DURBAN vocalist, Zoe the Seed (Zoe Masuku) will perform at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Jazz and Popular Music on November 3.
Her performance forms part of the Centre’s popular Trios concerts, a three-week series that will feature Neil Gonsalves on November 10 and duo, N’den on November 17.
Speaking to the Berea Mail, Masuku said her music also tackles social issues.
“We will perform new music that reflects the Covid-19 pandemic. There’s a lot of reflection that one had to do, not just as an artist but as a person. I’ve expressed my experience of the pandemic as well as other social issues. I am very interested in anti-gender based violence, and anti-child abuse initiatives. I’ve never been a victim, but I have seen and experienced this through my friends and people in my community,” she said.
Masuku is looking forward to reviving live music performances through the series.
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“I have missed live performances. There’s something amazing about a live performance. You feed off the energy of the audience as you feel their reactions. It’s an amazing experience. It’ can’t be replaced,” she said.
When asked to describe jazz, she said, “Jazz is an art form that allows you to be yourself. It doesn’t limit you. It’s spontaneous, because of the characteristics of improvisation. It’s a very authentic expression,” she said.
Some of the most notable artists she has worked with include Ernest Dawkins, Salim Washington, Themba Mkhize, Alou April, Africa Mkhize, Ernie Smith and Nduduzo Makhathini. She studied at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and obtained her bachelor’s degree in jazz and popular music. She also holds a certificate in education and is active in teaching private lessons to aspiring vocalists like herself.
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Masuku has led her band for six years and has performed her music and covers at venues and festivals across the country. She is known for her beautiful sound, energy and a voice with the clarity and power of superstars such as Aretha Franklin.
“I appreciate and acknowledge the strides of women in leadership who have carried out change, not only through words, but also in their actions, like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Winnie Mandela, Sibongile Mazibuko and Zozibini Tunzi. These women have stood tall by addressing issues that affect people’s lives. I also have immense respect for the women who nourished our souls with beautiful sounds and melodies like Dorothy Masuka, Letta Mbuli, Mama Africa and Sibongile Khumalo. We have carried every word, and every sound and this will reflect in my performance,” said the performer.
Zoe the Seed will be joined by Thabo Sikhakhane on trumpet, Siyalo Zulu on trombone, Zibusiso Makhathini on keys, Dalisu Ndlazi on bass guitar and Sbu Zondi on drums.
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