Don Laka

Donald Mahwetša Laka (born 15 December 1958 in Mamelodi, Pretoria), professionally known as Don Laka, is a South African jazz musician, songwriter and music producer, as well as the founder of "kwaai-jazz".

Laka finished studying at the Royal Academy of Music with Grade 8 in classical guitar, but restrictions under the Apartheid regime kept him from enrolling at the Pretoria Conservatoire. In 1969 he went on to form his first band, and recorded for the first time in 1972 with featured Ray Phiri on guitar. After finishing 12th grade in 1978, he undertook formal training, eventually obtaining his license to teach music in high school in 1979. From 1980 to 1981 he joined the afro-fusion group Sakhile, formed by Sipho Gumede and Khaya Mahlangu, which revolutionised South African music and set the scene for groups like Bayete.

Kwaai-Jazz

Laka describes kwaai-jazz as a fusion of South African music styles including kwaito, kwela and marabi with jazz to create a more a soulful sound. "In the late 80s and early 90s jazz music was not widely played on radio – or anywhere else – in South Africa for nearly 20 years. I needed a way to bring jazz to young people... Since jazz consists of different categories of music, like blues and Japanese jazz, among others, I wanted something that South Africans could identify with". – Don Laka, IOL

Discography Albums 2019: I Wanna Be Myself 2019: Passion 2019: Re-Birth of Kwaai Jazz 2018: Poison 2017: Reflections 2016: Boogie Breakdown: South African Synth Disco 2015: Afro Chopin 2014: Portraits 2008: Paradise 2007: Invitation 2002: Armageddon 2001: Pyramid 1998: Super Nova 1997: Destiny 1991: Lost Time 1987: Smile 1984: I Wanna Be Myself 1982: Going Crazy

Singles & EPs 1986: Stages of Love (EP)