Music runs in his bloodline as he was the heir to the founder of the Malombo music, Dr Philip Tabane. Despite his father's worldly and international status, Thabang Tabane (45) earned his reputation as a music genius. He has travelled to Russia, Togo, Sweden, London and the USA with Malombo playing for Thandiswa Mazwai. On 29 January, his family confirmed his tragic he was no more but are yet to disclose the nature in which he passed.

SADDENED

Thandiswa shared her grief on the passing of the legendary son. "I am devastated to share the heartbreaking news that our beloved percussionist Thabang Tabane (46) passed away earlier today,' she said. "This is an unimaginable loss and we are all struggling to process it.' She added that Thabang was not only an incredible musician but also a dear friend, a source of inspiration and a vital part of her music as a band. "His presence, energy and spirit will be deeply missed, both on and off the stage. He leaves behind his children and the Malombo drums lay silent,' she said.

TRIBUTES

Tributes, remembering the music genius, that was Thabang, have come pouring in. "I'm saddened by the passing of the young lion... World-renowned, gifted, talented, and multi-award-winning, Mamelodi's finest Thabang Tabane,' Zandi Nkosi said. "Thabang Tabane, the son of the legendary Philip Tabane, was a significant figure in South African music. He was known for his unique drumming style and his efforts to keep the spirit of Malombo music alive. His death is a profound loss for the music community. Rest in peace, Thabang Tabane(mfanaka). Your legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate,' she added.

A LEGACY

Growing up, Thabang learnt to play drums by watching his father and uncle Mabi Thobejane and was inspired. As a teenager, he played in his father's band. In 2002, he worked with his uncle on the recording of his album with established musicians, produced by Ben Amato. He later emerged from his shadow and carved a new path for himself, sounding nothing like his father and was inspired by West African musicians Boureima Farka Touré and Femi Kuti. His father's sound was influenced by his grandmother, who was a traditional healer and healed patients by singing to them. His father died in 2018.