LADY THULI - I'm Gonna Make It (1989)

On Record, ONH110

Producer: Edward Jordan (exec: Ronnie Robot)

Engineer: Si Higgins

One half of popular duo Tools & Figs, alongside Mafika. Together they were a central part of the On Record stable's distinctive sound, which incorporated new school influences and studio sounds. On this precursor to 1990's Living In Africa, titles include 'Ngifuna Indoda' (I Need A Man), 'I'm Gonna Make It' (including a bass-synth heavy house mix) and the politically charged 'I Don't Understand': 

"I don't understand the fighting,

I don't understand,
the reason for all the pain,

I don't understand, 
why we can't live together,

I'm standing and crying in the rain..."

TOOLS & FIGS - Featuring: Int'wencane and Ndalama (1991)

On Record/EMI, ONB127   
Producers: Ronnie Robot, Themba Mawelela, Fred Woods & Chris Sithole
Recorded at: The Cottage Studios       

Popular duo from the On Record stable who also released solo albums as Lady Thuli and Mafika. This six-track album bridges the gap between the past and the future, thanks to slick production from the likes of Ronnie Robot (Rabbitt) and Themba 'Little Big Man' Mawelele - it's timeless Afro-pop that still sounds fresh. Tracks like 'Blackout' and 'uPele Pele' can be played over and over, unlike the more derivative bubblegum of the day.

LADY THULI - Living in Africa (1990)

On Record/ EMI, ONH(O)122   
Producer: Themba "Little Big Man" Mawelela (exec: Ronnie Robot)
Engineer: Bruce Williams at Digital Cupboard   
Composer: Themba "Little Big Man" Mawelela

Solid Afro-pop produced and composed by Themba "Little Big Man" Mawelela with Ronnie Robot, former bass player of 70s rock band Rabbitt. 'The Good Old Days' covers the old classic 'Malaika' (without credit), while the instrumental 'Bhasela' samples 'Weekend Special'. Lady T was also part of the duo Tools & Figs.