NEWS

 

UMOYA nominated for South African Music Award

Umoya: Embracing the Human Spirit has been nominated for the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) in the categories of Best African Adult Contemporary Album and Best Engineered Album. Vusi is grateful to everyone who contributed to bringing this vision to life and to the SAMAs for celebrating the beauty of music and culture. Congratulations to all the incredible nominees!

UMOYA nominated for METRO FM Music Award

Vusi has been nominated for "Best Jazz Album" at the METRO FM Music Awards (MMA’s) for his 2023 album Umoya. The voting lines are now open and the public is encouraged to vote for their favorite artist to win a coveted METRO FM Music Award. To vote for your favourite artist, dial *120*45787# with USSD rates charged at R1.50 per minute. T’s and C’s apply. Get your tickets now at Computicket.com and be part of the biggest celebration of local talent at Mbombela Stadium on Freedom Day, 27 April 2024.

 

Vusi Mahlasela to perform with Dave Matthews Band in Pretoria and Cape Town

Vusi will join long time friends Dave Matthews Band on stage as a special guest on both South Africa concerts: Pretoria on December 10 and Cape Town on December 12. Visit https://davematthewsband.com/tour for tickets and information.

Vusi Mahlasela Announces New Album ‘Umoya’ (Embracing The Human Spirit)

Johannesburg, 18 September 2023: Legendary guitarist and singer-songwriter Vusi Mahlasela has revealed 22 September 2023 as the release date for his first album since 2009, Umoya (Embracing The Human Spirit), issued through Gallo Music.

 Recorded at Flame Studios and helmed by two time Grammy-nominated producer Joe Arthur, the 10-track album is the ideal companion soundtrack to South Africa’s Heritage Month. Addressing some crucial personal and social issues, the body of work cocoons deeply introspective and spiritual explorations within its rootsy soundbeds. A signature strum-driven iteration of African Jazz sees Mahlasela in poetic form, with the artist affectionately referred to as ‘The Voice’ acting as a conduit for both the essence of his musical artform and the continent at large. In partnership with the Vusi Mahlasela Music Foundation and Native Intelligence De Coloniality Project Centre, and with collaborators Habib Koite, Steve Dyer and Maduvha who features on the opening track,  Mahlasela seeks to utilise this project to dismantle colonial frameworks by promoting indigenous knowledge and fostering dialogue.

 The multi award-winning artist who has performed with the late Hugh Masekela and Mahotella Queens continues using his socially-inclined music to convey messages both timeless and borderless, crafting balms as much for individual souls as communities. “I know every sickness needs healing,” Mahlasela shares. “Everyone who cries needs comforting. Every troubled soul needs redemption, as captives need freedom. As every answer starts with a question, every problem needs a solution. Justice must be balanced on every scale - moral leadership, integrity, and fairness matter.” The instructive single “Africa The Sun Has Risen” embodies this ethos, imploring the continent’s inhabitants to equally embrace African-ness and Humankind-ness. Between its earthy strums, the empowering song aims to uplift African voices while actively promoting broader social cohesion - as does Umoya‘s closing track “Universal Prayer”.

 In keeping with the album’s theme of bringing people together, Mahlasela will be taking this brand new music that incorporates in Swahili, English, Venda and Pedi to audiences across South Africa. Confirmed live performances will take place at World of Music, Arts & Dance (WOMAD) at the Market Theatre on October 1st, the Vusi Mahlasela Tribute Concert at Moretele Park on October 7th and the Tembisa Jazz Festival on October 28th.

As the release date of Umoya approaches, Vusi Mahlasela’s music promises to speak to generations old and new and instil a sense of pride around their nations, heritage and cumulative talents. “You who are chosen to deliver the healing message through music,” he advises. “Teach an understanding of the power of the soul, that aligns us to destiny and begin to heal collective illnesses and balance the harmony of new beginnings.”

 

SHO MAJOZI & VUSI MAHLASELA ARE AMONGST PERFORMERS AT THE SECOND INSTALLMENT OF THE FOLKLORE FESTIVAL

The Folklore Festival returns for another year of a vibrant celebration of African identity, culture, customs, and heritage on the 16th of September 2023 at the National School of the Arts in Braam Park, Johannesburg. 

The kid friendly festival taking place over Heritage Month promises an unforgettable experience, exploring a pan African offering of music, literature, crafts and food for the whole family. A music concert on the main stage, workshops, a book fair on the storyteller’s stage, a kids area with drumming circles, play time singing and a safe place to leave your kids to play and learn - not forgetting traditional dancers off stage, making for the best sensorial cultural experience in Johannesburg.

 The first artists announced, who will be setting the stage and your souls ablaze and bringing you contemporary folk fusion at the second annual Folklore Festival 2023 this year are: The electrifying poet, rapper and afro-centric Sho Madjozi (SA), ‘The Voice’ Vusi Mahlasela (SA), who is set to release his 8th studio album ‘Umoya this September, the enchanting Thandeka Mfinyongo (SA), The uhadi, mbira, percussive trio with sis Lungiswa Plaatjies known as Ancient Voices (SA). From Kenya this year, The Folklore Festival is excited to share an artist that fuses the Nyatiti (a genre of music and an 8-stringed instrument called Luo lyre) into modern sounds: Makadem (Kenya) ft. Eddie Grey, a visionary and trailblazer in the Jazz and fusion scene in East and Central Africa. Representing the heritage of Zimbabwe, Josh Meck will share a project celebrating the icons of music from his home country, immersing you in a symphony of cultural richness. Lastly, but definitely not least, is South African advocate for World Music; DJ Nicky B, who will be returning for a daytime set, infusing the air with infectious beats and irresistible melodies. 

The Folklore Festival is curated by the multi-ward winning storyteller and creative artist Pilani Bubu who is Founder & Festival Director. "In the heart of our collective existence lies a vibrant tapestry of human expression known as Folklore. It weaves together the soulful essence of a people, an intricate web of traditional wisdom, customs, and captivating tales cherished by generations past. Whispers carried on the winds of time, where words morph into dances, proverbs sing through melodies, and laughter echoes in the form of jokes. Such artistry, captured across diverse mediums, reflects the pulse of life within a community. Folklore is this collective documentation of art forms passed through generations by word of mouth." She says. 

"This festival prides itself in being a conduit for inter-generational dialogue, indigenous knowledge sharing, and the important documentation and preservation of African folklore as it re-defines itself through time and instilling a stronger sense of identity in ourselves as Africans.” 

GET TICKETS


Vusi Mahlasela, Norman Zulu and Jive Connection “Face to Face” - out on Strut Records 10 February 2023

Strut revives a lost recording from the archives in January with a 2002 collaboration between acclaimed South African folk singer Vusi Mahlasela, singer songwriter Norman Zulu and Swedish jazz / soul collective Jive Connection. Available on LP, CD & digital formats on 10th February 2023. 

The links between South Africa and Sweden have long been strong with Sweden one of the most supportive European nations in the struggle against apartheid; the government helped to fund the ANC for decades and Mandela visited the country on one of his first European stops following his release from prison in 1990. 

South African folk singer Vusi Mahlasela, dubbed “The Voice” Of South Africa, performed at Mandela’s inauguration in 1994 and has enjoyed his own long relationship with Sweden, regularly embarking on cultural exchanges and forging a strong bond with the Jive Connection band, featuring guitarist / bassist Stefan Bergman and Little Dragon drummer Erik Bodin within its line-up. 

Although touring regularly, the collaboration has rarely been documented beyond a lone studio album in 2002. This “lost” recording, discovered in the archives of producer Torsten Larsson, who recalled "It was such a fantastic voyage to work with Vusi and all the Swedish musicians. Vusi and Norman Zulu teaching the Swedish guys to do all their backing vocals in all these different South African languages. I remember I was so impressed by Vusis voice & vocal arrangements, he just put them down live and direct.” The album also features songwriter / vocalist Norman Zulu and showcases their natural musical chemistry together. Vusi’s songs have traditionally addressed the struggle for freedom and the need for reconciliation and, here, his lyrics are as powerful as ever, ranging from parables (‘Prodigal Son’) to an unflinching lament on child abuse (‘Faceless People’). Jive Connection vary the soundtrack, bringing in hints of reggae, jazz and post-punk alongside traditional township arrangements.

“It has been more than twenty years now since I met Jive Connection, and also since I started doing cultural exchanges between South Africa and Sweden. This has been a strong relationship, not only with the Jive Connection band but also with the good people of Sweden and anti-apartheid organisations, which helped us through our hard and difficult times during the struggle against apartheid.” - Vusi Mahlasela


“I was born in Sophia Town in Johannesburg and grew up in Soweto. I connected with Vusi in Sweden and we created Jive Connection, performing and recording with some great Swedish musicians from the early 2000s and this album is a great ‘lost recording’ of our work together. Vusi and I have remained good friends ever since - we are like brothers.” - Norman Zulu

Face To Face is mastered by The Carvery. Artwork features unseen photos from the album sessions along with full lyrics. Produced in association with Torsten Larsson. The album is released on LP, CD and digital formats on 10th February 2023.

Listen to ‘Roots’ / PRE-ORDER HERE

Partnership with music legend broadens students’ perspective

The teaching and learning of students at the Faculty of Arts and Design started on a high note this year since music legend Dr Vusi Mahlasela, known as ‘The Voice,’ partnered with the Faculty to present master classes to students of the Department of Performing Arts (Music programme).

The collaboration, which foresees to broaden students’ knowledge of South African music styles and reframe their criteria for musical and personal success, is a result of the University conferring an honorary doctorate on Dr Mahlasela late last year.

Dr Mahlasela, praised for his distinct, powerful voice and poetic, optimistic lyrics, describes the honorary degree as “really great, beyond expectation and a rejuvenation of my spirit.” “It also presented me with an opportunity to participate in the teaching and learning of students,” he adds.

Since the honorary doctorate, Dr Mahlasela has been working closely with Dr Rostislava Pashkevitch, Head of the Department of Performing Arts, to finetune the partnership to the benefit of students.

READ FULL ARTICLE


HONOUR THE FATHERS Father’s Day Music Concert

Join us in the idyllic setting of NIROX Sculpture Park on Sunday 19 June as we celebrate Father’s Day with a musical programme featuring some of South Africa’s finest acoustic musicians and poets.

The concert will be graced with the magnetic musical presence of one of the most iconic South African musicians of our time, Vusi Mahlasela. From activist to ambassador, Vusi Mahlasela has performed songs and poems around the world for the better part of three decades, performing at Nelson Mandela’s inauguration and collaborating with international artists including Paul Simon, Dave Matthews and Sting.

HONOUR THE FATHERS will be presented amidst the NIROX Winter Sculpture Exhibition: Good Neighbours, featuring 35 original sculptures installed throughout the beautiful gardens.

Tickets and More Information


Vusi to Perform at the Human Rights Festival - Presented by Constitution Hill

After two years the only Human Rights Festival in Africa is now back in its full physical form! Each year the festival unites NGOs, social justice organizations, think tanks media partners, and more around human rights issues. Now in its 4th year, the event which is free to the public presents three jam-packed days of conversations, exhibitions; art, film, and live performances.

Covid-19 has proved to be the great accelerator and exacerbator of long-standing inequalities in our communities. Twenty-six years into our democracy, frustrations of ideals not achieved have ignited the next generation of human rights activists with the injustices of poverty and inequality have fueled the desire for bottom-up change.

The festival programme will encourage attendees to interrogate their own beliefs and values and to examine what they are doing to help create a “just” society for all that actively foregrounds economic, political, and social human rights.

Full lineup and more information here: www.humanrightsfestival.co.za


Annual Tshwane All White Jazz Benefit Concert pays tribute to victims of Covid-19

Alongside other performers such as Kelly Khumalo, Mlindo The Vocalist, and Sishi from Gomora, Vusi Mahlasela performed at the Annual Tshwane All White Jazz Benefit Concert on December 16.

"This year’s theme was inspired by our desire to reconnect again and commemorate the National Day of Reconciliation, while honouring the survivors, those who lost their families, and communities at large," said Baloyi.

Read more about the festival here.

Vusi receives Music In Africa Honorary Award

Music In Africa Conference for Collaborations, Exchange and Showcases 2021 (ACCES) in Johannesburg kicked off on 25 November with the Music in Africa Honorary Award ceremony where South African legends Vusi Mahlasela and Thandiswa Mazwai were awarded for their outstanding contribution to their home country's music industry and that of Africa as a whole. They were joined by previous award recipients Baaba Maal (2017), Eric Wainaina (2018), Ebo Taylor (2019) and Bibie Brew (2019).

Vusi Mahlasela receives Honorary Doctorate Degree from Tshwane University of Technology

Vusi and Former SA President, Kgalema Motlanthe, are among five outstanding individuals who were conferred with honorary doctorates for their valuable contributions in the fields of Performing Arts, Public Affairs and Science. The honorary degree ceremony took place at the Pretoria Campus on Friday, 12 November 2021.

Vusi Mahlasela, who is simply known as “The Voice” in South Africa, received the Doctor of Performing Arts (honoris causa) for applying his musical skill in the fight for freedom and equality, always with a sense of hope.

Dr Motlanthe received the Doctor of Public Affairs (honoris causa) degree from the Faculty of Humanities.

Dr Thomas Chauke received the Doctor of Performing Arts (honoris causa) degree from the Faculty of Arts and Design.

Omar Badsha received the Doctor of Performing Arts (honoris causa) degree.

Prof Alberto Ritieni received the Doctor of Philosophy in Science: Pharmaceutical Science (honoris causa) degree.

Prof Lourens van Staden, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said the five recipients will be honoured for their “tireless commitment and extraordinary efforts to make a positive difference in people’s lives, which resonates with the University’s vision of being globally recognised as a people’s university that makes knowledge work and where this knowledge is advanced in service of society. We are honoured to present these honorary degrees to candidates who absolutely deserve them,” said Prof van Staden.


Sharp Read | South Africa’s Revolutionary People’s Culture

In tracing the legacies of South Africa’s struggle artists, Lebogang Lance Nawa’s weighty anthology offers a glimpse into the lived experience of cultural creators.

“Giving adequate space to the pioneering role of Black Consciousness in shaping liberation culture is long overdue. In a detailed memoir of growing up in Mamelodi, where Africanist cultural groups were active, the songwriter and musician Vusi Mahlasela describes how, aged 11, a church hall performance profoundly influenced him: “On the pulpit stood a guy reading from a paper and two others on the side thumping drums. I asked what they were doing and [an older friend] said they were rendering poetry. ‘What is poetry?’ I asked … The other two accompanied the recital of the poem with music. I liked that.””

READ MORE HERE

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Transglobal World Music Chart Reveals Best Albums of 2020-2021 Season

The Transglobal World Music Chart (TWMC) has unveiled the list of Best Albums of the 2020-2021 season. The results are based on the sum of the panelists’ votes in the period between September 2020 and August 2021. Vusi Mahlasela’s Shebeen Queen makes the 2020-21 Season Best 100 World Music Albums list.

SEE THE FULL LIST OF BEST ALBUMS

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Culture and Liberation in South Africa: From Colonialism to Post-Apartheid

An anthology of articles, biographies, interviews, personal memoirs, photo essays and tribute - Edited by Lebogang Lance Nawa

In this extract from the book CULTURE AND LIBERATION STRUGGLE IN SOUTH AFRICA – From Colonialism to Post-Apartheid internationally acclaimed musician Vusi Mahlasela throws back to Mamelodi township where he learned to advance the struggle through music.

“The one physical location I can credit as my source of political awakening as a cultural activist is ntate Matlherane Geoff Mphakati’s house in B3 Section, Mamelodi. Bra Geoff ’s place was a mecca of cultural activities, a foundation of several cultural organisations, and a Black Consciousness seminary. The venue was literally a record bar, printing and publishing facility, fine art studio, music and drama rehearsal stage, as well as a well-stocked library. Gratitude is due to Ntate Mphakatis’s wife, Mme Stephina Maokaneng, for her steadfast support to her husband by providing hospitality to us, her patience and tolerance for our eccentric behaviour, as well as cleaning the mess some of us left behind.”

READ MORE HERE

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOOK HERE

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Shebeen Queen nominated for a SAMA (South African Music Awards) in the category of "Best Traditional Album"

The South African Music Awards is a premier music showcase hosted by RiSA. This annual event honours the country’s finest music talent over two days in key categories, as they battle for the South African industry’s highest honour – a statuette at the South African Music Awards. Nominees also take the stage by storm with a series of epic, never-to-be-repeated performances, as the nation watches SA’s finest talent at work.

Congratulations to all of the nominees!

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Remembering Nelson Mandela

December 5 is the day most of us will never forget, as Dr Nelson Mandela transcended.

It is a sad day to remember as we lost an icon and great man that he was. Most of us did not expect to hear the news though we knew that he had been unwell for a while and we wished him a speedy recovery.

His passing was sad not only for us in South Africa but to those all over the world, who saw him as a great humanitarian who championed the concept of UBUNTU.

Now we remember him for the great sacrifices to liberate the black people of our country. We recollect his good leadership as the President of South Africa and everyone that he congratulated and encouraged for their good work and achievements. His good spirit is still living in and amongst us, those who loved him. I wonder what he would have said to all the nations of the world about what has befallen us with the pandemic. Especially to the leaders of the world about helping the needy and the poor.

May his good spirit live on.

-Vusi

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An all-star band puts a new spin on Hugh Masekela's Thuma Mina

The people of South Africa are facing tremendous challenges in the wake of COVID-19, including severe poverty, a compromised economy, lack of access to healthcare and education, corruption and gender-based violence. Together, with a little help from some friends, Constitution Hill in partnership with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, have joined forces to produce a collaborative re-working – A People's Version – of the late, great Masekela’s anthemic Thuma Mina. This People’s Version strives to mobilise the citizens of South Africa into action, in support and empowerment of one another.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/l3ejDqHoLiE

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BecauseWeAre: This New Song By 30 South African Musicians Is Simply Awesome

A star-studded ensemble of 30 Top South African musicians, including Vusi Mahlasela, Amanda Black, Arno Carstens, J’Something, Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Karen Zoid, Majozi, Ready D, Khuli Chana, Zolani Mahola and more, under the banner of the Mzansi All-Stars, have joined forces to release a campaign with a song entitled #BecauseWeAre, which aims to encourage unity, resilience, and action.

The song was written by Zolani Mahola and Aron Halevi who together started Freshlyground, with creative input from Dylan Wray, the director of education human rights organisation, Shikaya.

Heavy Chef spoke to Halevi last night: "I'm incredibly excited about the launch. This has been the culmination of so many amazing people. I'm really proud of the effort of Zolani and all the performers who have contributed to this track.”

“This is just the start though,” continued Halevi. “At such a crazy time, it's imperative that each and every South African who feels inspired by what we're doing to unify, come together and start a positive conversation about how to change our society for the better."

Zolani Mahola shares: “There is something so precious about co-creation. From the initial impetus to the realisation of the dream. This song is the beginning of a conversation about national unity, about our responsibility to create the society we want to see. I’m excited to be a part of that wonderful future.”

Aron Halevi adds: “We want the song to ignite a conversation around how we can emerge from this pandemic even stronger than before, and what we can each do to contribute.”

Listen to Because We Are: https://platoon.lnk.to/BecauseWeAre

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Vusi Mahlasela Announces New Live Album Shebeen Queen

A Tribute to Township Music Dedicated to His Grandmother Ida: “She was and still is my greatest hero.”

Out August 14 on ATO Records

South Africa’s Vusi Mahlasela releases his jubilant new live album Shebeen Queen, a collection of 10 traditional folk songs from his home township of Mamelodi, today on ATO Records. Mahlasela, one of his country’s most revered singer-songwriters, named the record after his late grandmother Ida, who earned the nickname “Shebeen Queen” after her shebeen (speakeasy) became known for its festive impromptu musical gatherings. Mahlasela and his band shut down the street in front of Ida’s former shebeen to throw a neighborhood party and perform the songs that make up Shebeen Queen, which the New York Times has already called “pure upbeat three-chord euphoria; the rhythm guitars are having a party of their own.” Today, alongside the album’s release, Mahlasela also releases a short film that shows the concert as well as his personal memories and connections to the neighborhood.

Shebeen Queen is the new live album of traditional township songs from Vusi Mahlasela, the legendary activist and singer-songwriter known as “The Voice” in his native South Africa. The “shebeen queen” of the title is Mahlasela’s late grandmother Ida (whom he calls Magogo), who raised him in the township of Mamelodi (meaning “mother of melody”), where he still lives today. Following her husband’s murder in 1961, Ida opened a shebeen (speakeasy) and began selling homebrewed beer (umqombothi) to make her living. Her space became known for its lively musical gatherings at night, where the townspeople would use buckets, tins, and plastic drums as instruments, and Ingoma'buksu - music  rooted  in  Mbube culture, meaning “Songs of the Night” - would  be  celebrated  with  everyone singing together in full voices.  Ida became known as the “Shebeen Queen.” As a boy, Mahlasela saw a man playing a guitar at one of these gatherings and was inspired to build his first guitar from fishing line and a cooking oil can.

Shebeen Queen is a celebration of the vibrant musical culture of his hometown, first encountered at Ida’s shebeen. “Ida  was  a  strong  woman  and  was  respected  by  all  in  our  community,” he says. “In  1976,  when  I  witnessed  the Soweto  Uprising,  my  political  education  began  and  I  realized  how  important music was. I began writing songs of justice, of freedom, of revolution, of love, of peace and of life. For these songs, I was arrested and thrown into solitary confinement. Magogo was always there for me –she fought for me, protected me and stood up for what was right. She was and still is my greatest hero. I decided I wanted to record some of these great Township songs in an effort to preserve this important music, so critical to our community and to our history. I wanted to honour this music and my grandmother by recording a live show, right here in Mamelodi at Magogo’s house.”

Band

Kagiso Ramela: Saxophone

Thabang Sefako: Rhythm Guitar

Khola Phalatse: Bass

Tsholofelo Papo: Lead Guitar 

Kholofelo Chimeloane: Drums

Thabang Tabane: Percussions 

Andrew Letsoalo: Musical Conductor

Vusi Mahlasela: Acoustic Guitar and Lead Vocals

Abel Seloekoe: Cello, on Intombi

Singers 

Zodwa Mabena

Paulina (Ndoniyamanzi) Mbatha

Mary Phalatse

Today Mahlasela releases a vibrant video previewing the album and showcasing the joyful live concert. Watch the video HERE and pre-order Shebeen Queen HERE.

 
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Vusi Mahlasela included on ATO’s ‘Silence Is Not An Option (turn this up)’

ATO’s ‘Silence Is Not An Option (turn this up)’- an album of powerful anthems from the ATO catalog that explore issues of identity, community, social justice, and resistance. This recycled wax vinyl pre-order is live today exclusively on Bandcamp along with an expanded donation-based playlist- with all net proceeds going to BLM Greater NY, Color Of Change and Innocence Project. Check ATO Records bio for more details. smarturl.it/SilenceIsNotAnOption

 
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Kindness Contagion AN AFRICAN RESPONSE TO Covid-19

A consortium of top African artists have created a song and music video rooted in African values of friendship, generosity, sharing and togetherness. Every artist recorded their music and video content independently from where they are around the world, offering a truly pan-African message to the rest of the planet around the COVID-19 pandemic, not focusing on hygiene or social distancing – instead, a call to action for all to heal the world together based on our common humanity.

Watch Here

 
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Congratulations to Vusi for winning the Ubuntu Arts & Cultural Award!

“Ntate Vusi Mahlasela is internationally celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics. His songs of hope connect South Africa with its promise for a better future. Congratulations to all the winners and the nominees this evening.” - Cyril Ramaphosa #UbuntuAwards2020

 
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Joseph Shabalala 1940-2020

The news of the passing of Baba Joseph Shabalala came as a shock to me on Tuesday morning as I was getting ready for the day. A powerful soul that always had positive and great input into the arts industry.

I had the pleasure of touring and working with Ladysmith Black Mambazo under the leadership of Dr Shabalala in the United Kingdom and the United States of America. As their opening act, I gained a big fan base because of their big following in the world.

I learned a lot from bab’Shabalala; always humble and always inviting me to their changing room for a prayer before the show.

I recorded a song called “Heaven in My Heart” with Mambazo. He rendered unselfishly a leading voice collaborating with my voice on the song. He treated me like one of his sons.

Mambazo and bab’Shabalala were truly blessed with the gift of song, spiritually gifted and they were able to export our rich typical South African cultural music to the world.

May his soul Rest In Peace.
-Vusi

photo via: mambazo.com

 
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Tenth Annual East Hampton Fundraising Event For Harlem's Legendary Apollo Theater


HARLEM, N.Y., Aug. 4, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- On Saturday, August 3rd, the tenth annual Apollo in the Hamptons was held at the East Hampton home of Apollo Vice Chairman, Ronald O. Perelman to benefit the non-profit Apollo Theater. This year's event raised millions of dollars to support the Apollo's artistic, educational, and outreach programs, while building on the Theater's rich history as a cultural and economic anchor to Harlem, and as a nurturer of emerging talent.

 
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Johnny Clegg 1953-2019

The passing of Johnny Clegg came as a shock as its always not easy to accept a passing of a great man. We have lost a great musician, songwriter, husband, father and a friend to many. We have worked together on platforms like the the Nelson Mandela’s 46664 and other shows/music festivals in South Africa and other countries on many occasions. He contributed a lot musically and also embraced ubuntu. Johnny was one versatile artist, with his flexibility to use South African cultures and languages in conveying his message through music. He was advocating for better education on initiatives like the Click Foundation that helps underprivileged learners to understand the fundamentals of language. He was a great colleague to many of us and that has earned him a beautiful tribute while he was still alive by a group of artists (friends of Johnny Clegg) that re-recorded his song “The Crossing” in 2018. With his inspiration to support education, this project was also an initiative to raise funds for the Click Foundation. I feel so privileged to being part of such a recording organized by Karen Zoid. Condolences to his family, colleagues, friends and all his fans throughout the world.

HAMBA KAHLE BAB’ JOHNNY, MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PEACE! - Vusi

 
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Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi

The passing of Oliver Mtukudzi yesterday came as a shock to me. Oliver was really like a brother to me and whenever we shared the stage together, I knew it was going to be awesome. As we were both traveling around the world touring internationally and playing at many of the same venues, we’d often be like two ships in the night.  I’d notice he’d be performing in the same venue after me and I’d leave him a note and he’d do the same.  Sharing the stage with him at festivals was always a good time as we’d end up going to friends’ houses after the gig and eating dinner together and discussing music, life and future plans.  I was so looking forward to that kind of hang with him at the upcoming Cape Town Jazz Festival in March where we were planning a collaborative show.  He was a true soldier in song and in dance— his activism contributed a lot of Ubuntu and humanity to the world. I’m so devastated by his loss and send  my deepest condolences to the Mtukudzi family and all of his many fans around the world. May his soul Rest In Peace.

-Vusi

 
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Artists Come Together to Pay Tribute To Johnny Clegg With Their Own Rendition of ‘The Crossing’

Over 50 artists have came together to pay tribute to South African artists Johnny Clegg with their own rendition of his soulful song, ‘The Crossing’.

 
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Vusi Receives an Honorary Doctorate Degree From University of Kwazulu-Natal

Vusi receives an honorary doctorate conferred to him by University of KwaZulu-Natal.

 
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Bra Hugh

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bra Hugh, one of my true heroes, comrades, and inspirations. A few years ago, I was proud to tour with Bra Hugh around the States as we honored 20 years since the fall of Apartheid.  He kept us all laughing, all the time. He was always cracking jokes— the warmth he exuded could make us all forget about the cold and the snow that was coming down around us. He could light up the room with his smile and his unmistakable laugh. I always dreamed of asking Hugh to play on one of my records, but getting to tour and share the stage with him was the ultimate dream-come-true. Thank you, Bra Hugh, for your wisdom and for what you’ve given to me and to the world.  It’s a better place because of you. Usifundisile ukuthi, Thina singumlilo ovuthayo. Love. VUSI

 
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VMMDF Teaches Ancient Music to Restore African Pride

The Vusi Mahlasela Music Development Foundation (VMMDF) is helping young individuals learn and preserve indigenous music. The foundation is providing quality musical training to historically disadvantaged individual through professional training and specialized coaching.Not only do they teach young aspiring musicians, the foundation is also helping these individuals gain entry in institutions of higher learning that offers music as curriculum.

 
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Vusi’s Energetic Performance at the Birchwood Executive Hotel in Boksburg

Performing at the monthly Ekurhuleni Comes Alive concert in partnership with Sowetan, Mahlasela and his band delivered a show of international standard, delighting a highly appreciative crowd at the packed venue.

His band included sought-after lead guitarist Oupa “Poy Poy” Makhubela who, incidentally, opened for Mahlasela earlier on with his own band. Makhubela’s township jazz repertoire and his dazzlling guitar skills went down well with the audience. He played his mostly instrumental tunes, including his version of Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World”.

When  he got revellers on their feet with a vocals track, Kori Moraba’s wedding tune “Tsoang Tsoang”,  he sprang a surprise by calling out for Mahlasela  to join him on stage. The Voice, as Mahlasela is affectionately, sang his heart out before shuffling off stage klevah style to rejoin his band’s preparations backstage.  

Mahlasela opened his set with a solo rendition of “Ubuhle Bomhlaba”, a spiritual song through which he bemoans the restlessness of the human spirit as a result of unfulfilled expectations and hardship. The song from 1994 album “Wisdom of Forgiveness”, truly captures Mahlasela exceptional vocal ability and  properly positions his other role as an activist for human rights.

After shaking souls like that, the band joined him to deliver more joyous favourites  such as “Silang Mabele”, “Nonyana tse Pedi”, “Miyela Afrika” and “Tonkana”. He too played out with “Tsoang Tsoang” as an encore after after he had finished his set. Doing his first show in SA after returning from an extensive tour of North America earlier this year, Mahlasela showed once again why he remains one of the sought-after live acts around.

Earlier in the evening a yet to be recorded outfit, The Remnants, warmed the stage for the evening. The keen young band from Ekurhuleni sounded like the Muffinz but with a subdued mood.

The evening was also rocked by the antics of two young comedians, Tshepo Mathose and Smokey. If their form on Friday was not a once off to impress the high level Birchwood audience, then these two funny lads are going places in the competitive world of comedy.

 
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Vusi to Perform in Riveria Maya, Mexico

Vusi will perform as a support act for Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds concerts in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

 
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Live at The Bassline - Dec. 2, 2016

Vusi’s show at Bassline this past Friday night was truly sensational. Vusi was in top form, pulling out all the stops to create an incredible Soul Shine Africa Music Night. Sharing the stage with an army of Mamelodi’s finest musicians – including a full traditional percussion/dance troupe and a brass section – Vusi delivered a fired up performance that will live forever in the memory banks.

It was a fitting way to end the monthly Kaya FM Live@Bassline series for 2016, and for many the musical highlight of the year.

 
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Acoustic Africa: Habib Koite and Vusi Mahlasela at The Met

For the fourth installment of the Acoustic Africa series, old friends Habib Koité and Vusi Mahlasela joined forces again, 10 years after their appearance together in the 2006 debut of the series. On April 13 these two big stars of popular African folk music took the stage at the Metropolitan Museum, in a theater whose lobby is a gallery of ancient Egyptian tapestries and statues. Attuned to the audience that mostly remained seated throughout, their set was laid-back with powerful solo songs about African unity and migration interspersed with full-band jams. Mahlasela and Koité pair beautifully, with their intermingling acoustic guitar stylings, harmonious voices, and shared messages of peace and understanding.

 
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Carnegie Hall Kicks Off South Africa Festival

Apartheid.

The ghost of that word—its history, injustices and the need, for some, to move beyond it—is ubiquitous in the music of South Africa, a nation for whom music and politics are inextricably linked.

This year, the 20th anniversary of South African democracy’s beginning and apartheid’s end, Carnegie Hall wrestles with that legacy in an ambitious, month-long festival dedicated to the music and culture of South Africa. The programming ranges from jazz and classical to traditional and pop, and includes both South African stars—the male choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo and jazz greats Hugh Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim —and music rarely heard in the U.S., like that from the Cape Malay community, based in Cape Town. Paul Simon and Dave Matthews, who was born in South Africa, will also make appearances.

 
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Watch Latest Video from the Series “Scenes From South Africa”

Another installment of “Scenes From South Africa.” Vusi and the Dave Matthews Band visit Vusi’s hometown of Mamelodi.

 
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Watch Vusi’s Performance at TEDxCharlottesville

Vusi’s inspiring performance at the TEDxCharlottesville event from November 2013. Vusi Mahlasela joins stage for his third TED event.

 
 

The Vusi Mahlasela Music Development Foundation (VMMDF)

The Vusi Mahlasela Music Development Foundation (VMMDF) is helping young individuals learn and preserve indigenous music. The foundation is providing quality musical training to historically disadvantaged individual through professional training and specialized coaching.Not only do they teach young aspiring musicians, the foundation is also helping these individuals gain entry in institutions of higher learning that offers music as curriculum. Recently, the VMMDF entered to an agreement with University of South Africa (UNISA) to help confer certificates to its graduates.Under the Vusi Mahlasela Music Academy, students are offered a nine-months, trimester, full-time tuition, on a three-year academic cycle that is benchmarked against UNISA’s grading system. Each year of study, correspond with a relevant grade at basic, intermediate and advanced level in different genres.The academy offers lessons in theory, drums, piano, guitar, trumpet and saxophone, vocals and marimba.The Vusi Mahlasela Music Development Foundation, was founded in 2002, by the legendary Dr Vusi Mahlasela, after he saw a shortage or rather a neglect in the historical indigenous African ancient music.
By Dimpho Temane
@tshwanecapital