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Since his eminence during the late 2010s, Navigator Gcwensa has steadily grown to become a luminary and a leading voice within the modern Maskandi scene. Born Sithembiso Lindokuhle Gcwensa in 1994 and growing up in Empangeni, rural KwaZulu-Natal, Navigator has always been surrounded by music. His mother used to play and sing songs from Maskandi greats like Izingane Zoma and Umgqumeni around the house, and his father took part in Zulu traditional dancing. The music bug would then naturally bite a teenage Sithembiso, and he would become a backup singer, performing gospel songs in and around his local community. Through his uncle’s influence and persuasion, Navigator pivoted towards singing Maskandi during the late 2000s. However, it was his University peers and a mentor’s support that made him professionally record his own compositions in 2017. He took up the name Navigator, a direct translation of his childhood nickname Nkombandlela, as it would be easier to pronounce and remember around his Pretoria circle of friends, and kept his real surname in order to never forget who he is and where he comes from. Inspired by bands such as Shabalala Rhythm, Navigator’s approach to Maskandi is non-complex and easier on the ear; his writing style and cadence are intentionally intended to appeal to a wider audience. From his messaging down to his compositions, he explores everyday conversations and topical themes, and often employs women features and backing vocalists.
