Johannesburg’s role in jazz’s history is one that cannot be stressed enough: Not only was the city a melting pot of political, social and cultural activities but it doubled as a stage for jazz musicians – a city built on blue notes and chords that were in sync with the changes the city went through.
Jazz clubs have remained a constant feature in Johannesburg – regardless of the structural and cultural changes the city has gone through – these clubs have inevitably turned the city into a heritage site for anyone looking to get a deeper understanding of the connection between Joburg and Jazz.
With origins in Troyeville, The Orbit Jazz Club & Bistro was one of the hottest jazz venues in the city. Now in Braamfontein, the venue has boasted a plethora of renowned and budding artists gracing their stages and delivering riveting performances – some notable artists include Abigail Kubeka, Banda-Banda, Judith Sephuma and Sibongile Khumalo.
The jazz club has kept the spirit of jazz alive in the city, but unfortunately it has now announced its closure on 2 January.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of The Orbit Live Music and Bistro. We have unfortunately not been able to overcome the financial constraints that we have found with running a live music venue like The Orbit,” said Kevin Naidoo, The Orbit’s director.
Last year, the jazz club called on the public to help keep the venue and music alive through the #SaveTheOrbit Thunda Fund campaign. The Orbit’s goal was to raise R1 000 000 by the end of September. Naidoo said the funds would have been used to set up The Orbit Non-Profit Organisation (NPO), update sound equipment, launch a streaming platform, repair the venue and ultimately preserve the jazz club’s legacy.
“We started in March 2014 and sincerely believe that we have had a positive impact on the music industry since inception. And we have been proud to showcase South African jazz to both a local and international audience,” Naidoo said.
Naidoo said he hoped the club would continue some of their external projects, including those with the Nelson Mandela Foundation and municipalities across the country in their mission of providing soul-enriching music.
“I would like to thank all musicians who have performed on our stage, for bearing their soul to us all and for giving us world-class performances,” said Naidoo.
