Recently, 10and5 had the privilege of attending a remarkable concert at the Joburg Theatre, where we witnessed an unforgettable night celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa.
The concert featured a legendary lineup, including Ringo Madlingozi, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, Mahotella Queens, Simphiwe Dana, Siphokazi, and Hope Masike, who all took the stage to perform some of their timeless classics and share stories that resonated deeply with the audience.
The second edition of this popular concert, Mayibuye iAfrika, commemorated three decades of South African democracy by bringing together these iconic artists for a reflective journey through the power of song.
It was a celebration of the nation’s progress, with music serving as the vehicle for exploring the triumphs and challenges faced along the way.
The mastermind behind Mayibuye iAfrika is the renowned guitarist, author, composer, and arranger Billy Monama. Driven by his passion for researching South Africa’s liberation history, Monama created this concert to honor patriotic artists who were instrumental in the fight for freedom.
Says Monama, “Mayibuye iAfrika is a musical commemoration of South African freedom songs and their composers, with the aim of promoting social cohesion, cross-cultural understanding, and rich artistic African heritage, and the rebirth of Ubuntu”.
As the evening unfolded, each performance was not just a trip down memory lane but also a powerful reminder of the role music played in the nation’s history. The stories shared by these legends highlighted how their music was a voice for the voiceless, expressing messages that needed to be heard during pivotal moments in South Africa’s journey to democracy.
The concert was more than just entertainment; it was an homage to the resilience and spirit of a nation. Through soulful renditions and heartfelt narratives, the artists encapsulated the essence of what it means to be South African, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of pride and unity.
In essence, Mayibuye iAfrika was a profound celebration of the past, present, and future of South Africa’s musical and cultural landscape. It was a night where legends united to remind us of the power of music in shaping and reflecting our shared history.
