Madalitso Band are a Malawian duo whose music offers a vibrant and heartfelt window into the rhythms andpirit of their home country. Formed by Yobu Maligwa (vocals, babatone) and Yosefe Kalekeni (four-string guitar, foot percussion), the band began life as street performers in Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital, where they played for passersby with handmade instruments and an unshakeable sense of joy.
Their name, Madalitso, means “blessings” in Chichewa, a fitting title for a group whose music radiates warmth, positivity, and resilience. Blending traditional Malawian rhythms with a stripped-back, acoustic sound, their songs speak to everyday life: hard work, community, love, and hope. With no formal training or access to studios, their early music was entirely self-made, from the instruments to the songs themselves, giving their sound a unique rawness and authenticity.
In recent years, Madalitso Band’s music has found a wider audience beyond Malawi. Since being discovered by a local producer and international promoters, they’ve performed across Europe and beyond, including appearances at major festivals and venues. Despite this growing international acclaim, they remain grounded in their roots and committed to sharing the stories and sounds of their culture.
Their performances are joyful and deeply human - just two musicians, some homemade instruments, and a whole lot of rhythm, inviting audiences to dance, smile, and connect.
“Considered the true musical prophets in Malawi, Madalitso Band’s Musakayike makes for compulsive listening, guaranteed to brighten up the dullest of times. Surely only those with a happiness-bypass could fail to enjoy such intoxicatingly accomplished and compelling music." - KLOF Mag
“With just an acoustic guitar and foot drum, an outsize, home-made, one-string babatone, two voices in sweet harmony and buckets of charm, Malawi's dynamic duo have elevated audiences at WOMAD and Roskilde and a host of venues throughout Europe.” - WOMEX
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