Qadasi

David Jenkins, also known as Qadasi, is an accomplished Maskandi musician who developed a deep passion for Zulu culture and music at a young age growing up in Empangeni, right in the heart of Zululand.
Now based in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, David is following his dream of being a professional Maskandi musician and is proud to be a two-time SAMA (South African Music Award) and two-time SATMA (South African Traditional Music Achievement) Award nominee.

With two solo albums and a collaborative release featuring friend and fellow Maskandi artist, Maqhinga Radebe, Qadasi’s quest to revive traditional Zulu Maskandi music is well underway.
Over the past several years, Qadasi has accomplished a great deal as a South African artist, with some of his achievements including performances in the USA, Europe and Asia, and a performance at the 2015 SAMA Awards live show.

His two solo albums, Child of Africa (2011) and Uhambo Olusha (2014) encapsulate influences from many of his idols, ranging from the likes of Phuzekhemisi and Mfaz’ Omnyama to Johnny Clegg and Paul Simon.

In early 2016, Qadasi went on to record a collaborative album alongside close friend and mentor, Maqhinga Radebe, titled, “Lashis’ Ilanga” – an organic, acoustic fusion of traditional Maskandi and western folk music. This was nominated for a 2017 SAMA Award for Best Traditional Album.