Ayanda Sikade will be in Cape Town from 29 September to 2 October 2022! The same player who is known for his signature phrase, “it’s on.” The one who many in the South African jazz industry regard as a merger between the legends and the descendants. KEANETSE MOKHOTHU got in touch with this drummer who wears many hats. A musician who means different things to different members of the SA jazz world.
The drum kit has many pieces, what’s your favourite?
In jazz there is a standard configuration for jazz drums, which is a 4-piece set consisting of the bass drum, a snare drum and 2 toms, namely high tom and a floor tom. Because this formation has been used by all masters of this craft, it gives me a lot of satisfaction to use just a few drums to create a whole world of sounds just by using this standard kit.
According to a January 2022 interview with Atiyyah Khan you attended Tete Mbambisa, Tally Goduka, Tex Nduluka, Lulama Gaulana, Pat Matshikiza’s rehearsals daily after school in the 80s. What are the lessons you learned?
Humility was one of the best lessons I got from these sessions, and also to love music and dedicate your life to more than anything else.
What are the full-proof methods for a South African jazz musician to cultivate a natural, unadulterated sound they are to be known for?
Always be yourself and listen to your inner voice, which will always lead you to your true self.
What makes you play less in some circumstances?
I believe the minute you realize that you have given enough, is when it is time to let go and play with others.
Which qualities do you prefer when choosing ensemble members – great example would be the band you are performing with in Cape Town?
Sound and great musicianship are the key for me, so with this band I am really fortunate to have such a high calibre of musicians helping me out to realize the upcoming performances. I am grateful.
What is your definition of South African jazz?
It is the music of love, culture and a new way of creating new narratives, including the introduction of spiritual gifts as a major player in the music.
Umakhulu, your latest album, is nine months old. How has the reception been?
I had great time taking the music to the people, and I proudly say lots of people have shown so much love and satisfaction and appreciation.
You are performing at four different venues in and around Cape Town. Indulge us please regarding the repertoire per audience, per venue?
All I can say is that come and you will be healed by the sound. I am looking forward to playing for anybody and everybody.
Ayanda Sikade Live in Cape Town 2022
Athletic Club & Social
Thursday, 29 September from 9pm
R200
35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
Tickets Quicket
Alliance Française du Cap
Friday, 30 September from 7pm
R150
155 Loop Street, Cape Town
Bookings Whatsapp Koko Nkalashe: 083 441 4760
Grub & Vine, The Blue Room
Saturday, 01 October from 7h30pm, 9h30pm
R300
103 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre
Tickets www.grubandvine.co.za
Kwa Sec
Sunday, 2 October from 3pm
R150 – Students & Pensioners; R100
Intshinga Street No. 52 Gugulethu
Bookings Whatsapp Koko Nkalashe: 083 441 4760
Who: Drummer Ayanda Sikade
Albums: Umakhulu, Movements, Kwetu with Herbie Tsoaeli, Aaron Rimbui
Social media: Facebook – Ayanda Sikade, Instagram – @sikadeayanda
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