Born in Thohoyandou and rooted in tradition, Magic Strings is emerging as one of Limpopo's most distinctive musical voices. Led by acoustic guitarist and songwriter Dr Tom Mariba, the band blends elements of jazz, classical, Afropop and soul to create a sound that is both nostalgic and boundary-pushing.
Formed between 2022 and 2023, the band took shape while Mariba was recording songs for his YouTube channel, Beautiful Guitars. The initial plan was to release the tracks individually, but the positive response from collaborators inspired him to compile the work into a full album under a new name — Magic Strings. Their debut offering, One Night in Vegas, set the tone for a sound deeply rooted in tradition while refusing to be confined by genre.
"The music of Albert Mundalamo, Eric Mukhese, April Ramuvhi and Solomon Maposa influenced me greatly," says Mariba. "I learnt guitar from my late uncle Mr Robert Ngobeni. Those foundations continue to shape our style."
Magic Strings has since gained momentum across South Africa and abroad. While Mariba did not expect the music to resonate so widely, the group's blend of organic instrumentation and lyrical depth has struck a chord with diverse audiences.
One of the band's defining traits is its live sound. Songs were intentionally recorded to allow for seamless translation to the stage — a choice that has not gone unnoticed by radio presenters and listeners. "It was systematic and deliberate," Mariba says. "We wanted the music to breathe."
The band's core line-up includes Mariba on acoustic guitar, Hangwi Netshifhefhe on vocals, Blessing Mudzanani on electric guitar, and producer Mulalo Mukwevho, who also plays bass, keyboards and programmed drums.
Though primarily centred on Afropop, Magic Strings moves freely across genres. "When a song comes, it comes," says Mariba. "Even if it is not in our core genre, we embrace it."
The group's debut single, Khanyisile Come Home, encapsulates their sound — textured, emotive and melodically rich. More singles are on the way, including Zwothe Zwi Do Fhela, Ntate Nelson Mandela and the title track, One Night in Vegas, which is already available in visual form on social media.