Solomon Linda (1909-1962) was a South African singer and songwriter, primarily known for his contributions to the genre of traditional African music and is often associated with the isicathamiya style. His most notable work is the song "Mbube," which he originally recorded in 1939 with his group, the Evening Birds. The song gained international fame after being adapted into "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" by the Weavers and later popularized by The Tokens in the 1960s. Linda's influence extends beyond the original recording, as "Mbube" is considered a precursor to the South African pop music movement and has had a lasting impact on world music, inspiring numerous covers and adaptations across various genres. His music highlighted the rich cultural heritage of South Africa and brought attention to the complexities of intellectual property rights in the music industry, as Linda's original work was often exploited without proper compensation. Despite his significant contributions, he struggled financially throughout his life, and his legacy has led to ongoing discussions about recognition and rights for artists in the global music landscape.