Fany Pfumo

Fany Pfumo (also spelled Fany Mpfumo)^[1] (Lourenço Marques, October 18, 1928 – Maputo, November 3, 1987)^[2] was a Mozambican-born singer who was mainly active in South Africa. He is considered one of the founders^[3] and of the prominent artists^[4] in the marrabenta style scene. Born to a poor family, he started his career playing an "oil tin guitar" in Maputo's suburbs^[5] but later moved to South Africa in search of a better living.^[6] In Johannesburg, Pfumo had the opportunity to record with His Master's Voice, achieving international fame with songs such as Loko ni kumbuka Jorgina ("When I remember Georgina"); this one, in particular, remains one of the best known songs of marrabenta and Mozambican pop music.^[6][7] After achieving international fame in South Africa, Pfumo eventually returned to Mozambique.^[6]

Pfumo's trademark style is characterized by the mix of marrabenta rhythms with jazz elements as well as influences of South African kwela music.^[6] He played in a number of bands during the 1950s and 1960s^[8] but also recorded several solo singles.

Partial discography

Singles

Pfumo's singles include:^[4]

• Leswi Wene Unga Xonga
• Famba Ha Hombe
• A Vasati Va Lomu

Compilations

• Nyoxanine^[9]