Press release:

The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music proudly presents Abasemkhathini and the Songs of uNomkhubulwane featuring Nduduzo Makhathini and Mbuso Khoza with special guests Linda Sikhakhane and Nomangungu on Wednesday 28 August 2024 at 17:30.

Abasemkhathini is a musical project that features pianist Nduduzo Makhathini and vocalist Mbuso Khoza. The idea of this project is that of creating sounds that posses ‘cosmic consciousness’ by way of bringing in various African cultural memories (and IKS) into contemporary discourse(s). In line with such aims, Makhathini has been working with the notion of uNomkhubulwane as a symbol, a mother and a myth, he has been touring this project since its release in early June under the prestigious Blue Note Records label. As Abasemkhathini, the two musicians will be exploring what they have termed as ‘the Songs of uNomkhubulwane’ which will engage this new suit by Makhathini, and an evolving songbook that him and Khoza have been creating over the years. 

The duet will be joined by two special guests, saxophonist and composer Linda Sikhakhane, and poet and cultural worker Nomangungu who is a member of the African Heritage Ensemble. 

She will be performing with her pianist Mthoko Mabuza, in the framework of a Southern Africa tour in collaboration with The Headroom Studios, and with the support of the French Institute and the French Embassy in South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi.

As part of an exciting line-up, An opening act has been added. The opening act feature Rwandan Afro-Folk artist Nirere Shanel. She will be accompanied by pianist Mthoko Mabuza, with courtesy extended by The Music Imbizo. This performance is part of a Southern Africa tour supported by the French Institute and the French Embassy in South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi.

Nirere Shanel believes in the transformational power of music. Her poignant lyrics and smooth voice deeply captivate her audience, and her talent shines through in mesmerizing performances.

Self-taught, Nirere Shanel discovered her passion for music at the age of thirteen, crafting heartfelt compositions honoring the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. In 2009, she released her debut album, “Ndarota,” which blends modern tunes with Rwandan traditions and earned her recognition in her homeland. Awarded a music scholarship in 2012 by the Institut Français, she expanded her musical horizons by collaborating with esteemed artists such as Alune Wade and Gael Faye.

On January 5th, 2024, Nirere Shanel will release “Uzaze EP,” a collection of six songs exploring themes of embracing womanhood while navigating social norms, fusing Latino and Rwandan sounds.

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the beautiful voice and extraordinary talent of Nirere Shanel from Rwanda!

Event Details:

Doors open at 17:00, Music starts at 17:30

UKZN, Centre for Jazz and Popular Music

University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Howard College Campus, Dennis Shepstone Building, Level 2

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1551872790

pic Dr Makhathini : D47A5764.JPG – Google Drive 

 

Tickets: R120, R90 for pensioners, R60 for students