Harari - Heatwave (1980) [Vinyl]

Formed in the late sixties and originally known as The Beaters, the South African group consisting of guitarists Selby Ntuli and Saitana (real name: Monty Ndimande), bassist Alec Khaoli and drummer Sipho Mabuse decided to change their name to Harari during a tour through Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1976. The name is taken from a township outside Salisbury (which is now the capital, Harare).

With their afro-rock/funk/fusion style they achieved huge successes back home and in the neighbouring states, and they were the first local black pop/rock band to appear on South African TV.

Their label, Gallo, struck a two-album deal with the US A&M and their 1980 single, "Party", entered the American Disco Hot 100 in 1982.

However, by 1984 the group had disbanded, and the members launched successful solo careers.