Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse is one of South Africa’s proudest musical treasures who loves his country as much as he does performing. Having played his rich catalogue of music in New York all the way home to Newtown and back again, the Soweto born-and-raised master is about to celebrate another highlight and first in his already decorated career when he sings the national anthem on 6 October.

Soccer City in Johannesburg is where Mabuse will delight the capacity crowd of rugby fans before South Africa take on current world champions the All Blacks. “In over 45 years in the music business I have never sung the South African National anthem,” Mabuse says. “To get the opportunity do it down the road from my home, in Pimville Soweto, has left me humbled and feeling great!”

2012 has been a busy year for 61 year-old multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and philanthropist. Besides enjoying a busy touring schedule, Mabuse recently celebrated writing and passing his matric examinations. “I did it for me, but also to show that age and circumstance are boundaries to be beaten,” he says. “That and the fact that one is clearly never too old to learn new things.”

Mabuse is an integral part of the entertainment industry, and his contribution to the diverse landscape of South Africa is appreciated and honoured by music lovers the world over.

Are you proud of “Hotstix”?