South African music legend Thandiswa Mazwai, affectionately known as “King Tha,” has been honoured as one of NPR's “10 Best Tiny Desk Concerts of 2024” for her captivating April performance in Washington, D.C.
National Public Radio (NPR) is a renowned American media platform that specialises in music, world news, science, business, and arts and culture. One of its most beloved and iconic features is the Tiny Desk Concert video series, which showcases intimate performances by artists from around the world.
In April, South African music icon Thandiswa Mazwai, also known as “King Tha,” delivered a spiritual and breathtaking Tiny Desk performance in Washington, D.C., performing her well-known and cherished hits such as “Nizalwa Ngobani?” and “Ingoma.” Her performance left the audience in awe and her local fans proud.
Mazwai's performance stood out for its emotional intensity, as she poured her heart and soul into the Tiny Desk setting. It’s no surprise that she is now listed as one of the best Tiny Desk Concerts of 2024.
“Every time I watch King Tha's Tiny Desk, it's a spiritual experience that stirs up a multitude of feelings. There is a sense of pride and honor that radiates from this performance; majestic, even,” says Suraya Mohamed, Tiny Desk executive producer.
She adds that Mazwai’s performance evoked a profound sense of peace and a boldness of faith, instilling hope despite the societal challenges that plague the world we live in.
The “Nizalwa Ngobani?” hitmaker shared her excitement on X, posting the news and thanking the Tiny Desk team for the recognition.
Her fans also congratulated her in the comments. X user @ejazzsoc wrote: “Richly deserved! Yours is one of those that I revisit as often as possible.”
Richly deserved! Yours is one of those that I revisit as often as possible.
— Ntokozo Ntshangase (@ejazzsoc) December 21, 2024
Meanwhile, @jojo_zondani commented: “I'm not surprised. Congratulations, Tha!”
💯💯💯...I'm not surprised 😎....congratulations Tha https://t.co/9GwgdvrtlI
Other artists featured in the top ten include Doechii, Chaka Khan, LaRussell, TV On The Radio, Nathy Peluso, 311, The LOX, and Tierra Whack.