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Johannesburg - The 14th annual Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition is set to thrill revellers at the Newtown Music Factory, formerly the Bassline, in Johannesburg’s city centre.
The line-up for South Africa’s premier music industry event, set to take place from 6 to 9 September, was announced on Thursday at Primi Piatti restaurant in Rosebank, Joburg.
This year’s theme is Rhythm of the Ancient, chosen to represent the origins of Africa’s music genres. Accordingly, it was not surprising that traditional artist and cultural historian Dizu Plaatjies, along with award-winning muso Candy “Tsamandebele” Mokwena, were chosen as the faces of the event, to loud applause by those present.
Sipho Sithole, chairperson of the conference, said the organisers’ vision for 2017 was to put emphasis on rhythms and sounds indigenous to African music, and what made these resonate even today.
Particular attention would be paid to genres such as Gqom, hip-hop, jazz, soul and, for a modern twist, Shangaan electronic beats.
“It is no coincidence that this year’s representatives of Moshito are Plaatjies, given that he founded South Africa’s internationally celebrated marimba group Amampondo, and Afro-soul artist Mokwena,” he said.
Celebs spotted in the audience included music veterans Arthur Mafokate, Tshedi Mholo and Wanda Baloyi.
“It really means a lot to me, especially as a woman, to be part of this musical movement,” Mokwena told City Press.
“I am here to represent African culture through my music and clothing.”
Mokwena also entertained the crowd with songs from her recent album Easy Come Easy Go, getting them on their feet.
It felt as if we were celebrating Africa month all over again as people ululated and sang along, while social media trended on #Moshito2017 across various platforms.
Moshito 2017 promises to be bigger and better with its now popular Opening Night Concert on 6 September in Newtown; the Afro World Concert, which takes place at Soweto Theatre on 7 September; and the free Street Festival showcasing urban beats at Newtown’s Junction Mall on 9 September.
