×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Reggae rules in Joburg

SOME major jamming in the streets will take place next month at the Reggae on the Rise festival in Newtown, Johannesburg, featuring top reggae and raga artists as well as DJs.

Headlining the March 10 festival is Jamaican raga-gospel artist Anthony B, our own highly talented but underrated Colbert Mukwevho, Nkulee Dube (the late reggae icon Lucky Dube's daughter) and Tidal Waves, one of South Africa's foremost reggae talents, who are hugely appreciated overseas.

Several top notch local DJs will also be spinning their stuff at this reggae sun-splash-type concert, which will see the streets of Newtown closed so that reggae music can take over.

The DJs include Admiral and Jahseed, Fanta Jozi, Pepe aka Bigman, Nathi B, and Black Kalamawi.

All the shows will take place in the streets next to the OST Lounge on Henry Nxumalo and Bree streets in Newtown.

The festival is significant in that it is probably the first time a number of reggae and raga artists have performed under one roof, well, in one street in South Africa.

A number of musical talents have come to South Africa over recent years, particularly American R&B artists and rock-pop musicians.

There have been sporadic performances by ragga and reggae artists such as Mutabaruka, who has come to South Africa a number of times over the years to perform, particularly at the Arts Alive Festival.

Mutabaruka became a regular feature when Urban Voices was later introduced.

There have also been regular visits by LKJ, at both the Arts Alive and Urban Voices poetry scene.

And last year controversial raga artist Sizzler, as well as Tony Rebel graced the Arts Alive stage.

Of course one can't forget UB40's tours to Mzansi - with their latest being held last year.

But, the most memorable reggae tour to South Africa must be that undertaken by Culture and Burning Spear a few years ago, who in a manner of speaking set the stage alight at the Dome.

They attracted a multiracial audience, ranging from students to those in their 50s, united by their love of this motivational music genre.

The festival is being organised by Lioness Productions SA, a reggae-dancehall events company.

"Our aim is to promote reggae-dancehall music by hosting yearly festivals, live musical experiences, as well as skill-developing workshops within the reggae community," one of the organisers, Fikile Makhalemele. said.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.