Zakes Bantwini preparing for retirement. Close friends, business partners, and friends did not scrimp on the black tie theme. The who’s who of the music industry attended Zakhele “Zakes Bantwini” Madida‘s 40th birthday celebration yesterday at the Mercedes Benz offices in Sandton, Johannesburg. Numerous celebrities graced the ceremony, including Nomcebo Zikode, T-Bo Touch, Nomalanga Shozi, Shekinah, and Don Design.

The Grammy Award winner received brand-new wheels from Mercedes Benz, and his pals sent him well wishes for a long and prosperous life. Zakes wanted to see the South African music scene expand. Zakes claims that South African artists and creatives are dissatisfied in a direct address to the minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, who attended his birthday celebration.

“I know that this is not parliament, but we are frustrated in the industry, we are looking up to you. We want to drive this country forward,” he says.

“This is a moment of peace and solutions of what South Africa should be. We need your guidance and support to address our issues. We know you have just assumed your position, but we want to say you have our support. Social changes and cohesion happen with sports, arts, and culture.”

At the glamorous occasion, Zakes also declares that his six years in the music industry have been eye-opening and fruitful and that, following the publication of his eagerly awaited final album, Abantu, he is getting ready to retire.

“Abantu is about working together towards unity that transcends social class through music and language because it does not see geographical location, race, age, gender, or political views.”

Zakes does, however, intend to continue working at his label, Mayonie, where he is a music executive, and to pursue other business opportunities. Zakes announced the release of his last studio album via a press release from his label. “Zakes Bantwini has confirmed his final studio album, titled “Abantu”, set for release in November.”