The Legacy Series Presents Joe Nina

Joe Nina (Makhosini Henry Xaba) - Legendary South African Artist, Songwriter & Producer

Makhosini Henry Xaba — better known by his stage name Joe Nina — continues to embody brilliance in South African music, seamlessly blending his rich legacy with fresh, modern expression. A true innovator, he remains as relevant today as in his early days.

Over the years, Joe Nina has been honored with several South African Music Awards (SAMAs). He has won three SAMAs: Best African Pop Album in 2000 and 2001, and Best Alternative African Music Album in 2010. In 2022, he was awarded a SAMA Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of his long-standing contribution to the South African music industry.

Joe Nina has also cultivated a formidable reputation as a producer and songwriter. He has written for or produced more than 50 artists, including luminaries such as Ringo Madlingozi, Ray Phiri, Sibongile Khumalo, Tsepo Tshola, Babsey Mlangeni, Steve Kekana and Brenda Fassie, Stombie Mavi and Professor. His production credits and deep musical craftsmanship have shaped the broader South African soundscape.

In 2023, Joe Nina released “Mama”, a deeply personal single honouring his mother, Mabore Lettie Makgoro, underlining his gratitude and reverence for the women who shaped his life. That same year, he revisited his timeless classic “S’Bali”, collaborating with the Hullabaloos to give it an amapiano makeover — a bold reimagining of one of his signature songs.

As a mentor and producer, Joe Nina’s influence is felt through his work with emerging artists. Under his label Killa Joe Records, he produced Nina Stamper’s soulful track “Kancane”, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to developing South African talent.

In July 2025, he dropped the single “Persevere (Phola)”, reaffirming his artistic evolution and his capacity to speak to resilience and hope through music.

A highlight of his recent live performance calendar came in September 2024, when he performed at the 25th Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival in Johannesburg. There, he shared the stage with the South African Air Force Band, delivering a powerful set as part of the special “Joe Nina Reframed” collaboration.

Beyond his creative output, Joe Nina continues to receive recognition for both his legacy and his forward-looking vision. His ongoing work as a producer and mentor — combined with his fearless curiosity in fusing genres — affirms his role as a bridge between generations and as a pillar of South Africa’s cultural soundtrack.

The End!