VIDEO: Soulful jazz group remain true to Afro sound

"Older generations can buy and listen to our music as it represents and also accommodate their time."

November 4, 2017

Thato Mahlangu 2 minutes read

18118658_1782057292_40165 — ArtSpoken members performing at an event. Photo: Facebook.

Members of the poetry band ArtSpoken, are making their mark on the showbiz scene and have remained true to their African sound.

The group tells African stories with the accompaniment of guitar, keyboard and percussions.

The Beautiful sounds of ArtSpoken Band from Soshanguve. So much talent in Mzansi 💫💛#BlackBoyMagic pic.twitter.com/eZlEF8J3fO

— Canny Maphanga (@CannyMaphanga) October 20, 2017

The group is made up of Kefilwe Leeka (the band’s producer and keyboardist), Lehlogonolo Seodisha (guitarist and vocalist) and Lebogang Leeka (percussionist and vocalist). Their unique talent blends in with the distinct sound they produce.

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ArtSpoken SA is the future. All the way from Soshanguve. Watch the video and tell me good… https://t.co/lVTsLgtVxI

— John Molepo (@john_molepo_840) October 9, 2017

Within the wide range of narrative poetry, storytelling and praise poetry (direto), there are songs like Bothata, a rhythmic tale of a 12-year-old young girl who was kidnapped, raped and then murdered.

The band’s work reflects on stories of the people and how they deal with social ills and celebrate achievements.

Artspoken SA. On #Thobelafm..woow the hustle of these guys is real #100%youth

— Mpho🇿🇦 (@Mphostyli) October 26, 2017

ArtSpoken manager Ronald Resenga said: “The backbone of the music we produce is spoken word saturated in modern indigenous sounds. This inspires a mix of Afro jazz and contemporary sounds suggesting a range of influences from groups like Kwame Experience and Stimela. You can pick up some Phillip Tabane and Malombo in the music we create too,” he said.

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He said their music captured and spoke to the young and old.

“Older generations can buy and listen to our music as it represents and also accommodate their time,” he said.

I still don't understand why @Artspoken sa didn't make the cut of top 21 on #SAGT I mean @DJFreshSA, Jamie and Mam shado were so moved

— Mpho🇿🇦 (@Mphostyli) October 16, 2017

Recently, the group took part in the talent search competition, SA’s Got Talent, where they wowed judges, radio veterans Shado Twala and DJ Fresh.

Watch the video here:

[Watch] They brought tears to @DJFreshSA's eyes! What did you think of ArtSpoken's performance? #SAGT pic.twitter.com/Jk1IBh7blP

— SA's Got Talent (@SAsGotTalent) October 12, 2017

ArtSpoken, in existence for two years, has serenaded music lovers at numerous social events, including weddings, corporate functions, concerts and theatre.

“In 2016, the group took part in a music competition Puisano hosted by Gauteng department of arts and sports. We obtained second position, something we feel proud of,” said Resenga.

Insert tweet:

Artspoken performing on SABC 1 big ups.

— #SomeWhereKoKasi (@Thesoulfulkid) October 26, 2017

Resenga said having been given the opportunity to perform at the tribute concert in Mamelodi, on the same stage with the legendary jazz icon Hugh Masekela, it assured them that the group was on the right path.

Later this year they will perform at the SA State Theatre’s Rendezvous Theatre alongside poet Marvin Moane.