Ngwako Manamela was born at Riverside and raised in Mamelodi. While performing with other bands he caught the sharp ear and eye of Hugh Masekela who encouraged him to embark on a solo career. The result was his debut CD, Ngwako Ramelodi. The professional vibraphonist and band leader was inspired by the American muso Milt Jackson in the 1970s. By 2007 he had established the Manamela Bokamoso School of Creative Art in Soshanguve. The school was sponsored by UNISA, while studio facilities were provided by Chissa Music.