Busi Mhlongo was a singer, actor, and songwriter from South Africa. While still in school, she began singing in choirs and concert groups. She was found by a Gallo Music talent scout and relocated to Johannesburg, where she made her debut recording in 1963. Her rendition of "My Boy Lollipop" became a nationwide hit. Mhlongo appeared in musicals and as a soloist with several jazz groups, including the well-known Early Mabuza's Big Five. She also travelled widely throughout Africa and Europe. She relocated to London in the 1970s, where she continued to perform and record. She also began to experiment with various musical styles, including jazz, funk, and rock.