Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens were a South African mbaqanga supergroup made up of the three musical acts linked together by talent scout and record producer Rupert Bopape at the Gallo Recording Company in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1964. The group composed of the following three distinct parts:The late Simon "Mahlathini" Nkabinde (1937–1999), a powerful singer in the basso-profundo "groaning" style. The girl group the Mahotella Queens (1964–present), the classic line up being the threesome Hilda Tloubatla, Nobesuthu Mbadu and Mildred Mangxola. Still recording and performing internationally, the trio is noted for its distinct vocal harmony sound alternating between multi-part harmonies and unison vocals, guitar-led mbaqanga music, and fast stage dancing. The instrumental band the Makgona Tsohle Band (1964–1999), that is noted for creating the mbaqanga music style, led by electric lead guitarist Marks Mankwane and alto saxophonist West Nkosi.