(Above: Dumza Maswana)
Dumza Maswana just finished recording his much anticipated third studio album titled Celebrating African Song, which was produced by award-winning and globally-celebrated South African jazz pianist, Andile Yenana. The first single from the album Vumani is now out and available exclusively on Bandcamp. The album will be launched at Bat Centre, on January 30, 2022.
This album has always been Dumza Maswana’s dream, to combine his roots, the music he grew up listening to unconsciously, the music his grandmother taught him and the music he loves so much, Jazz, and the personnel chosen for this project executed the vision perfectly. Andile Yenana on piano, Ayanda Sikade on drums, Jimmy Mgwandi on double bass, Sisonke Xonti on tenor saxophone and the co-producer Lwanda Gogwana on trumpet, Lwanda also arranged horn section.
“This team consists of people who kind of have had an impact on my musical path so far, or who were sort of influenced by the same roots as me.” This album was recorded when the pandemic lockdown eased up and there were times where adjustments had to be made. “I kind of took some time to release this album, because I really wanted to make sure that it’s fully who I am as an artist,” says Maswana. “It’s exactly what I wanted to send out into the world and not just do a record, but do the record that I’ve always been dreaming about.
Known for the singular depth of his soothing baritone voice, Maswana fuses tradition, spiritually, soul and jazz to create sonic experiences that uplift, inspire and heal. He writes and sings from a place of knowing, reflecting his experiences and paying homage to his culture and home. In addition to being a musician, he is passionate about mentoring young artists, giving them the information and tools needed to succeed in the industry.
“I tell Eastern Cape stories first, especially from the villages. I think their stories, way of living, their music, language, and beliefs are often overlooked - our stories deserve to be heard.” - Dumza Maswana
Born in the vibrant small town of Ngqushwa, in the Eastern Cape, Maswana was drawn to music at an early age. His grandmother was his very first teacher, introducing him to the art of singing and storytelling. His passion for music impelled him to form Healing Voices, an all-male gospel group he started at 17 years old, before moving to Johannesburg, to further his musical interests.
He has shared the stage with some of South Africa’s most illustrious musicians, including Thandiswa Mazwai, Simphiwe Dana, Ringo Madlingozi, Tshepo Tshola, Sphokazi, the Jaziel Brothers, Mafikizolo, and the legendary Victor Ntoni. He has also opened up for international musicians Kenny Lattimore and Chanté Moore. He has been featured in the works of award-winning DJ Mobi Dixon and DJ Palture. Dumza has also worked with Black Motion.
The Dumza Maswana launch will take place on January 30, 2022, at 14h00. Doors open at 13h30. Capacity: 50
The Batcentre is situated at 45 Maritime place, Small Craft Harbour in Durban.
For more information, phone Thulile Zama on 072 788 5426, visit http://concertssa.co.za, follow @ConcertsSA on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ConcertsSA or Like on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ConcertsSA
This concert is made possible by The SAMRO Foundation/Concerts SA. Concerts SA is a joint South African/Norwegian live music development project housed under the auspices of SAMRO and managed by IKS Cultural Consulting. Concerts SA receives financial, administrative and technical support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SAMRO and the SAMRO Foundation. Working with musicians, promoters, venue owners and audiences, and providing support to the sector through research and skills development for music professionals, the project aims to build a vibrant and viable live music circuit in southern Africa. It also aims to develop an interest in and appreciation of live music by showcasing music performances and conducting workshops at schools.
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