Rooted in the spirit of brotherhood and the rhythms of Venda, Murumba Pitch has become a heartbeat of South African music.
Led in part by Emmanuel Mathye, whose Venda heritage brings a deep sense of soul and authenticity to the group, they have captured hearts from Limpopo to global stages. His fellow band member is Thabang Innocent Mangolo (Maeywon) and their journey, which started in 2012, is marked by fearless storytelling and a commitment to emotional truth.
In this conversation, Mathye opens up about their beginnings, the personal growth shaping the group's future, the challenges they have faced, and the road ahead for Murumba Pitch.
Q – Let us start at the beginning — where did it all begin for Murumba Pitch?
A – It all started with a simple dream rooted in brotherhood and a love for storytelling through music. We were not chasing trends; we were creating from the heart. From bedroom sessions to small gigs where people cried to our harmonies, we knew our mission was clear: to make music that feels like home. That authenticity shaped everything Murumba Pitch has become.
Q – Amapiano has grown rapidly. How did you carve your own space within the genre?
A – We respected the roots but planted our own. While Amapiano evolved with party anthems and hard-hitting beats, we focused on the soul and emotion behind the sound. By fusing live instruments, heartfelt vocals and meaningful lyrics, we offered something different — music you do not just dance to, but feel.
Q – Your music is known for its emotional depth. How do your personal experiences shape it?
A – Everything we sing comes from real experiences. Whether it is heartbreak, hope or healing, our stories are layered with what we have lived through. Raised in communities that taught us resilience and love, we pour those lessons into every verse and melody. People connect because it reflects their own lives too.
Q – Every journey has challenges. What were some of the toughest moments for the group?
A – Fame came fast, and it does not come with a manual. Exhaustion, miscommunication and fear of losing ourselves nearly pulled us apart. But we always return to our foundation: respect, trust and a deep love for the craft. That keeps us grounded.
Q – There has been talk about changes within the group. What is the truth?
A – Change is natural during growth. The foundation of Murumba Pitch remains strong. We are exploring solo ventures and personal growth, but it does not mean separation — it means expansion. We are finding new ways to honour the brand and ourselves.
Q – Fans say Murumba Pitch is more than music. How do you preserve that feeling as you grow?
A – We never forget why we started. Whether performing in Johannesburg or a village in Limpopo, we show up with the same heart. Our sound may evolve, but our soul stays the same. Every song and every performance is about preserving that original feeling.
Q – Mathye, your name has been buzzing in business circles. Can you share more about your ventures outside music?
A – Music taught me vision; business taught me structure. I focus on creating platforms that empower young South Africans — spaces where creativity and individuality are celebrated. My background in Venda showed me the importance of opportunity, and now I aim to open doors for others through entrepreneurship, collaboration and cultural projects.
Q – How do you balance being part of Murumba Pitch while building your independent ventures?
A – It is not easy, but it is possible when you lead with purpose. Murumba Pitch is my heartbeat; my independent work is my breath. Each journey inspires the other. It is about growth, not division.
Q – Being seen as a national treasure comes with pride and pressure. How do you carry that title?
A – It is humbling. Being seen as a national treasure reminds us that we are vessels, not just artists. We carry people's stories and shift energy in every space we enter. We wear that responsibility with grace.
Q – Looking ahead, what can fans expect — evolution or revolution?
A – Both. We are evolving musically, experimenting, collaborating and growing. But we are also part of a revolution where artists reclaim their voices and stories. Murumba Pitch is more than a duo; it is a movement. This next chapter will shake the ground just like our first note did.
Q – Some final words?
A – Murumba Pitch is more than a duo; it is a mirror of the nation's heartbeat. As we grow, we are taking our people with us. Thank you for walking this journey with us. The best is still to come.