Nana Coyote

Tsietsi Daniel Motijoane, universally known as Nana Coyote (1955–2010), was a legendary Lesotho-born South African vocalist whose powerful and versatile voice defined a pivotal era of South African music. Revered for his dynamic vocal shifts—from a smooth falsetto to a distinct, electrifying growl—he earned the enduring nickname “The Wild Dog.”

Nana Coyote’s career was characterised by successful forays across Mbaqanga, Pop, R&B, and Soul, with his most significant contribution coming as a lead vocalist for the iconic band Stimela, which he joined in 1984. His voice is immortalised on their classic, global hit “Whispers in the Deep (Phinda Mzala).”

Beyond his work with Stimela and earlier groups like The Black Five and Uhuru (Sankomota), Coyote maintained a notable solo career, releasing several successful albums like Current (1986) and Majaja (2003). His enduring popularity was further cemented by the unforgettable 1986 duet, “Take Your Love,” with fellow music legend Steve Kekana.

In 2016, his profound and soulful legacy was posthumously recognised with a SAMA Lifetime Achievement Award at the South African Music Awards.

Music Genre:

African Jazz | Soul | Afro/Pop | R&B | Mbaqanga

Instruments:

Vocal