Yvonne+Chaka+Chaka

Nicknamed “The Princess of Africa," Yvonne Chaka Chaka has been the image of South African music for over twenty years. The world famous singer was born in 1965, when Apartheid was still alive and powerful. However, Yvonne still effectively made her mark on her home country through the catchy and exciting music she has created and her enormous passion for inspiring and helping others.

Chaka Chaka was raised and brought up in Dobsonville, Soweto, a township in the greater part of the city. Growing up was not easy for Yvonne. Her father died when she was only nine years old, leaving her mother to raise her and her three sisters without anyone to turn to. Throughout Chaka Chaka’s career she has always referenced how strong of a woman her mother was and how she had always been her inspiration. Although Yvonne always sang while growing up, the public didn’t know her voice until the year of 1981, at only sixteen years old, Yvonne Chaka Chaka became the first black child to appear on South African television. "Sugar Shack,” a popular televised talent show, allowed Chaka Chaka to sing on air. Her career took off in 1985 when Phil Hollis of Dephon Records discovered her talent in the city of Johannesburg. Shortly after, her debut album, "I’m in Love With a DJ" was released, the record sold nearly 35,000 copies and the title track was an immediate hit. Later on, Yvonne released more hit singles that boomed throughout her home country. These hits included “I Cry For Freedom,” ”Motherland,” “Makoti,” and her incredibly popular “Umqombothi (African Beer).” Her music has brought much joy and pride to the people of South Africa.  Outside of being a musician, Yvonne is a mother of four sons and a humanitarian. Chaka Chaka is the leader of an organization nicknamed “The Princess of Africa Foundation.” Within the program she speaks about global issues such as malaria, education, and women's rights. Because of her incredible passion of caring and helping for others, Yvonne Chaka Chaka is not only looked at as a symbol, but a role model for the people of South Africa. Whether it’s her music or her compassionate attitude, Yvonne Chaka Chaka has, and will always be, dancing within the beat of South Africa’s heart.