Jazz Festival brings Mzansi’s finest to Ekurhuleni

Share the Article:

Ekurhuleni is preparing for a significant musical event as the Business Premium Jazz Festival makes its return to Carnival City in Brakpan on Saturday, June 27.

The iconic festival marks another milestone edition, bringing together some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists for an unforgettable evening of live entertainment at the Big Top Arena.

Jazz lovers are urged to dust off their dancing shoes as award-winning heavyweights will take to the stage in a showcase of world-class local talent.

Doors open at 5pm, while performances are expected to kick-start at 6pm.

This year’s festival boasts a star-studded line-up featuring renowned singer-songwriter Vusi Mahlasela; award-winning singer and songwriter Amanda Black; “Nomvula” hitmaker Nathi Mankayi; veteran musician Dr. Colbert Mukwevho; and rising star Zawadi Yamungu.

From humble beginnings to Jazz Festival Apex

Since its inception, the [Business Premium Jazz] festival has grown into a pinnacle event, celebrating the fusion of business and the vibrant world of jazz.

Revellers can look forward to a rich mix of musical styles, ranging from soulful ballads to energetic rhythms that are sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Singer-songwriter, poet, and activist affectionately known as “The Voice,” Mahlasela is expected to sing his popular songs such as “Silang Mabele,” “Say Africa,” and “Thula Mama“; and his most beloved song, “When You Come Back.” His music blends traditional African music, folk, and jazz.

Pre-democracy, Mahlasela actively used his music to highlight the injustices of apartheid and became a fixture at political and cultural events.

His soaring vocals and poetic, uplifting lyrics were a vital soundtrack to the anti-Apartheid struggle and the nation’s subsequent transition to freedom. 

Amanda Black, the acclaimed South African songstress known for her powerful vocals and soulful lyrics. Black’s journey to stardom is well-known, with many of her fans recalling her early days as a contestant on Idols SA.

Her incredible talent was evident even then, and her loyal following has been with her every step of the way, from her first performances to her chart-topping hits like “Amazulu” and “Sinazo.”

Her music has a reputation for being more than just entertainment; it’s a source of comfort and healing for many. As one fan poignantly put it, her music has “healed so many souls,” but it does lead to a further question: “Who heals the healer?”

In 2015 Nathi Mankayi’s life changed. His hit “Nomvula” from his debut studio album “Buyelekhaya” propelled him to instant star status and lovers across Mzansi were swaying to “Bazali bam, ndibizeleni uNomvula wam, Thethani naye, ithani imbi le ndawo enam.”

Dr. Colbert Mukwevho is a celebrated producer, composer and musician who performs primarily in Tshivenda, while also incorporating Xitsonga and English into his music.

ALSO READ | Unathi returns with “Isikhwele”: A soulful journey of love and redemption

With more than 200 songs and 20 albums to his name, Mukwevho uses his music to address issues affecting ordinary people, including HIV/AIDS, gender equality, domestic violence, family conflict, politics, religion and social justice.

His work plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Vhavenda language, culture and traditions, while also serving as a platform for social commentary and protest.

Further cementing his status as one of South Africa’s most respected musicians, some of his music has been recorded in Jamaica, and in 2022, he received an honorary PhD in arts and social sciences from the University of Venda.

Tickets are available from R400 per person.