As the CTIJF draws near, Thandiswa Mazwai stands ready to cast her spell through music, holding the promise of heartfelt connections and a celebration of jazz that is, as she states, both revolutionary and soulful.
Image: File image
As the vibrant notes of jazz prepare to echo through the halls of the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Thandiswa Mazwai stands on the brink of another memorable performance, embodying the very essence of this audacious genre.
With a career that spans decades, Mazwai looks back at her musical journey ahead of the eagerly anticipated Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), reflecting on her roots, influences, and the dynamic power of live music.
Renowned as one of South Africa's most influential musical voices, Mazwai's latest masterpiece, "Sankofa”, released in 2024, continues to challenge and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression.
She originally burst onto the scene in the late 1990s as a member of the beloved groups Jack Knife and Bongo Maffin.
Over time, she has transcended her early beginnings, establishing herself as a solo artist whose innovative sound interlaces traditional African rhythms with the contemporary stylings of jazz and soul.
Her debut album, "Zabalaza", introduced listeners to her captivating voice and the profound themes of identity, struggle, and resilience embedded in her lyrics.
Through her artistry, Mazwai has evolved into not just an entertainer but a beacon of inspiration within the rich cultural tapestry of SA.
Her melodies encapsulate the consciousness of a generation awakening from the ashes of apartheid, echoing both nostalgia and the complexities of modern-day discontent.
Thandiswa Mazwai has transcended her early beginnings, establishing herself as a solo artist whose innovative sound interlaces traditional African rhythms with the contemporary stylings of jazz and soul.
Image: ANOQI
The title of her latest album, "Sankofa”, which translates from the Ghanaian Twi language as "to go back and fetch what has been left behind”, resonates deeply within her latest work.
Drawing from archival Xhosa samples from the International Library of African Music at Rhodes University, she weaves historical musical elements seamlessly into a sound as fresh as it is rooted in tradition, fusing them with the intricacies of jazz and West African music.
What sets Mazwai apart is not solely her musical talent but also her fearless commitment to innovation and collaboration.
Her willingness to partner with a diverse range of musicians showcases her dedication to evolving the art form.
Alongside her creative pursuits, Mazwai's advocacy for women's rights and empowerment in SA remains front and centre.
She inspires young women to find their voices and challenge societal norms, demonstrating that music can indeed be a powerful tool for transformation.
Set to grace the Kippies stage at this year’s CTIJF, Mazwai shared her profound appreciation for jazz during a recent interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”.
Known for her passionate and heartfelt performances, she opened up about the life-changing impact of jazz on her artistry and personal life.
Reminiscing about her debut at the CTIJF, she recalled a prophetic moment performing with an all-woman horn section, playing Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti's “Zombie”.
"I probably had some political reason for doing that at the time,” she said. This experience ignited a flame within her career, infusing it with the cultural significance inherent in jazz.
The allure of music captured Mazwai from childhood; it served as an intimate refuge, igniting her imagination.
"Music always made me feel like a mad scientist," she expressed.
An iconic moment occurred when her uncle Fitzroy Ngcukana moved in, filling her home with inspiring jazz and R&B vinyl records.
"In the 80s, it was the first time I had a sound system in our home,” she reflected, “It was a sound that blew my mind."
Her musical journey continued to blossom during her university days in the ‘90s when she frequented the iconic Kippies Jazz Club.
"I watched legends like Hugh Masekela and Louis Moholo perform," Mazwai reminisced. One significant album that left a lasting impression was Miles Davis's "Tutu”, dedicated to the revered Bishop Desmond Tutu.
"I had the album poster up on my wall," she noted, highlighting the deep connection between jazz and the socio-political movements she admires.
This year's CTIJF line-up has Mazwai excited, not just for herself but for future generations.
"My daughter, who is 25, is excited to see some of the sets," she enthused, praising the festival's ability to captivate new audiences.
As attendees anticipate what Mazwai will bring to the stage, she promises a feast of improvisation, freedom, and spirit - hallmarks of jazz that resonate deeply with her artistry.
"Jazz is revolution. It is spiritual; it is folklore," said Mazwai, embodying the essence of the genre that has served as the foundational backdrop for her creative expressions.
For her, live music is a unique and ephemeral experience; "No single show is the same as the next, and the audience makes the moment."
This connection between the artist and the audience is what she cherishes most about her performances.
As the CTIJF draws near, Thandiswa Mazwai stands ready to cast her spell through music, holding the promise of heartfelt connections and a celebration of jazz that is, as she states, both revolutionary and soulful.
Image: File image
Having established herself as a mainstay at CTIJF, Mazwai appreciates the festival’s long-standing commitment to nurturing both performers and listeners.
"It is great that we still have those long-standing festivals that uphold standards in both audience and band experience," she said.
Eager to share her latest work, Mazwai will introduce selections from her recent album "Sankofa”, co-produced with celebrated artists including Meshell Ndegeocello and Nduduzo Makhathini, ensuring that her set incorporates new material alongside timeless classics.
As the festival draws near, Mazwai stands ready to cast her spell through music, holding the promise of heartfelt connections and a celebration of jazz that is, as she states, both revolutionary and soulful.
This year’s CTIJF is set for Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Tickets range from R950 to R1,500, available for purchase through Ticketmaster. For more information, visit www.capetownjazzfest.com or download the festival app from your App Store, and follow @officialcapetownjazzfestival on social media.
Lutho Pasiya’s picks on Mazwai’s songs to get you in the CTIJF mood:
