Ngena Ngena by Tony Cedras

Meaning “Come In/Enter” in isiZulu/isiXhosa, this song truly captures the warmth and joy of being in South Africa and playing/listening to our music. The traditional jazz inspired intro harmony that drifts seamlessly into a thick Mbaqanga groove, this song will keep you focused on its clever harmony and soaring melody. This song while written by Tony, was recorded by the South African Jazz legend, Hugh Masekela on his album Beatin’ Around The Bush (1992).

This version strips away the EP and keys, leaving you with a high-fidelity, live-recorded rhythm section of bass and drums. Whether you are a pianist, guitarist, or horn player, this is your space to comp, improvise, and explore the melodic structures of South African Jazz over a rock-solid, professional groove.