UKZN staffer and vocalist, Ms Thulile Zama, recently performed A Tribute to Mama Africa in KwaMashu, Durban, in association with Concert SA, iSupport Music Business.

Held at the Artizen Restaurant and Lounge, Zama was accompanied by Rebakah Doty on drums, David Smith on keyboard and Sibusiso Mkhonza on bass. Ulozolo Dancers from KwaMashu also featured in the performance. The performance was part of the Concerts SA Venue Circuit which aims to foster a love and support for live music in communities, as well as anchor small and medium sized venues in urban and rural Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape.

The career of musical legend Miriam Makeba influenced Zama and her band members to such an extent that they found it fitting to do a tribute in honour of ‘Mama Africa’ as she was affectionally known the world over.

The band performed songs from different eras of Makeba’s illustrious career, including favourites like Pata Pata and the Click Song as well as ballads such as Promise and other heart wrenching offerings she penned while in exile.

‘Mama Africa was very influential, musically and politically, throughout Africa and we felt she should be remembered and celebrated,’ said Zama. ‘Makeba was a mother to many musicians and non-musicians. She played a huge role during the apartheid era. She wrote and sang many struggle songs that sent a message abroad and within the country. Her songs, such as In the Jungle, Khawuleza and Ibhabhalazi addressed issues that South Africa was facing in those difficult times,’ said Zama.

A Tribute to Mama Africa was also performed at venues across South Africa, including Pretoria, Hammarsdale, Kloof and Pietermaritzburg.