African Music Award, Metro FM Music Award |
| Parents | Elias Twala, Betty Khombo Masitha |
| Spouse | Thembi Twala (former) |
| Children | Longwe Twala, Nowie Twala, Sello Twala (son) |
| Associated Acts | Brenda Fassie, Mzwakhe Mbuli |
Biography
Early Life Sello “Chicco” Twala was born on June 5, 1963, in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa.
He showed an early passion for music and joined local soul and funk bands as a teenager, performing in groups such as Umoja and working with influential peers in the township music scene. Songs such as “Papa Stop the War” became emblematic of a generation and of artists who used music to push back against social injustices.
Twala also wrote songs for and produced the album Memeza, for a comeback by the late Brenda Fassie. Growing up in Soweto, Twala was exposed to the vibrant local music scene, which greatly influenced his future career.
Career Twala’s musical journey began in the 1970s when he played in various soul bands, including Umoja and Harari, led by Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse.
Another major hit, “Too Late for Mama” (1989), performed by Brenda Fassie, was certified platinum and remains one of South Africa’s most iconic songs.
Twala continued to make his mark in the 1990s with the soul ballad “Peace Song” in 1992, which was released just before South Africa’s first democratic elections.
He produced and co-wrote hits for legendary names—most notably Brenda Fassie—helping craft songs that became staples of popular culture. Some of his songs were featured in “The Lion King II,” and his track “Modjadji” appeared on the official soundtrack of the film “Grimsby.”
Through his Soweto-based music studio, Twala has also dedicated himself to nurturing young musical talent, helping to shape the next generation of South African artists.
Personal Life Sello Twala is the son of Elias Twala and Betty Khombo Masitha.
As of 2021, he is 58 years old.
Net Worth
He has an estimated net worth of $1.2 Million.
Albums
- We Don’t Need War (2015)
- Jimama Ji (2007)
- Umagubane (2015)
- Papa Stop The War (2015)
- Mamatilda (2015)
- Modjadji (2015
- Best of (Limited Edition) (2006)
- The Best Of (2007)
Songs
- Papa stop the war
- We Can Dance
- Modjadji
- I Need Some Money
- Umagubane
- Nomari
- Catch That Man
- Tribute to our heroes
- We Miss You Mandela
- Rachimo
- Trouble in the night vigil
- Hi Tshikeni
- Mhane
- Ibambeni
- We Love You Teacher
- Move over
- We miss you Manelow
- Sixolele Baba
- We Don’t Need War
- Thank you my friends
- Khoma Khoma
- Chiccoman
- Xibam Bam
- Going To The Ghetto
- I Need Some Action
- Liyofika Ilanga
- Xarila
- Khetile Khetile
- Thina Sizwe Esimnyama
- Traditional Doctor
- Bola Bopendza
- Masadzi Wa Tshikuma
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Sello “Chicco” Twala is one of South Africa’s most influential musicians and producers.
His song “We Miss You Manelo” (1987) became a massive success, earning a triple-platinum certification from RISA. These early experiences gave him the technical skills and stage presence that would later define his career.
Rise to fame: bands, breakthrough and signature songs
Chicco’s breakthrough came through a combination of charismatic performances and strong songwriting.
He has also created some of South Africa’s hit songs.
| Full Name | Sello Chicco Twala |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1 January 1963 (age 58 years old) |
| Gender | Male |
| Spouse | Thembi (divorced) |
| Occupation | Musician and Producer |
| Nationality | South African |
| Net Worth | $1.2 Million |
Sello Chicco Twala Age
He was born on the 1st of January 1963 in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Twala’s Modjadji was also one of the official soundtracks of the British comedy “The Brothers Grimsby”, a movie released in 2016. His body of work includes both solo releases and numerous production credits.
Has he won awards?
Yes — across his career he has received industry recognition, including lifetime achievement acknowledgments and other music awards.
Is Chicco Twala still active in music?
Yes — he has remained active through performances, production work and partnerships geared toward giving South African artists broader exposure
How did Chicco contribute to anti-apartheid culture?
Through songs with social messaging and public performances that spoke to the realities of the time, Chicco and his peers used music as a tool for expression and resistance.
Conclusion
Sello “Chicco” Twala occupies a special place in South African music history.
He also collaborated with poet Mzwakhe Mbuli on “Papa Stop The War” (1990). For students of modern African music and fans of township pop, Chicco is a living link between the vibrant, politically conscious 1980s and today’s globalized, genre-blending landscape.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
When was Chicco Twala born?
Most reliable biographies list Sello “Chicco” Twala’s birth year as 1963 and describe his origins in Soweto, Johannesburg.
What are Chicco Twala’s most famous songs?
He’s known for tracks like “Papa Stop the War” and for high-profile productions for artists such as Brenda Fassie.
Twala was born in Soweto, Johannesburg. He attended Bopasanatla High School, where his passion for music began to flourish.