FAMILY

Not only a world renowned singer, Yvonne finds time for a wonderful family life.
We delve into a home filled with Love & Music. Married for over fourteen years to Dr. Mandlalele Mhinga, Yvonne has raised four sons. Two have taken after their mother and proved that music seems to be in their blood too.

Involved in writing and performing on two of her albums, third-born son, Mfumu started at 11 years old when he wrote two songs, "Slow Down" and "Cacabokwe", on the album "Yvonne and Friends".

Second son Themba, is a promising songwriter/performer and appears on "Zibuyile Izinkomo" with Mzee Mtshali. The duo is known as Mzee and T. These up and coming young men produce their own music, contributing two songs, "Gettin’ In the Groove/Say What?" and "Zimbi Zinto" on "Zibuyile Izinkomo".
Both tracks add funk flavour and added dimension to the album. Mzee and T are currently working on their debut project and have produced more than 25 tracks that promise to be a success.

THE EARLY DAYS

Beyond her musical achievement, Yvonne has served as a role model to all that know her.
Her inspiring life has been a testament to the power of the human spirit.
Raised by a remarkable woman, Sophie Machaka, she and her two sisters endured the loss of their father early in their lives.

Determined to achieve great things in life. Yvonne became the first Black child to appear on South African television in1981. "Sugar Shack", a talent search programme hosted by Johnny Dimba and Abigail Kubheka, introduced Yvonne Chaka Chaka to the entertainment industry and the public.
Her talent was obvious to all that knew her, and by the time she was 19 she was a recording star.

When asked who she admired most, Yvonne said "My mother because she has always been there for me. My mother raised three daughters single-handedly on a domestic workers salary. That took great courage and strength. She is my mentor and hero. When I was born in 1965 in Soweto, It was during apartheid, and those were extremely difficult times. My dad was a great musician who could never realize his dream.
He died when I was 11 years old. I inherited my talent from both parents .

So music has always been in my blood. When I was little, I would strum an empty tin and blow into a broom stick pretending it was a microphone. I sang in church choirs. I loved singing. I am blessed that I achieved my destiny, and been able to accomplish what my father could not".