Another South African jazz veteran is in Cape Town – Khaya Mahlangu! He will be performing live on four stages for five nights – The Athletic Club & Social, Alliance Française du Cap, Grub & Wine’s Blue Room and Kwa Sec. KEANETSE MOKHOTHU received a resounding “yes” from the legendary reedman for a virtual tête-à-tête prior to his long-awaited live gigs in Cape Town.
What is the Khaya Mahlangu definition of South African jazz?
This question warrants a deeper reflection on what aspects or criteria makes it South African. I think it would be the music born out of the diverse cross-cultural influences, both rural and urban reflecting the lived experiences of the creators of the music. The impact and influence of the African-American art forms on our music reflects the umbilical connection with the African diaspora.
What local jazz subgenres stand out for you?
The discovery of diamonds brought about the migrant labour system, where thousands of Africans flocked to the cities. This influenced the birth of marabi, kwela and other genres. The various communities had their own adaptations of music in a new political system. The music of Ntemi Piliso, Zakes Nkosi, Todd Matshikiza, Makwenkwe Davashe, Kippie Moeketsi, Abdullah Ibrahim, Hugh Masekela, Jonas Gwangwa, Caiphus Semenya, Winston Mankunku Ngozi, Mongezi Feza, Johnny Dyani, Victor Ntoni, Chris McGregor, Eric Nomvete, Dudu Pukwana and so many others would exemplify the character of South African jazz.
It would be a cardinal sin to exclude the women who played an important role in the development of our Mzansi jazz, the likes of Dorothy Masuka, Miriam Makeba, Letta Mbulu, Thandi Klaasen, Dolly Rathebe, Thoko Mgcina, Busi Mhlongo, Marah Louw and numerous others.
Originality in sound, brand, building nurturing relationships etc, how does one cultivate all these within the industry?
Originality is another personal thing, by that I mean we all use the same vocabulary, but our speech mannerisms and ways of expression, differ from individual to individual. I have always maintained that I am part of a cogwheel of an ongoing tradition, both constant and gradual.
I am a product of my people and my music reflects where I come from, that is not my music but belongs to the people and I am just a medium through which it manifests.
Saxophonist Eddie Harris says and I quote, “It takes a lot of guts to be different in a society that pays extremely well for similarities.” We all come from somewhere and if you remain true to yourself and your goals, learning from the masters and those before you, you can find your own voice. Other than musical skills you also need to develop people skills, to nurture good relations with your band, fans and the broader public including the media.
Any advice you have on having an enduring musical career?
Having an enduring career in this industry depends on how much fire in the belly one has, a long life and a will to keep going against all odds. Of course, there is a higher power with a master plan for you, only if you discover yourself, who and what you are.
When forming a band, what traits do you resonate with?
My choice of musicians is those who can play different styles – because I write music in different styles.
What is the cause of the slow progress of local women becoming jazz musicians?
I would not know the answer. What do they say to this question? I believe that being a good musician has nothing to do with gender. As to why there is not so many, I would not know.
Khaya Mahlangu Cape Town gigs
The Athletic Club & Social
Wednesday, 22 March 2023, 8pm
R200
Tickets Quicket
35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
The Athletic Club & Social
Thursday, 23 March 2023, 9pm
R200
35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town
Tickets Quicket
Alliance Française du Cap
Friday, 24 March 2023, 7pm
R150 (Adults), R80 (Alliance Française students)
155 Loop Street, Cape Town
Tickets Quicket
Grub & Vine: Blue Room
Saturday, 25 March 2023, 8pm
R350 for the evening
103 Bree Street, Cape Town
Tickets www.theblueroomza.co.za/welcome, 087 153 5244
Kwa Sec
Sunday, 26 March 2023, 4pm
R120 (Adults), R100 (Pensioners and students)
53 Intshinga Street, Gugulethu,
Tickets Quicket
Who: Saxophonist Khaya Mahlangu
Albums: Streams, Khululeka, Visions
Social media: Instagram @khayamahlangumusic, Twitter @kmahlangumusic
WS
