Inter-generational exchange of talent: SA giants to light up Diamond City Jazz Festival Stage
As the Diamond City Jazz Festival honours a generational talent exchange and brings together jazz greats and 'soon-to-be legends' for an evening of unmatched brilliance, a musical legacy is being created.
Sipho 'Hotstix' Mabuse, a pioneer in South African jazz and popular music, has inspired generations with timeless hits. Picture credit: Supplied
JOHANNESBURG - The sound of African jazz has been influenced by these superstars for decades, fusing local rhythms with international styles to produce music that is universal.
As the Diamond City Jazz Festival honours a generational talent exchange and brings together jazz greats and "soon-to-be legends" for an evening of unmatched brilliance, a musical legacy is being created.
Iconic performers like Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse, McCoy Mrubata, Steve Dyer, and Bhudaza Mapefane will perform alongside a new generation of musicians at the festival, which will be held in Botswana at the Bojanala Waterfront. This will further highlight jazz’s timeless essence and development.
Festival director, McCoy Mrubata, a great saxophonist, has spearheaded Cape jazz by combining tradition and modern sounds, while "Hotstix" Mabuse, a pioneer in South African jazz and popular music, has inspired generations with immortal anthems like Burn Out.
More than just a concert, this year's festival is a cross-cultural meeting place for creativity and knowledge. In addition to sharing the stage with seasoned performers, up-and-coming artists like Mpumi Dhlamini, Nono Siile, Azana, Jordan Moozy, and Mpho Sebina will also provide new viewpoints to the genre.
The occasion serves as a reminder that jazz is still a vibrant art form that embraces the future while paying tribute to the past.
"Jazz is about storytelling, and every generation adds its own voice to the narrative,” says festival curator, Rapula Kegopilwe. "This festival ensures that the knowledge, technique, and passion of legends like Hotstix, McCoy, and Bhudaza don’t fade but instead ignite new flames in young musicians."
"Beyond merely celebrating music, the Diamond City Jazz Festival serves as a forum for cross-cultural interaction, community involvement, and artistic expression. Along with the star-studded concerts, the festival will provide regional handicrafts, delectable food, and chances for fans to interact with artists and each other," Kegopilwe continued.