At the Cradle of Humankind, the Sounds of the Cradle music festival once again proved that good vibes and great music can unite people from all walks of life. The event blended nostalgic and alternative sounds to offer a fresh take on what South African live music feels like today.
The festival created a space for connection. From classic tracks that shaped the country’s sonic identity to experimental sets that pushed boundaries, every performance added to a shared rhythm that pulled the crowd together. It was not just about who was performing; it was about the feeling that moved through the audience from start to finish. Friends laughed, strangers danced side by side and the atmosphere felt like a reunion of energy, sound and spirit.
The highlight came when TKZee took to the stage with a full seven-piece band. From the first note, the crowd knew they were in for something special. Their performance wasn’t just a throwback; it was a full-scale reimagining of their hits, transforming familiar anthems into rich, layered live experiences. The addition of brass, percussion and vocal harmonies turned songs that once ruled dance floors into living, breathing performances that felt both new and timeless.
Each beat carried the energy of the late 90s kwaito era but with the polish and power of a seasoned live act. People shouted lyrics word for word, arms in the air, phones up to capture a moment that felt like collective memory brought to life. There was laughter, dancing and that unmistakable sense that everyone, from longtime fans to first-timers, was part of something bigger than nostalgia. TKZee reminded the audience why their sound continues to define South African music culture, because it still moves people, body and soul.
Sounds of the Cradle is quickly becoming one of those events that defines the season, not through hype but through feeling. It’s a space where the past and present meet, where the sound of South Africa evolves while keeping its heart intact.
Photography: @Lerumo_
