South African vocal group Mahotella Queens will launch a new concert series, Buyel’ Ekhaya (“Coming Home”), with a performance at Untitled Basement in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on 8 August.
The series, presented in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture through its Mzansi Golden Economy initiative, marks the group’s return to local stages after years of international touring and the release of ‘Buya Buya: Come Back’, their first studio album in two decades.
A Homecoming for Mbaqanga Icons
Formed in 1964, the Mahotella Queens are among South Africa’s most celebrated mbaqanga acts, having performed at events including Glastonbury, WOMAD, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Nelson Mandela’s 70th Birthday Tribute Concert in London. The current line-up is led by founding member Hilda Tloubatla, 84, alongside Amanda Nkosi and Nqobile Njapha.
“We are what we are because of South Africa,” Tloubatla said. “The Mahotella Queens wouldn’t be touring the world if it wasn’t for our own people giving us their support since 1964. So, now is our time to return the favour and give the fans the real mbaqanga they have been missing for so long.”
The Buyel’ Ekhaya series is intended to reconnect the group with South African audiences after decades of performing internationally.
Opening Night Details
The first concert forms part of the “HER” live music programme at Untitled Basement. Tloubatla said the setlist will feature the group’s most requested songs, including “Kazet”, “Melodi Ya Lla”, “Lilizela Mlilizeli”, “Umuntu Ngumuntu” and “Hamba Phepha Lami”.
“It is the grace of God. Look at me, I’m 84 years and I’m still on stage doing the same choreography with the same energy. That is God’s power, it’s not me. When people come to the show, they will be shocked to see me jiving like I’m still only 20,” Tloubatla said.
The concert begins at 6pm on 8 August at Untitled Basement, 7 Reserve Street, Braamfontein. Tickets are available through Quicket.
