Founded in 2007 by cousins, Philani “PMP” Ndlovu and Sihle “Ma7”Mazibuko, Fifty-50 Family is quickly becoming South Africa’s favourite home grown Hip Hop/ Urban Gospel group. 2011 marked the year the band was noticed for their achievements and were nominated for ‘Best Urban Gospel Album’ at the South African Music Awards.
Originally Kwaito stars in their home towns of Escourt and Lady Smith, the experience brought PMP and Ma7 to the realization that their talents should be used to strongly impact the youth of Africa. Redefining their lives and their music from Kwaito to Hip Hop, the duo joined forces with Siyabonga“Mawat” Xulu and Melusi “Sheppard” Mbola. The Fifty-50 Family was born in Durban, and the group gained more fans with their crossover sound. With a young and fresh urban image the group base their music on three key principles: one, the beat catches your ear; two, the image stuns your eyes; and three, the message changes your heart and soul.
With their roots firmly planted in Durban Christian Centre and it’s discipleship principles, The Fifty-50 Family describe themselves as the “new breed” of young Christians. Mawat explains, “You may see the “swag” and mistake us for worldy artists, but the bible versed t-shirts and our music reflect who we truly are, born-again young ministers.” The group are extremely involved with feeding schemes, leadership and drama within the church.
Inspired by the legendary Gospel artist Kirk Franklin, each show is high tempo and energetic, creating an electrifying live performance that leaves fans energized. Balancing that, the group always ends a performance with a moment of worship where the crowd is known to tear up with the very real presence of God.
Integrity Africa, South Africa’s largest Christian music distribution company took note of this talent and ministry and recently signed a licensing deal with the group. “Welcome The Fifty-50 Family to the Integrity Media Africa family we look forward to you taking us on an exciting journey, engaging with the youth of South Africa”, says the company’s director Nurden Cross.
The key to successfully ministering to youth is to remain relevant, and the group focuses on real issues. Just one example is, ‘Thina Sobabili’ (Track17) from their latest album Kazi Kuyoba Njani speaks about love, aiming to restore love over lust. “We believe it will reunite many couples and encourage the atmosphere of love to fill our lives. It was also inspired by the ever increasing rate of divorce in South Africa, this is a counter attack to the current reigning spirit in many marriages today”, adds Mawat.
To date, The Fifty-50 Family have shared the stage with international Hip Hop superstar Da Truth, as well as musical geniuses Sifiso Ncwane, Sipho Makhabane and Hlengiwe Mhlaba. The Fifty-50 Family sees success as fulfilling their calling. “Success is above money, because the parable of the servants with their talents does not speak about their money, but that they were faithful to follow through the instruction by their Master, which therefore classified them as successful.”
This faithful and highly driven band, has a demanding touring schedule that sees them perform countrywide. More information on their gig’s can be found on their Facebook Group Page: Fifty 50 Family.
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