In Celebration of my Birthmonth, the Herbie Tsoaeli Afrikan Time Quartet will feature the Legendary Voices of Faith Kekana, Stella Khumalo and Zamo Mbutho. At Nikis!
This is a continuation of Afrikan Time honouring South African legends in many different forms in our located spaces and areas of spheres and atmospheres. All these voices have been a force of our liberation and freedom dating back to earlier days, as they played such a big role in preserving our sounds and values, with their musical and historical backgrounds speaking volumes on records produced on the continent and the rest of the world.
Faith Kekana first entered the music scene in the 1980s. She released her debut album, Areyeng, in 2014, which showcases her versatile musical prowess. She was the founder member of the girl trio Shadii together with the late Anneline Malebo and Tshidi Leloka. Shadii enjoyed great acclaim and soon became the supporting act to Bayete. In the early 1990s, Faith became the supporting singer for Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya, and the late Hugh Masekela, Jonas Gwangwa, and Miriam Makeba.
She later appeared in the live concerts and studio recordings of these great legends. Miriam Makeba has travelled extensively with her. They worked together on the Tribute to the late Dolly Rathebe. The well-travelled songbird boasts credits on many album recordings. She is also featured in the late Moses Moleleka, Vusi Mahlasela and Victor Ntoni albums, to name a few.
Stella Khumalo-Zulu is a singer, backing vocalist, and vocal arranger/harmonies. She has been in the music business since the early '80s, working on recordings and performances with a group named “JAWS.” She then went on to work with the likes of Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Themba Mkhize, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Lucky Dube, Stimela, Letta Mbulu, and Caiphus Semenya. She is featured in movie soundtracks, including Ushaka, Power of One, The Lion King, and Asinamali. Internationally, she recorded with Simply Red, Stef Bos, and Cyndi Lauper. She coordinated voices and recorded music arranged by Caiphus Semenya and Alex Heffes for the film Long Walk to Freedom, directed by Anant Singh. She has been on international tours, paying tribute to Miriam Makeba with Angelique Kidjo, Vusi Mahlasela, Baba Mal, and other African stars. The latest was at New York City's Carnegie Hall.
Zamo Mbutho is a celebrated for his mastery of a cappella and harmony, earning him the title “King of A Capella”. One of the defining relationships in Zamo’s career was his longstanding role as the backing vocalist for the legendary Miriam Makeba. His songwriting talent contributed to Makeba’s success, with his song “Masakhane” becoming a celebrated hit in her repertoire. Zamo has toured internationally, bringing South African music to audiences around the world. He has worked extensively with renowned producer Ian Osrin, creating timeless pieces that showcase his talent for vocal harmony. Recently, his rendition of “Asimbonanga” was featured in the Netflix film Silverton Siege, introducing his artistry to a new generation of listeners. Zamo’s commitment to a cappella led him to establish his own group, Amarayoni, where he explores the depth and beauty of vocal music.
Looking forward to seeing you Beautiful People in Your Numbers!!