Dr Tom’s Fresh, New Sound Set To Take Mzansi By Storm

Pretoria based Orthopedic and Spine surgeon Dr Tom has finally taken a leap of faith and given into his creative inclination with the launch of his debut single “Khanyisile Come Home” in August 2023 with his band Magic Strings.

The band’s name may have been inspired by the Vhenda, Limpopo born and raised Dr Tom’s (Tommy Mariba) lifelong love for musical instruments, particularly the guitar.

Being a surgeon comes with lots of brain cells to rub together and in these digital times that we live in Dr. Tom’s genius coupled with his love for music led him to create a unique YouTube channel, Beautiful Guitars where he reviews guitars.

‘I had ten pieces of music that I had planned to record in the December holidays of 2022. I was able to get Mulalo Mukwevho who produced the music, Blessing Mudzanini who played the guitar and Hangwi Netshifhefhe who sang all the songs” he says of Magic String’s formation.

“Khanyisile Come Home” is the age old story of a rejected man pouring his heart out to his former partner in the hopes to get “love back”. Dr Tom says that the single is his personal favourite in the album titled “One Night In Vegas” that was recorded at Burning Shak Studios in Vhenda.

This fresh, never heard before African Pop sound illustrates that Magic Strings is here to stay, with Dr Tom describing the single as a catchy one that is sure to get movement out of the stiffest, 2 left footed dancers.

Dr Tom says that lyrical depth is his biggest weakness musically but that excellent production is also one of music’s greatest rewards. ”I have listened to many different artists but I have to say that  Prince is one of those who have impressed me the most in terms of stage performance” says the good doctor who believes that Magic Strings delivers holistically in terms of all the important components of good music.

“Khanyisile Come Home” is one of many singles that Dr Tom and Magic Strings are set to release, and the hardworking team is already working on their second album even though “One Night In Vegas” has not been fully released yet. The plan is to drop more singles seasonally which also includes a Christmas Song.

The festive season is big in South Africa and music takes centre stage on New Year’s Eve with radio stations inviting listeners to vote for their favourite crossover track. In just a few months Mzansi will find out if the good doctor will be keeping us in good health as well as jovial spirits!