Jazz music with a twist gets a SAMA nomination
“I’d rather make music with the people in the category than compete with them. Music is such a beautiful way of bringing people together,” added Mandla.
Jazz is taking an interesting direction in this country, with more youth showing interest in it. Artists such as Amandla Freedom Ensemble have rejuvenated the love of the genre and made it even more interesting and appealing to their peers.
The band has been nominated at the South African Music Awards for best jazz album for their album titled Bhekisiwe, and they don’t take the nomination lightly.
“The acknowledgement on its own is humbling. For youngsters like us, who came together for the love of the genre and just good music, the nomination is a huge deal.
“We are open-minded about the win, if we get it, thank you God, and if we don’t, we were still nominated,” said Mandla Mlangeni from Amandla Freedom Ensemble.
This being their first album and receiving such recognition, Mandla says the nomination is not a competition to them, but an opportunity to showcase their capabilities.
“I’d rather make music with the people in the category than compete with them. Music is such a beautiful way of bringing people together,” added Mandla.
Other nominees in the category include Nduduzo Makhathini, Benjamin Jephta Quintet and Bokani Dyer.
