Long Way Down - Soundtrack To The TV Series From Real World Records

Doreen Thobekile

Doreen Thobekile image

Doreen is a Kwazulu roots diva of immaculate pedigree. She was lead singer with Trans Global Underground, for many years across many continents; one third of the legendary Shikisha trio; Chachouka; star of Ipi Tombi, West End show of the late '70's. Also, she's a solo roots star with a phenomenal voice and squeeze box, singing Zulu songs and rhythms. An accomplished, singer, dancer and instrumentalist, Doreen was born in Natal then grew up in Durban, South Africa. She plays African instruments such as mbira and umqangala.... when Doreen sings the whole world seems to stop and listen to a voice that could well have kicked off the Big Bang' Straight No Chaser. The CD, London Zulu is a collaboration between Doreen and the production and programming skills of UK global fusion merchants Trans-Global Underground. While plenty of South African music has found an audience in the UK theres been less music from the South African British diaspora that leans on both its African and European roots. London Zulu is a record by an artist equally at home playing playback club dates in London, kwaito, Afrobeat, township jive, jazz soul and hiphop. It takes a long time and much effort to distill experiences as wild, adventurous and as strange as Doreens into one record. It can take a whole career.