Mzansi’s premier jazz festival Joy of Jazz returns for its 23rd instalment at the Sandton Convention Centre on November 25 and 26.
Festival producer Mantwa Chinoamadi-Mutsinya said the 2022 Joy of Jazz will be a thrilling presentation of the ultimate African jazz experience after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Kicking off proceedings will be the sensational baritone Dumza Maswana with a set celebrating African songs. Maswana will perform with an all-star band including pianist Andile Yenana, bassist Shane Cooper, drummer Sakhi Nompozolo, reedman Sisonke Xonti, hornsman Sakhile Simani and Thandeka Mfinyongo on uHadi. They find fine balance in the incredibly gifted singer-songwriter Mandisi Dyantyis who will lift audiences with his infectious hymns.
Also on the bill is the band Mahube with music from Southern Africa and features saxophonist Steve Dyer and vocalists Muneyi and Siya Makuzeni (all from South Africa) with Xixel Langa (Mozambique) and Hope Masike (Zimbabwe).
One of the most exciting saxophonists and composers of his generation Linda Skhakhane together with a high-powered quintet that includes pianist Afrika Mkhize, drummer Sphelelo Mazibuko, bassist Benjamin Jephta and Siphamandla Dlamini will perform on the Dinaledi stage.
Along with this stream of youthful headline acts, the festival’s return will pay tribute to key jazz figures who passed away in the past two years.
Saxophonist and composer from the band Budaza, Linda Skhakhane, will pay a fitting tribute to the late village pope, Tshepo Tshola. Also paying homage to Tshola will be the prodigiously gifted songstress, Maleh featuring Leomile and Lioness.
In another notable salutation, Gloria Bosman will lead a glorious celebration of the music and legacy of the late grand matriarch of song, Sibongile Khumalo. The Horn Summit, a tribute to Bra Johnny Mekoa will honour the great trumpet maestro and founder of the Music Academy of Gauteng.
The musical magic of the people of Mozambique will be given fine expression by Maputo’s own Moreira Chonguiça with Irmandade (Brotherhood) featuring Jaco Maria. The guitar wizard of Maputo, Jimmy Dludlu, will also ascend to the Conga stage to wow jazz lovers with his singular sound.
Details: www.joyofjazz.co.za
