The Big Five

Five influential artists, each leaving their own mark on African music, are brought into the spotlight: Miriam Makeba, Brenda Fassie, Bushi Mlongo, Hugh Masekela and the duo Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya.

Miriam Makeba inimitably, brought the music of South Africa to the front of the international music arena. Pata Pata, Malaika, The Click Song, the list of hits is endless. But in addition to Mama Africa, several other iconic South African heavyweights have left their stamp on the cultural life. Brenda Fassie was one of those artists, with hits like Kuyoze Kuyovalwa and the emotional Too Late For Mama. Even after her breakthrough as an artist, she continued to live in the townships. Bushi Mlongo wrote songs primarily about daily life in Soweto and was known for always performing barefoot. Her often sharp lyrics led to an exile from her homeland, part of which she spent in the Netherlands. Hugh Masekela also spent a large portion of his life in exile, but of course, he is best known for a number of impressive hits, including Stimela (Coal Train), Don’t Go Lose It Baby and Bring Him Back Home. Last but not least, the duo Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya, with immortal songs like Nomalanga and Not Yet Uhuru.

With their boundless energy and musicality, The African Mamas turn every performance into a celebration. A musical experience that will stay with you for a long time.