Madala Kunene is not just a musician; he is a musical shaman, weaving a tapestry of sound that captures Africa’s heart and the blues’ soul. His journey from Cato Manor to the global stage is a testament to the transformative power of music—a legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Charismatic guitar savant Sibusile Xaba reframes Maskandi and the avant-garde into his own humanist manifesto. Xaba’s music shatters the confines of genre, taking only the fundamentals from mentors such as Madala Kunene and Dr Philip Tabane and imbuing these with a mythology and improvisational intensity all of his own.
In an ever-changing music landscape, Madala Kunene’s music remains a beacon of authenticity and tradition. His ability to uphold his roots while embracing change serves as a guiding light for artists and promoters alike. Kunene’s legacy transcends generations, shaping the future of South African music and inspiring artists worldwide. As a mentor for Sibusile Xaba for over a decade, this project sees them collaborate and present new compositions. The show at the John Kani will be the first performance of these new songs.