Nakhane to headline Sounds from Africa concert

The alternative and indie musician will be joined by Namibian folk musician Elemotho. The free concert is produced by Cultural Connections Africa in partnership with Brad Holmes (Bassline Live, South Africa) and Mushroom Productions (South Africa), among other partners. It will be hosted by WOMAD UK.

The series offers a diverse and culturally rich array of musical stylings and genres from across 17 African countries, including prominent musicians such as Vusi Mahlasela (South Africa) and Mokoomba (Zimbabwe), who are combined with emerging artists.

The show seeks to promote economic and social development across the continent and all donations will go directly to the featured artists.

“The concert is part of a continued effort to celebrate diversity, amplify historically marginalised voices, and promote professional development, mentorship, education and the diaspora of African music around the globe,” the co-founder of the network and director of booking agency Music Works International, Katherine McVicker, said.

The series is expected to continue beyond the COVID-19 pandemic as a form of cultural exchange.

“Virtual streaming performances not only benefit the audience, it develops careers by showcasing artists to new markets without burdensome travel costs, visas, or all the expenses that makes it impossible for developing artists to gain recognition beyond their home country borders,” Texx and the City wrote.

The first show kicked off with Mokoomba on 22 June and the other featured artists in the upcoming instalments are Yugen Blakrok (South Africa) and Lize Ehlers (Namibia) on 13 July, as well as Paulo Flores (Angola) and A’mosi Just a Label (Angola) on 27 July.

The second instalment of the Sounds from Africa concert will be livestreamed on SkyRoom Live from 8pm CAT.