Xolisa Dlamini in concert

This Eastern Cape-born music lecturer and vocal coach, who has contributed to the music education of some of SA’s most prominent artists, has released her latest album titled Fire Born earlier this year. Her music can be described as vocal jazz with hints and elements of afro-soul, gospel, traditional folk and contemporary maskandi music. Dlamini, who was born in the remote village of Rode in eMaxesibeni, is regarded as a veteran in musical theatre and education in SA. She has shared her knowledge as a music lecturer at the Durban University of Technology. Dlamini describes her music as a traditional African sound that all can relate to. Her passion for music and storytelling began at a young age when she experienced visions and life-changing challenges in her life. Xolisa Dlamini, 48, has shaped the careers of internationally acclaimed Mthatha-raised artists Black Coffee, Mondli Ngcobo, Zakes Bantwini and Nduduzo Makhathini, among others. Dlamini’s former student Nduduzo Makhathini, a notable South African jazz musician, has produced her 10-track album. The seasoned musician’s three albums have received widespread national recognition and award nominations. Her first album, Times, received nominations for best contemporary album and best female composer at the South African Music Awards. Her second album, Afro Blue, was nominated for best contemporary jazz album at the Metro FM Awards in 2010. Dlamini’s band is consisting of Sanele Phakathi on keys, Sbu Zondi on drums and Lwazi Mlotshwa on bass guitar. This programme is part of a unique joint curation between the Centre Creative Arts and Centre for Jazz & Popular Music, both existing at the UKZN. All parties involved are invested in showcasing the vast pool of talent that Durban has while using the great spaces available in the city in unconventional ways. Concerts SA is a joint South African/Norwegian live music development project housed under the auspices of SAMRO and managed by IKS Cultural Consulting. Concerts SA receives financial, administrative and technical support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SAMRO and the SAMRO Foundation. Working with musicians, promoters, venue owners and audiences, and providing support to the sector through research and skills development for music professionals, the project aims to build a vibrant and viable live music circuit in southern Africa. It also seeks to develop an interest in and appreciation of live music by showcasing music performances and conducting workshops at schools.