SA: Makhathini, Ntuli, Elling to share stage at jazz show

Founded last year, the IJE is a one-night event that features leading international and South African jazz musicians. The inaugural edition played host to well-known American jazz band Spyro Gyra and guitarist Lee Ritenour.

IJE management expressed confidence in this year’s concert. “The first IJE, held in March last year, offered something that no other jazz event in South Africa caters for – entertainment for the pure jazz lover,” IJE president and CEO Sindile Xulu said.

“This, along with a luxurious hospitality experience that combines music, food, and travel, is what makes IJE so unique, and sets us apart. Our second extravaganza will be even more memorable than the first and as a result seats are already selling out fast.”

Makhathini, who is returning to the IJE for the second time, is a SAMA-nominated pianist who has toured and recorded with local artists such as Busi Mhlongo, Zim Ngqawana, Feya Faku, Jimmy Dludlu and Herbie Tsoaeli.

“I am honoured to be returning to the IJE stage for a second year, as it is an event that puts jazz artistry at the forefront,” Makhathini said. “For this year’s performance, I will be focusing on my umbrella project that I call iKhambi, which celebrates blackness through our various modes of healing through music.

“The IJE is also a wonderful platform to highlight my home province, KZN (KwaZulu-Natal) and what it has to offer in terms of cultures, traditions, food and music.”

Pianist and singer Ntuli comes from a musical lineage and is the niece of guitarist, pianist and vocalist Selby Ntuli. Her debut album The Offering earned her recognition that saw her make notable collaborations with Thandiswa Mazwai, Neo Muyanga, Steve Dyer, QB Smith, Marcus Wyatt, The Brother Moves On, Sir LSG, Bheki Khoza and Siya Makuzeni.

Elling is a 2010 Grammy-winning musician who is expected to use his singing prowess to wow the IJE crowd. He has collaborated with pianist, composer and arranger Laurence Hobgood, leading a quartet that regularly tours the world. Elling is a 14-time winner of the Down Beat Critics Poll. He has also been named singer of the year by the Jazz Journalists Association on numerous occasions and his ten albums have all been nominated for a Grammy.

Apart from providing entertainment, the IJE is also expected to serve as a catalyst for coastal city’s economy. “The IJE gives us an opportunity to showcase more of Durban and also accelerates our economic growth and local employment,” Durban mayor Zandile Gumede said. “We are proud to host this event for the second year running.”

IJE tickets are available through Computicket. For hospitality and corporate packages, contact [email protected] or visit the IJE website for more information.