South African music royalty Thandiswa Mazwai transformed Carnival City’s Big Top Arena into a haven for black women on Saturday night. The energy crackled as fans, her devoted “core” as she calls them, packed the venue to celebrate the release of her powerful fifth studio album, “Sankofa.”
Mazwai’s music resonates deeply with black women, offering a space to confront past traumas and celebrate resilience. Before the concert even began, the tone was set. Mazwai’s sister, poet Ntsiki Mazwai, warmed the crowd with her words, followed by a blessing from Xhosa traditional healers.
The concert itself was an electrifying performance lasting nearly three hours. Mazwai poured her heart out on stage, sharing a personal story about a past trauma before performing her latest single, “Kulungile.” The raw vulnerability resonated with the audience, creating a powerful connection.
This wasn’t just a concert; it was a movement. Mazwai’s music is deeply rooted in her heritage. She incorporated traditional Xhosa instruments like the umgubhe and uhadi, along with West African influences from Senegal, symbolically bridging the gap created by the transatlantic slave trade.
The deep connection to her roots is a recurring theme in Mazwai’s work. She has spoken openly about the profound impact of losing her mother, Belede, at the young age of 16. This loss continues to fuel her passion and creativity, as she strives to create music that celebrates her African identity and envisions a brighter future for the continent.
