Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens were a South African musical supergroup prominent from the 1960s onward, widely credited as pioneers of the mbaqanga (township jive) sound. The group was an electric, high-energy fusion of three acts: the powerful, ultra-deep "groaning" vocals of male lead Mahlathini (Simon Nkabinde), the vibrant female harmonies and choreography of the Mahotella Queens, and the driving instrumental backing of the Makgona Tsohle Band. Known as "The Beatles of South Africa" for their immense local success during the apartheid era, they achieved global renown after reuniting in the mid-1980s, performing for Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday tribute and touring extensively worldwide to popularize their distinctive, joyful sound.