It’s that time of the year in Durban, when the ocean tides bring the unique
sounds that together remind us who we are.
Friday Live @ KZNSA with Madala Kunene and
Mabi Thobejane is another special collaboration presented by Headroom Events.
Veteran master drummer Mabi was born in Mamelodi (Pretoria, South Africa) and
at an early stage watched and learned the drumming of the Balobedu tribe
gathering in his neighborhood. He learned not only how to hit the drum, but
more importantly where. Mabi's mum tried to stop him from drumming by beating
him constantly as she believed he was destined to be a priest. Meanwhile Mabi
fetched skins from the tannery and started making his own drums, risking
another beating from his mother when playing in front of the Kguludi's shebeen
(local tavern). When his uncle, Dr.
Phillip Tabane - one of the great African guitarists - discovered the
talent in the family he asked Mabi to join him as the drummer to form what
became one of the top bands in South Africa in the 70's - the Malombo Jazzmen.
This collaboration between “Bafo” as Madala Kunene is fondly called and
Thobejane is like a prayer. Bafo, who also stood the everyday beating from his
parents for not wanting to go to school, is an icon that needs no introduction
Friday Live @ KZNSA takes place tomorrow (October 25) at 18h00 at the KZNSA
Gallery, 166 Bulwer Road , Glenwood (Durban). Admission:R60. To book call Arts
Cafe on 031 201 9969.
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