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Sunday, June 30, 2024

ETHEKWINI JAZZ JAM

 

(Pics supplied)

 (“Bafo” Dr Madala Kunene)

A first for Durban!  Wrap up your Durban July Handicap weekend, with some glorious mellow Sunday jazz-fusion at the one-day eThekwini Jazz Jam to be held at the MSC Nelson Mandela Durban Cruise Terminal at Durban’s Point on Sunday July 7.

Phambili Media, working in conjunction with Durban Tourism, are encouraging out of town visitors to the Durban July to join local jazz lovers for an exciting Sunday. What could personify that theme more than a beautifully-crafted programme of Jazz-inspired fusion music held at the Durban Cruise Terminal, right on the ocean’s edge? A calm and mellow cultural counterpoint to the frenetic majesty of horseracing thoroughbreds and high fashion, the day before.

This may well be the first time that the public have had the opportunity to visit the Durban Cruise Terminal which typically is not open to the public. The Terminal is one of the anchor destinations in the Point Precinct, not far from uShaka Marine World, a host of fine restaurants and coffee shops along the canals, and the Durban Underwater Club – all with magnificent harbour views.

A full and varied programme of eclectic music is on the cards. Among the incredible acts signed up to perform are Durban’s own soul and blues guitarist, “Bafo” Dr Madala Kunene whose distinctive African folk singing style has earned his place as one of Durban’s foremost cultural icons. He has been suffering critical health issues in recent times, and the music world is delighted that he is recovered and is eager to perform again. eThekwini Jazz Jam may well be his first major performance post-surgery.

(Left: Zonke Dikana)

We are delighted to welcome R&B and Afro-soul singer Zonke Dikana who has long been one of the country’s most accomplished songwriters. She has carved out a distinctive position in the musical landscape. She’s one of the country’s biggest stars and unlike almost every other female singer on the SA music scene currently, Zonke not only has a fan base of thousands, and releases multi-platinum albums, she also writes and produces her own material. She has written and co-written hits for dance artist Winnie Khumalo, kwaito rapper Thebe, late R&B star TK and also worked with legends like Bongo Maffin and Oskido. 

 

Personifying contemporary Jazz-fusion is actor, singer, dancer, songwriter Tubatsi Mpho Moloi, who is influenced by the sounds of blues, jazz, rock and African folk music. His music asks the audience to be open-minded and exploratory as he brings a collaboration of sound and genre in creating an authentic fusion folk sound. His newest work is inspired by a range of diverse artists, such as Guy Buttery, Philip Tabane, Bob Dylan and Zim Ngqawana. Tubatsi’s early musical influence came from his childhood home in Soweto, Johannesburg. He is currently the lead vocalist for Urban Village, an experimental band from Soweto, contributing flute, guitar and mbira to the stage. 


(Right: Mnqobi Yazo)

Performing a vibrant blend of Isicathamiya, Afro Jazz and Maskandi, Mnqobi Yazo’s brand is proudly African, with his music deeply rooted in traditional Zulu music with a modern twist. His unique vocal tone has made a favourite feature for the country’s leading musicians such as the legendary Shwi Nomtekhala, Big Zulu, Nathi and others. He is also a gifted composer, writer and producer; he acts; is a voice-over artist and has experience on stage and in film.  For someone who is barely 30, he boasts an impressive and extensive CV!

The theme for this year’s Durban July, Ride the Wave. Once you have ridden the frenetic and powerful Durban July tsunami of a Wave, enjoy some calm ocean swells at the eThekwini Jazz Jam on Sunday July 7, from 12h00 pm to 12h00 am.

To purchase early bird tickets, click the link below:

R400 – General. R750 - VIP

https://www.ticketpros.co.za/portal/web/index.php/event/ee7b0d49-6542-97b4-ab43-66266d273f2d

 

Stay in touch:

Instagram: @Phambilimedia_sa

Instagram: @ethekwini_jazz.jam

Facebook: Ethekwini Jazz Jam

Twitter: @dbn_jazzjam

TikTok: dbn_jazzjam

 

To purchase early bird tickets, click the link below:

R400 - General

R750 - VIP

https://www.ticketpros.co.za/portal/web/index.php/event/ee7b0d49-6542-97b4-ab43-66266d273f2d