Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, McCoy Mrubata, Steve Dyer, and Bhudaza Mapefane are set to grace the stage alongside rising stars like Mpumi Dhlamini, Nono Siile, Azana, Jordan Moozy, and Mpho Sebina at the upcoming Diamond City Jazz Festival at Bojanala Waterfront in Botswana on 29 March 2025.
Mabuse, a true pioneer of South African jazz, not only performs at the festival but also holds the role of festival director, continuing to inspire generations with classics like “Burn Out”. Mrubata brings a unique blend of Cape jazz traditions with modern sounds, while Mapefane’s soulful saxophone and deep Sesotho jazz roots add a rich layer to the lineup. Dyer, a master saxophonist and flautist known for his versatility, completes the stellar roster of performers.
I had the opportunity to catch up with Mpumi Dhlamini during his rehearsals for the festival, only to discover that he is not only a talented musician but also heavily involved behind the scenes in production. Dhlamini, a self-taught musician with a passion for learning, plays a multitude of instruments and has become a sought-after music producer, film scorer, and composer.
Dhlamini’s musical journey began when he was searching for a second instrument to study during his high school years at the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg. Despite facing challenges, he immersed himself in learning the piano, ultimately releasing his first album just three years after starting to play the instrument at the age of 17.
Fast forward nearly two decades, and Dhlamini has established himself as a celebrated multi-instrumentalist and award-winning producer. His unique style blends digital and analog elements, often incorporating a wide array of instruments and vocals into his compositions. With skills as a sound engineer, Dhlamini has full creative control over his music.
In addition to his performances, Dhlamini has an impressive production portfolio that includes work with renowned artists such as Lira, Lulu Dikana, and Wanda Baloy. He has also ventured into film scoring, composing for various projects including animated films and even the Zulu-dubbed version of SpongeBob SquarePants.
Attendees of the Diamond City Jazz Festival can expect a special treat from Dhlamini as he performs his album exactly as recorded for the first time in his career. With meticulous preparation and a dedicated rehearsal schedule, Dhlamini aims to present his music in its truest form to the audience.
Beyond the performances, the festival offers mentorship sessions that allow emerging artists to engage with industry veterans, refine their skills, and gain a deeper understanding of jazz’s cultural significance. This initiative underscores the festival’s commitment to nurturing new talent, honoring musical heritage, and bridging generations through the universal language of jazz.
The Diamond City Jazz Festival is scheduled to take place at Bojanala Waterfront in Botswana on 29 March 2025. Tickets are available online for those looking to experience a night of world-class jazz performances and celebrate the rich tapestry of musical talent on display.
