RINGO MADLINGOZI

Based in Johannesburg

Multi-talented vocalist, drummer, percussionist, guitarist, songwriter and producer Ringo Madlingozi is one of South Africa’s strongest live performing acts. He is however no newcomer to the music scene, and has perservered through a succession of bands, and session work which has had him recording with artists as diverse as Hugh Masekela, Simply Red, Teddy Pendergrass (The Power of One) and Caiphus Semenya, as well as for the movie The Lion King.

Born in Cape Town in 1964, Ringo spent his childhood and school days in Gugulethu township, but finished high school in Umtata. Ringo was musically active from a young age, and while at school, led an a capella group which performed at community and youth functions. He later became vocalist for the group "Ikwezi", but it was to be as frontman for the band "Peto", that his unique vocal talents were first recognized nationally.

Peto won the national "Shell Road to Fame" talent competition in 1986, which brought the band - and Ringo - national exposure, with television coverage, touring engagements, and the role of support act for the King’s Trust" concert in Swaziland which was headlined by Eric Clapton.

Peto soon disbanded, and Ringo moved base to Johannesburg, where he spent the early 1990's as a member of Gecko Moon. During this time, he also did a lot of studio session work - for radio commercials, film, and album recordings

Ringo’s first album, Vukani ("Wake Up!") was released in 1996, during which year he also served as a support act when Papa Wemba toured South Africa as part of the Re-Connection Programme.

His second album, Sondelani ("Get Closer") was released late in 1997, and with its themes of reconciliation and national unity, carried a strong message for South African people. The album achieved Double Platinum status in sales, awards, and major airplay. This has ensured that Ringo has remained a sought after act on the performing circuit in South Africa.

Ringo is also in-demand as a creative collaborator and has worked with renowned local and international stars from Mandoza to UB40 as well as gospel greats, Avante, saxophonist, McCoy Mrubata, trumpeter Prince Lengoasa and Maskandi diva, and Busi Mhlongo, amongst others.