Peta Teanet, born in June 1966 and passing away on July 13, 1996, was a celebrated South African disco musician of Shangaan heritage. He hailed from Thapane village in Bolobedu South, Ga-Modjadji. Teanet received his education at Kgwekgwe High School in Moleketla Village, Bolobedu South, where he became proficient in Shona and even recorded a few songs in the language. His debut album, “Maxaka” (meaning “we are relatives”), was released in 1988, heavily influenced by the music of Paul Ndlovu.
Peta Teanet
As the third child of Emma Teanet, who was also a musician, Peta Teanet rose to prominence as the undisputed king of Xitsonga Disco Music in his era. Collaborating with artists like Penny Penny, Foster Teanet (his younger brother), Joe Shirimane, and many others, he solidified his legacy in the South African music scene. The former Ward 11 under Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality, Mopani District, was renamed Peta Teanet ward in his honor.
Peta Teanet’s contributions extended beyond his own music. He played a pivotal role in mentoring and supporting other artists, including Penny Penny, Sunglen Chabalala, Nurse Matlala, and Candy N’wayingwani, sharing his knowledge and expertise in music production.
Sadly, Teanet’s life was cut short on July 13, 1996, when he was tragically shot by a policeman during an altercation in Acornhoek. His untimely death marked the end of an era in South African disco music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Peta Teanet, the Soweto-born vocalist, caught the attention of Billboard Magazine in April 1996, being hailed as one of “South Africa’s artists to watch.” His music, driven by infectious disco beats and accompanied by a soulful female choir featuring future solo artist MaLindi, blended the urban, bubblegum, and pop sounds of South Africa with uplifting lyrics sung in his native Tsonga language.
Touring extensively throughout South Africa, Teanet quickly rose to become one of the country’s best-selling artists, enchanting audiences with hits like “Cina Ndoda,” “Damage,” and “I Love You Africa.” However, tragedy struck just a few months later when Teanet’s life was cut short. He was shot and killed by a policeman during an argument, marking a heartbreaking end to his reign as the “king of Shangaan disco.”
Discography
- (1988) Maxaka
- (1989) Divorce Case
- (1990) More Hits From Peta Teanet
- (1991) The Gospel Album with The Special Servants
- (1991) The Real Peta Teanet
- (1992) Saka Naye Jive
- (1992) The Heroes Peta Teanet and Paul Ndlovu
- (1993) Jahman Teanet
- (1993) Uta ku Tsakisa
- (1994) Peta Will Excite You
- (1995) Double Pashash
- (1996) King Of Shangaan Disco
Remembered as a larger-than-life figure, Teanet’s legacy lives on as “the epitome of burning out rather than fading away,” as described by www.digitalcupboard.co.za. In the wake of his passing, his brother, Forsta Teanet, stepped into the spotlight, assuming the role of singer and bandleader. Meanwhile, MaLindi embarked on her solo career, releasing her debut album, “To the Beat Yo!,” in 2000.
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