Bongeziwe Mabandla: the soulful performer set to shine at CTIJF

The enchanting rhythms and rich sounds of jazz are set to illuminate the Manenberg stage tonight as renowned South African artist Bongeziwe Mabandla takes to the spotlight at the iconic Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). 

With a performance scheduled for 11:15pm, Mabandla embodies the essence of the African soul and aims to deliver an electrifying experience that resonates with the audience on every level.

In an interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Mabandla shared his musical journey, inspirations, and excitement about being part of this famed festival now in its 22nd year. When asked about his musical influences, the talented singer revealed, “My musical influences are so broad but mainly South African. Thandiswa Mazwai, Simphiwe Dana and folk lord Tracy Chapman have had a profound impact on me. I also draw from the traditional maskandi sounds of Jabu Khanyile and Busi Mhlongo, and more recently, artists like Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, Solange, and Blood Orange.”

For Mabandla, music has always been an innate passion, a calling that’s felt like destiny.

“I always loved singing; from a very early age, I was always playing make-believe concerts, singing in the mirror, and accepting my awards. Music comes from a natural place, from my soul,” he reflected. This soulful drive is echoed in his admiration for jazz, which he discovered through the legendary Nina Simone, whose powerful use of music as a platform for social justice continues to inspire him. “Nina Simone is one of the best musicians and one that I find so interesting. Her music was a voice for fighting for equality, and she remains a personal inspiration,” he noted.

As he gazes upon the South African jazz scene, Mabandla is filled with pride, crediting its depth and wealth of talent. He remarks, “South African jazz is very rich and has originated great talents over the years, like Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba, whose music remains timeless." 

Mabandla expressed his exhilaration about participating in this year’s CTIJF line-up, which features artists he deeply admires. “Many of the artists on the line-up are those I have followed and admired. I'm particularly excited to see Thandiswa’s show,” he shared, adding, “It’s amazing to have Black Coffee headline this year, as he has advanced South African music and culture on a global scale.” To him, the festival is not just an event but a milestone - fulfilling a dream he has cherished for years.

When he thinks of jazz, Mabandla describes it as a form of expression. “For me, jazz is about expression and finding ways to convey emotions. The improvisation aspect is something I adore; no one knows where a song can go, and that's the beauty of it.” This perspective enriches his appreciation for live performances, where, as he puts it, “You see the sweat and effort, and the profound connection with the audience makes it special.”

As he gears up for his performance, Mabandla is also excited to tease his upcoming projects. He confides, “I am currently working on my fifth album, which explores my life journey and how things have unfolded. It’s something I’m already quite proud of.”

Looking ahead to 2025, he envisions a year of travel, cultural experiences, and continued artistic evolution: “I'm in a transitional stage, and while it's humbling, it's also an exciting phase. I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.”