MBABANE- Eswatini-born artist Tboas Linkonyane, real name Thabo Mazibuko, is making bold moves in the music industry after releasing not one, but two major projects, a five-track EP titled “I’m Out” and a 12-track album “Ikhona Lenkinga Lekhona.”
Born in Mbabane, Thabo later relocated to Siteki (Entamskuphila), Lugongolweni umphakatsi under Chief Babe Mlimi Maziya, where he grew up as the last born in a family of five. Music runs deep in his blood, his father, Duma Mazibuko, widely known as Duma Namankonyane, is a respected musician and living legend famous for his 80s hit song “Emalangeni.”
Tboas completed his high school education at Mountain View Private School in Mbekelweni, Matsapha, while staying in the Mbikwakhe area around 2012. During his school years, he was passionate about dance. However, in 2015, he discovered another gift, music.
He began writing his own songs, downloading beats, and recording demos. Along the way, he met Siphelele Dlami from Mbikwakhe, who shared the same passion. The duo formed a group called 2nd Kings, symbolising their belief that “a Black man is a king.” They worked together from 2016 until 2020, when Tboas decided to pursue music as a full-time career and establish his own identity.
Inspired by his father’s name, Duma Namankonyane, he chose the stage name Tbos Linkonyane, later refining it to the now-recognised Tboas Linkonyane.
Growing up, Tboas admired South African icons such as Mandoza and Zola, whose impact shaped his unique and versatile sound. Locally, he draws inspiration from Mshikishi Mndzebele, Duma Namankonyane, Ghetto Villah, and Kena.
Believing that growth requires movement, Tboas relocated to Tembisa, Gauteng, South Africa. He says the move was driven by his desire to expand his musical horizons, connect with more artists, and represent Eswatini on a broader platform.
A singer, songwriter, and performer, Tboas has graced stages at Ubuntu Festival, the Duma Namankonyane Appreciation Show, and Sigiya Ngengoma Music Festival. He has also shared the stage with artists such as Immoral 7 and Mr Kangaroo at various events and house parties in Siteki.
His EP, “I’m Out,” released in late October 2025, is a five-track dance project symbolising his decision to step outside Eswatini and explore life in South Africa. The project features collaboration with Duma Namankonyane and was produced by TNS Savvy.
Following that momentum, Tboas released his album “Ikhona Lenkinga Lekhona” on 25 April 2026. The 12-track body of work leans heavily into hip-hop, with elements of Afro-pop. The album features artists such as Tus Mvuleni and Alec The Father’s Hope, including standout tracks like “Gazi Lami.” He says he chose these collaborators because of their musical chemistry and shared vision, which added depth and value to the project.
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