Linda Sikhakhane

He was born in Umlazi Township near Durban, where his love for music emerged at an early age. This passion led him to start music lessons at the age of 10 in primary school and later study jazz under Dr. Brian Thusi at the Siyakhula Music Center in his hometown. In 2012, he earned a diploma in jazz and popular music from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, studying under Professor Mageshen Naidoo.

Sikhakhane has performed and recorded with esteemed South African and international artists, including Brian Thusi, Barney Rachabane, Feya Faku, Marcus Wyatt, Herbie Tsoaeli, Andile Yenana, Nduduzo Makhathini, Afrika Mkhize, Sibongile Khumalo, Gregory Porter, Reggie Workman, and many others. In 2016, he was awarded the SAMRO Overseas Scholarship, and in 2017, he released his debut album, Two Sides, One Mirror.

In 2017, Linda moved to New York to continue his studies at The New School University, transferring to complete his bachelor’s degree in jazz. There, he studied under renowned musicians such as Billy Harper, David Schnitter, and Reggie Workman.