DLUBHEKE Khuzwayo is probably the youngest maskandi musician in the local music industry.

DLUBHEKE Khuzwayo is probably the youngest maskandi musician in the local music industry.

Khuzwayo, 15, who comes from Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, is the son of famous producer Shobeni Khuzwayo of Izingane Zoma.

Unlike his peers, who have opted for hip-hop and kwaito music, Khuzwayo is doing a mature sound. His debut album, Siqhathw'eNquthu, which has just hit the market, is in an exciting offering.

With the passion and talent Khuzwayo is showing he is going places.

Siqhathw'eNquthu is mix of both the Izingane Zoma and Mgqumeni Khumalo's maskandi style. The songs in the album are composed by him and have a strong message.

Through his music the KwaZulu-Natal youngster speaks to the youth about critical issues.

"When I wrote the songs I looked at what affects the youth and the community and I also warn the youth to be vigilant about certain issues," says Khuzwayo, who is also a guitarist.

One of his song, Aphelil'amasoka, talks about HIV and Aids. The young singer aims the message at all womanisers, warning them that if they don't change they will die young.

"I am telling men who still believe that being a womaniser proves that they are real men that they will die early, while moral and upright men will live longer."

Asked why he chose maskandi music instead of kwaito he says: "I grew up listening to African traditional music, so it became a first choice.

"I have watched my father succeed at what he does with his group and wished to be like him."