Jazz on the Lake had fans calling for more
08 September 2015
Angelique Kidjo, the West African superstar and Grammy award-winning singer, warmed the hearts of jazz lovers who had braved the cold weather to attend this year’s Jazz on the Lake concert – an offering of the 2015 Arts Alive International Festival – in Melrose on Sunday September 6.
Despite the icy weather, families came out in fairly good numbers with their blankets, camping chairs and picnic baskets to be part of this jazz extravaganza, make friends and soak up the good music.
The revellers – who included Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development Clr Chris Vondo and his wife, Nosisekelo – stomped their feet, snapped their fingers and sang along as Kidjo dished out one African melody after another to their delight.
Kidjo, with her trademark blonde hair, had fans screaming for more when she belted Pata Pata and Malaika in memory of the late legendary Miriam Makeba. Of course, Kidjo would not leave the stage without rendering her golden hit, Agolo. After many years of wooing music lovers all over the world, she showed she still had the energy and stamina to keep fans on the dance floor.
Jimmy Dludlu, South Africa’s internationally renowned guitarist, who took the stage after Kidjo, also did not disappoint the fans, who had patiently waited for him to soothe their souls with his songs. Despite the icy weather, the mood was great.
Jazz on the Lake is part of the City of Johannesburg’s Arts Alive International Festival, a month-long season of music, theatre, dance, film and comedy.
This year’s Jazz on the Lake lineup included Sly and Robbie, the legendary rhythm section duo who have played on more than 200 000 recordings featuring a backing band comprising Erik Paliani on guitar; Tlale Makhene on percussion; Senzo Mzimela, Linda Sikhakhane and Sthembiso Bhengu on horns; and Thando “Magickeyz” Mathebula on keyboards.
They also had fans screaming for more after dishing out the reggae hit, Murder She Wrote.
Femi Koya of Nigeria, an internationally acclaimed Afro jazz and gospel singer, made the revellers dance to his tunes Makoti and Rofo Rofo Talk.
Amandla Freedom Ensemble, up-and-coming Inganekwane Quartet from Swanieville and Shef and Kitchen Music from Orange Farm completed the lineup.
The day started early, with people streaming into venue from as early as 10am.
MMC Vondo described the concert as “exciting and good”. He said the turnout was great despite the cold weather. He said he hoped that next year’s concert would be held at the same venue with a larger turnout attending.