Simon ‘Mahlathini’ Nkabinde (1937 - 1999) was a South African mbaqanga singer. Known as the "Lion of Soweto" (which the name "Mahlathini" translates to), Nkabinde was the most distinguished of the basso-profundo "groaners" of black South African music and the acknowledged original of a mbaqanga sub-style known as mqashiyo, the indestructible beat. Early career and life As a young boy, Nkabinde would sing in choirs at Zulu wedding ceremonies (reference: GMPV 9, Mbaqanga at its Best!).