Mbaqanga is a genre of South African music that originated in the 1960s. It combines traditional African rhythms with jazz and other musical influences, creating a vibrant and energetic sound. The term "mbaqanga" is derived from a type of corn porridge, symbolizing the music's roots in everyday life and culture. Typically featuring instruments like the accordion, guitar, and drums, mbaqanga often includes call-and-response vocals. The genre gained popularity during the apartheid era, serving as a form of expression and resistance for many South Africans. Today, it remains an important part of the country's musical heritage.