Yet another successful Mbombela Jazz Festival, founded and hosted by Mpumalanga’s renowned Stix Dumisa, brought local jazz musicians together for a night of live entertainment at the civic centre on Saturday, August 24.

Dumisa said the turnout at this year’s event, being the fourth instalment, exceeded his wildest expectations. “It showed me that people love jazz music, especially because the youth flocked to the festival – most young people think jazz is for old people. Even though the ticket sales before the event were dismal, I was surprised by how many people eventually came and bought tickets at the door. I am now encouraged to continue with the festival and am calling all local jazz artists to become part of it. I want to ask my supporters to buy tickets as early as possible, as it makes life easier in terms of organising the event. I nearly cancelled the show thinking that people would not show up,” he said.

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Dumisa specially played a song by the late Jonas Gwangwa, who he said was his inspiration to take up jazz.

He said the highlight was sharing the stage with artists such as Reshen Nkala, Selby Mhlongo, Gugu Mndebele, Bra Bush, Wanda Zonke, Sibusiso Mash, Soul Ngwane, Endle and Nomhle, who all played their hearts out to create an electrifying atmosphere and unforgettable event.