Nkosinathi Mankayi, known professionally as Nathi, is a South African singer-songwriter whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have captured the hearts of millions. Born on 23 December 1982 in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, Nathi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians is a story of talent, perseverance, and redemption that continues to inspire fans across the country.
Personal Information
Full name: Nkosinathi Mankayi
Stage name: Nathi
Date of birth: 23 December 1982
Age: 43 years old (as of 2026)
Place of birth: Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Genres: Afropop, Afrosoul
Occupation: Singer-songwriter
Years active: 2000 to present
Record labels: Ghetto Ruff/Muthaland, Gallo Record Company
Children: One child (born 2017)
Early Life and Upbringing
Nkosinathi Mankayi was born on 23 December 1982 in Mthatha, a small town in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. He was raised among five siblings by a single mother, a situation that shaped his character and resilience from an early age.
He grew up in Maclear, Eastern Cape, where he received his education and developed an interest in both music and drawing. His passion for the arts became evident during his school years, laying the foundation for his future career in music.
Life presented significant challenges for the young Nathi. In 2006, he was sentenced to eight years in prison for a robbery-related crime that occurred in 2002. He served four years before his release, a period that would later become a powerful part of his redemption story. This experience deeply influenced his music and his perspective on life, which became evident in the emotional depth of his songwriting.
Career Beginnings: Finding His Voice
With the aim of pursuing a career in music, Nathi competed in a local music competition known as Dare to Dream, which he won. This victory gave him the confidence to continue pursuing his musical ambitions and opened doors to new opportunities.
His breakthrough came in November 2014 when fellow musician Vusi Nova heard him sing. Nova was so impressed that he insisted on featuring Nathi on a song titled Noma Kanjani. The song was well received and went on to receive massive airplay across South Africa, introducing Nathi’s voice to a wider audience and setting the stage for his solo career.
Rise to Stardom: Buyelekhaya and Nomvula
Nathi began recording his debut studio album, Buyelekhaya, in late 2014. The album’s lead single, Nomvula, was released in 2015 and became an instant phenomenon. The song’s emotional lyrics and Nathi’s soulful delivery resonated deeply with listeners, making it one of the most memorable South African songs of the decade.
On 10 March 2015, through Muthaland Entertainment, Nathi released Buyelekhaya to critical acclaim. The album achieved remarkable commercial success, going platinum within six weeks of its release and selling over 128,000 units. It ultimately achieved triple platinum status with sales exceeding 90,000 copies.
At the 22nd South African Music Awards, Nathi won five prestigious awards, with Buyelekhaya winning Best-Selling Album of the Year and Best R&B/Soul/Reggae Album categories. Nomvula won Best Selling Full-Track Download and Song of the Year at the 15th Metro FM Music Awards. He also won Male Artist of the Year and Newcomer of the Year at the SAMAs, establishing himself as a dominant force in South African music.
Career Development: Second Album and Beyond
On 28 October 2016, Nathi released his sophomore album, Umbulelo Wam, which featured 12 tracks. The album charted at number 2 on iTunes and sold over 35,000 units, demonstrating his continued popularity with South African audiences.
He signed a record deal with Gallo Record Company and released his third studio album, Iphupha Labantu, on 27 July 2018. The album won Best African Adult Contemporary Album at the 25th South African Music Awards, further cementing his reputation as one of the country’s premier musical talents.
His fourth studio album, Usiba Lwe Gazi, was released on 21 October 2022. It won Best African Adult Contemporary Album at the 29th South African Music Awards, showing his enduring relevance in the industry.
In 2025, Nathi continued to release new music, including the song Bhunguza Lam with Lazola and others, demonstrating that his creative output remains strong.
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Musical Style and Influences
Nathi’s music is characterized by soulful vocals and emotional depth, blending Afropop and Afrosoul influences. His lyrics often touch on themes of love, redemption, and personal struggle, reflecting his life experiences. His voice has been described as both powerful and vulnerable, capable of conveying deep emotion and connecting with listeners on a personal level.
Personal Life
Nathi has one child, born in 2017. His sister is also a singer, indicating that musical talent runs in his family. He has remained relatively private about his personal life, preferring to let his music speak for itself.
His journey from incarceration to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians is a testament to his resilience and determination. He has transformed his life through music, using his experiences to create art that resonates with millions.
Awards and Achievements
Nathi has received numerous awards throughout his career, including:
15th Metro FM Music Awards (2016): Best African Pop Album, Song of the Year
22nd South African Music Awards (2016): Male Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Best R&B/Soul/Reggae Album, Best Selling Album, Best Selling Full-Track Download
25th South African Music Awards (2019): Best African Adult Contemporary Album for Iphupha Labantu
29th South African Music Awards (2023): Best African Adult Contemporary Album for Usiba Lwe Gazi
Discography
Studio Albums
Buyelekhaya (2015) – Debut album featuring the hit single Nomvula. Achieved triple platinum status.
Umbulelo Wam (2016) – Second album featuring 12 tracks. Charted at number 2 on iTunes.
Iphupha Labantu (2018) – Third studio album released under Gallo Record Company. Won Best African Adult Contemporary Album.
Usiba Lwe Gazi (2022) – Fourth studio album. Won Best African Adult Contemporary Album.
Singles as Lead Artist
Qeqe (Emathandweni) (2018)
Igazi (2021)
Home Boiiz with Elten BPE (2024)
Bhunguza Lam with Lazola and others (2025)
Legacy and Impact on South African Music
Nathi’s impact on South African music extends beyond his commercial success. His journey from humble beginnings, through personal struggles, to becoming one of the country’s most celebrated artists is an inspiring story of redemption and perseverance. His music continues to touch the hearts of listeners, and his soulful voice remains a defining sound in contemporary South African Afropop.
As he continues to create new music and evolve as an artist, Nathi’s legacy is secure as one of South Africa’s most talented and beloved musicians. His story serves as a reminder that talent and determination can overcome even the most difficult circumstances, inspiring a new generation of artists in South Africa and beyond.