Legendary musician Babsy Mlangeni (80) gets honoured in a special curated tribute concert in honour of his rich immense contribution and footprints to the South African arts and music industry at the Soweto Theater, over the weekend.
Mlangeni who hails from Soweto became the first blind superstar on the continent, and climbed to be amongst the history books with a stellar musical catalogue spanning over 50 years in the music industry despite his disability.
The concert offered a reflective musical journey of Babsy Mlangeni as a music legend consisting of the finest tunes that were composed by Babsy in his times.
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Zinzi Ngcobo, the youngest of the Mlangani daughters said the concert was a massive recognition.
“It has been a rollercoaster, because health wise we have been worried but tonight has been a wonderful experience of going down memory lane.
“Growing up and seeing his disability and still going on to being acknowledged on the continent. He has always been such a humble person and we are honoured to see this happen, especially while he is still alive and well with us.
“We have seen him go out to tour while we were still young and he dedicated so much of himself to the music industry and sharing his love with everyone but was equally dedicated himself to being a father and husband,” Ngcobo said.
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The stage dazzled by vocalists Langa Mavuso, Brian Temba, and acapella group COMPLETE serenaded the audience with some of his hits before the man of the hour took to the stage.
Renowned Jazz muso and musical director, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse said the recognition was crucial to preserving the history and culture of the country.
“This for me is one of the most important privileges. I’ve known the man for most of my musical life. The invitation to work and celebrate him is such an honour. I am grateful that the City, Joburg theaters have realised the importance of honouring people. Any country that does not celebrate its own artists is doomed to fail as a state,” Mabuse said.
The legends tribute, in its second year running celebrates legendary artists in various spheres of SA music, previously featured Mlangani along with Abigail Kubeka, PJ Powers, Soul Brothers and Blondie Makhene at the Legends Tribute with Mabuse in September 2022.
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James Ngcobo, Artistic Director at Joburg City Theaters added “When this idea was roposed, I had to go through the difficult task and I called Tshepo Mngoma because our biggest problem was that Babsy has written so many songsI was listening, and listening and not knowing which one to choose-.
All his songs have his heart on them but the one thing about Babsy he was able to write all these wonderful songs during a difficult time in our country.
“Love songs that helped us transcend the pain and the anarchy of the time and he was able to write these songs and created a what if world.”
