Burning Fire is a South African reggae and gospel music band, renowned for their soulful melodies and uplifting messages. Formed in 2019, the band is a strategic musical alliance among passionate musicians: Khuthadzo "Ambasada" Mavhusha, Freeboy "Mufeelister" Mbengeni, and Ronald "DJ Light" Mahumele. Their dedication to music has earned them recognition, including the prestigious SATMA and LIMA awards.
Khuthadzo "Ambasada" Mavhusha, the eldest member and leader of the group, grew up in Tshifudi, a village outside Thohoyandou, deeply inspired by reggae music through his uncle, Calvin Mavhusha. As a songwriter, vocalist, and performer, Ambasada began recording music in 2017, embarking on his journey to the musical spotlight.
Freeboy "Mufeelister" Mbengeni initially pursued hip-hop in 2008, collaborating with artists like Coolfelo and Prifix. However, in 2012, he transitioned to reggae, inspired by his brother Ambasada. With over a decade in the music industry, Freeboy has honed his skills as a songwriter, vocalist, and performer.
Ronald "DJ Light" Mahumele, a musical prodigy from Tshaulu village, demonstrated his musical inclination from an early age. Known for his courteous and friendly nature, DJ Light brings expertise in sound engineering, production, songwriting, and performance, adding depth to the group’s sound.
Burning Fire’s music blends reggae and gospel influences, delivering powerful messages of hope, healing, and inspiration. Their debut album, Dzanga la Mesia, was released on December 20, 2019, under Director Maboko Music, a division of Director Maboko (Pty) Ltd. The album was recorded between 2018 and 2019 at Kalamawe Studios, with executive direction from Romeo Maboko Maboko and Nthabiseng Sandra Maake. DJ Light produced the tracks, assisted by Ambasada, ensuring an impeccable sound. The album featured collaborations with artists such as Batondy, Ndadzi One, 40Ks, and Ramza One and was met with widespread acclaim.
Burning Fire made a significant impact with their performance at the Les Royals Reggae Festival on December 15, 2019. As their fanbase grew, they continued releasing music, including the 2020 single Pombani Mbanzhe, made available for free downloads during the COVID-19 lockdown. Subsequent releases included Don’t Let We Die featuring Ndadzi One, Mudzimu Ndi Black, and Mma, all available on digital platforms. The music video for Don’t Let We Die, inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, premiered on YouTube on August 31, 2020.
In response to high demand, Burning Fire released Emmanuel featuring Batondy on January 31, 2021, followed by Fola Langa on February 24, 2021. On March 3, 2021, they released the Vhurena Hau EP, produced by DJ Light, featuring collaborations with 40Ks, Ndadzi One, CoolFelo, Askay, and Pfesesani Murendi. The band was also featured on Haya Ha Muzika Mixtape Vol. 1 in June 2021, alongside various artists from Director Maboko Music.
In October 2021, Burning Fire released Ho Khudaho, leading up to their second album Miloro, which dropped on December 9, 2021. The 14-track album, produced by DJ Light, featured collaborations with Batondy, Laz, Vha Dogi, and Ndadzi One. Recorded between 2020 and 2021, Miloro further cemented their place in the music industry, with multiple tracks receiving airplay on national and local radio stations.
On July 30, 2022, Burning Fire was nominated for Best Reggae Artist/Group at the South African Traditional Music Achievement (SATMA) Awards, held in Emalahleni/Witbank, Mpumalanga. The band won the award for their song Mukonisi from Miloro. Additionally, at the Limpopo Music Awards (LIMA), they won Best Tshivenda Song for Mukonisi and were nominated for Best Reggae and Best Tshivenda Hit.
In 2022, Burning Fire members explored solo projects. Freeboy released Ndi Pfa U Vhavha on March 2, followed by DJ Light’s Muzika featuring Vha Dogi, Mr Lover X, and Burning Fire in April. DJ Light also released an EP, Road To Zion, on May 6, 2022, in collaboration with Ndadzi One, featuring artists like Sims Mal, Mr Lover, Lazlow, Rass Teedow, and more. Burning Fire was also featured on Haya Ha Muzika (Mixtape) Volume 2, released on June 18, 2022.
After a brief hiatus, Burning Fire is back in the studio, working on their highly anticipated third album, set for release in 2025. They recently dropped the single Khulunoni on January 29, 2025, available for streaming and downloads worldwide.
For bookings and inquiries, contact:
📧 Email: bookings@directormaboko.co.za
📞 Phone: (+27) 79 3404 951/ 062 3495 130/ 082 710 6418
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE. SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES AND STAY CONNECTED TO ALBUMS WE RELEASE!