Chicco Twala is a 61-year-old South African musician and producer who shot to stardom in the 1980s following his solo career and collaborations with famous stars like Benda Fassie, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Nkosana Kodi.
Although now divorced, Chicco was married to Thembi, and their union was blessed with 2 kids namely, Longwe Twala and Nowie Zanele Twala.
He Had His Major Career Breakthrough in 1987
Chicco began his music career in the 1970s, playing in soul bands like Umoja and Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse. However, he went solo and also took on music production in the 1980s.
He became increasingly well-known in 1987 after his first triple platinum record, particularly with songs like We Miss You Manelo, which referenced Nelson Mandela and the quest for freedom. Mandela was still a prisoner on Robben Island at the time the song was released.
In addition, Brenda Fassie’s song Too Late for Mama (1989), which was produced by Twala, went platinum. This success further increased Twala’s popularity.”
In 1992, Chicco’s soul song Peace Song added to the musician’s fame. Moreover, it was produced shortly before the first democratic elections in South Africa, and this made it a sensation. Additionally, he co-wrote the popular song Papa Stop the War in 1990 alongside poet Mzwakhe Mbuli.
Moreover, Twala wrote songs for and produced the album Memeza, for a comeback by the late Brenda Fassie. He has also written songs for Disney’s Lion King II.
For his numerous impressive works, Twala has clinched several honors and awards. Notably, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the 12th annual Metro FM Music Awards that took place in Durban in February 2013.
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His Marriage to Thembi Crashed on Allegations of Infidelity
As earlier noted, the South African musician was married to Thembi. Although Thembi was born and raised in South Africa, nothing is known about her early years or family history. However, Chicco Twala was born on June 5, 1963, in Soweto, Johannesburg.
Details about how Thembi and Twala met have not been made public. Also, the exact day they got married is not known. However, their union was blessed with 2 kids before they opted for divorce.
According to Twala, his ex-wife cheated on him during their marriage, and that is the reason why they went their separate ways.
Twala’s Kids are all entertainers
Longwe is Twala’s first child, and he has followed the entertainment career path of his father. Although the celebrity kid comes from a respected family, he has involved himself in many controversies that have given him a negative image in the public space.
His father has confirmed that Longwe has been taken for rehabilitation several times because of his drug addiction.
He was also alleged to have murdered a South African Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Senzo Robert Meyiwa. Meyiwa was shot on October 26, 2014, during an alleged robbery at Kelly Khumalo’s home in Vosloorous, east of Johannesburg. Unfortunately, he was later declared dead on arrival at the hospital.
Following the footballer’s death, there were speculations that Longwe killed the footballer and his friends were covering up for him. He was arrested and charged, but he was later granted bail. To date, it has not been proven that he was responsible for the footballer’s murder.
Meanwhile, Chicco’s daughter is a DJ, and she performs with the nickname DJ Z’ne. She appears to have a very cordial relationship with her father and has once mentioned that he is her inspiration and mentor.
What is Chicco Twala’s net worth?
Chicco Twala’s net worth is currently estimated at $1.2 million, and he has amassed the better part of this sum through his entertainment career of 45 years. Furthermore, he has also earned a lot from his work as a property developer and publisher. He has a publishing house called Chicco Publishing. He also runs a communications agency with his business partner, Solly Segalo. The name of the agency is Blue Flame.
5 Quick Facts About Chicco Twala
1. Twala was born in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa. Also, he attended Bopasanatla High School.
2. Twala is passionate about nurturing young talents. These talents are not limited to singing alone but also include sound engineering. To support young talent in South Africa, he owns and runs studios in Soweto.
3. In addition to music, Twala has also been producing low-cost comedy films.
4. Chicco is an avid lover of sports, and his interest in soccer has put him in charge of the Moroka Swallows and Ria Stars, respectively.
5. The entertainer has participated in many campaigns against apartheid laws and some of his songs were geared towards freedom and the release of Nelson Mandela.
