Not many musical groups can lay claim to defining an entire genre. One of the most famous names in South African music, the Mahotella Queens arose in 1964 to become the country’s premier mbaqanga vocal harmony group and the most popular musical attraction in South Africa in the 1960s and 1970s. The sweet, joyous close harmony and energetic dances of the Queens, counteracted by the deep bass 'groaning' of Mahlathini and the lilting guitar backing of the Makgona Tsohle band, became one of the most iconic sights and sounds in the country.