Local music superstars Msaki, Shekinah and Vusi Mahlasela will headline Joburg’s signature rhythm and blues concert scheduled for live streaming on Thursday, 27 and Friday, 28 May from 7 pm.

The virtual concert, which celebrates Africa Month will be hosted alongside a music workshop, which will also be streamed on https://afroarts.co.za as well as the AfricanWomenWritersNetwork page on Facebook.

The workshop is designed for budding musicians and will focus on the intricacies of the entertainment industry for future Joburg artists who plan to pursue a career in songwriting.

The much-anticipated music extravaganza, which is the second leg of the two-day programme will feature contemporary vocalist Bonj and bassist Aus Tebza on the bill. The two have toured and recorded internationally and will join the concert as guest artists.

Standard Bank Young Artist award winner, trombone player, vocalist and composer Siya Makuzeni will also make an appearance.

Other artists on the line-up include piano maestro Yonela Mnana, The Brother Moves On, Albert Frost, Andre Kriel from Black Cat Bones, actress and singer Nelisiwe Sibiya, Themby Khumalo, Femi Koya, legendary SA guitarist Bra Themba Mokoena, Gunshot Blue, and vocalist Lindsay McGuire.

Organisers say the concert is streamed online in adherence to Covid-19 protocols.

“The concert programme features a wide range of local artists who will reflect different genres and the different ages of music lovers,” says Roshnie Moonsammy, the event organiser.

Moonsammy notes that the concert is also held to celebrate frontline workers on the continent, who have helped Africa combat the Covid-19 pandemic.

She says music is integral to the journey of survival and healing against afflictions of the global pandemic.

“The concert will inspire individuals to go through this period marked by social distance,” she adds.

Moonsammy says the virtual concert aims to use entertainment to ease the suffering and pain that South Africa and all of Africa has suffered in the past few months of national lockdowns and deaths that have surrounded lives, families and friends.

“We have assembled an in-house Rhythm and Blues band directed by acclaimed jazz artist Avzal Ismail. It comprises a stellar range of South African jazz musicians of the likes of Mandla Mlangeni (Trumpet), Sisonke Xonti (Sax), Sims Tshabala (Drums), Thapelo Khumisi (Keys), Nhlanhla Radebe (Bass) and Mark Komane (Guitarist),” she explains.

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