Latest news with #RedBullSymphonic
The Citizen
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Rorisang Sechele on her participation at this year's Symphomic and being part of Kids Love Jazz
Following her appearance at Red Bull Symphonic, Rorisang Sechele will perform at this weekend's Joburg Kids Love Jazz concert. Rorisang Sechele was the Vocal Music Director at this year's Redbull symphonic. Picture: Rorisang Sechele/Facebook Singer Rorisang Sechele was involved in the recent Red Bull Symphonic for a second year, and this year's edition came with more responsibility as she was the Vocal Music Director. 'That came with new responsibilities such as arranging the vocal parts for the choir, selecting the choir members, coordinating movements, and ensuring everything came together cohesively,' Sechele tells The Citizen. This year's Red Bull Symphonic was hosted at The Teatro, Montecasino for three days. 'It was a fulfilling challenge and added a whole new dimension to my involvement in the Symphonic.' ALSO READ: Kelvin Momo releases album amid speculation about his involvement at this year's Redbull Symphonic Rorisang's role at the symphonic Last year's edition of the symphonic featured Kabza De Small and Ofentse Pitse as the leads. This year, Kelvin Momo and music director and conductor Adam Howard were the stars of the show. 'This year felt quite different in terms of preparation and my role,' shares Sechele adding that the rehearsal process was much more seamless and efficient, compared to the previous year. 'We didn't spend long hours or several weeks rehearsing like before. I think that's largely because the music arrangements were well-prepared and easier to grasp in a shorter time.' She says preparation began about two months before the show, when she and Howard first started discussing the vision for the choir. 'He shared his ideas for certain songs but also gave me the creative freedom to run wild, which really allowed me to shape the vocal elements in a meaningful way,' Sechele says of her creative freedom. She arranged vocals for 12 songs over the course of about five consecutive days. 'I also created detailed vocal guides and count-ins, which allowed the choir to rehearse and familiarize themselves with the material even before we came together for final rehearsals. That preparation really contributed to how smoothly everything came together in the end.' ALSO READ: Adam Howard: SA's adopted son who fell in love with the music and never looked back Rorisang and The Seed Sechele is a recording artist in her own right after the release of her debut project this year, a seven-track album titled The Seed. Her music is tranquil and the perfect accompaniment to long drives and sunsets. 'The reception has honestly exceeded my expectations. It's incredibly heart-warming to hear people say the album brightens their day or that they can't start their morning without a dose of The Seed,' says Sechele. She shares that one of the biggest highlights since the album was released in February was receiving recognition from China Moses, daughter of three-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Dee Dee Bridgewater. 'She featured The Seed on her segment on one of the world's leading jazz radio stations, which was a huge honour. The album was also nominated for Best Jazz Act at the Urban Music Awards, which is another milestone I'm deeply grateful for.' The South African State Theatre supported The Seed through the Incubator Programme, which meant Sechele had to be selective about what she included on the album. 'I also had to work within specific deadlines, which meant being strategic about what was included in The Seed.' However, since the song was her first official release, she says it has played a significant part in her musical journey. The word 'tsoga' means to rise or wake up. 'Tsoga carries a message that I felt needed to be heard first. Even though it doesn't sonically align with the rest of the album, its purpose was to awaken, to call people to rise.' ALSO READ: Thandiswa Mazwai says she would've accepted invite to national dialogue had Ramaphosa sent it Kids Love Jazz Sechele is on the line-up for this year's edition of Joburg jazz concert, Kids Love Jazz. The concert epitomises South Africa's vibrant jazz scene, which is so alive that young people, who aren't often viewed as its target market, gravitate towards the genre. 'What makes this especially meaningful is seeing young people embrace jazz and make it their own. As a young artist myself, it's beautiful to witness how jazz is being reimagined and celebrated by a new generation,' says Sechele. 'We often hear that jazz is 'old people's music,' but here we are, vibrant, youthful, and redefining what jazz looks and sounds like today.' NOW READ: WATCH: Kelvin Momo on 'private school' Amapiano and Red Bull Symphonic hype
The Citizen
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Amapiano star Thatohatsi loses voice due to 'unexpected' illness
Thatohatsi was scheduled to perform at the Red Bull Symphonic this past weekend. Vocalist Thato Raphadi, popularly known as Thatohatsi, has issued an apology after missing several performances this past weekend. Among other gigs, the Uhambo hitmaker was scheduled to perform at the sold-out Red Bull Symphonic on Saturday, 7 June. However, Thatohatsi said she was unable to attend due to an unexpected illness that left her without her voice. 'I, Thatohatsi, regret to inform you that due to an unexpected illness, I have temporarily lost my voice and was unable to perform at the Red Bull Symphonic, Market@theSheds, and Drama Hatfield PTA, scheduled for 7 June,' she wrote in a statement. The singer added that she is committed to finding a resolution once she has recovered. 'I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to the event organisers, their sponsors, and my supporters. I truly appreciate your understanding during this challenging time. I am committed to rescheduling or working with the promoters to find a suitable alternative once I have recovered. I can't wait to see you all soon.' ALSO READ: Kelvin Momo releases album amid speculation about his involvement at this year's Redbull Symphonic Thatohatsi: The Amapiano rising star Thatohatsi shot to fame with her hit single Xolele, which went viral on TikTok. She is a rising Amapiano music star, hailing from Payneville, in Springs, south of Johannesburg. Thatohatsi has been featured by some of the biggest names in the Amapiano scene, including Kelvin Momo, DJ Maphorisa, Kabza De Small, Mellow, and Sleazy. Her strong musical foundation was built through singing in her church choir and taking part in community performing arts initiatives. NOW READ: 'Joy in Greece': Inside Katlego Maboe's Greek getaway [PICS]
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Kelvin Momo captivates audiences at the Red Bull Symphonic with romance and amapiano magic
Kelvin Momo delivered an unforgettable Red Bull Symphonic show with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. Picture: Mpumelelo Macu / Red Bull Content Pool Image: Mpumelelo Macu / Red Bull Content Pool Kelvin Momo's fans were left more than fulfilled at the Red Bull Symphonic with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. In its second year, the Red Bull Symphonic was held over three days at the Montecasino Teatro, a bump from last year. Real name Thato Kelvin Ledwaba, music producer and artist Kelvin Momo's top-charting catalogue took center stage as it was brought to life through music conductor Howard and the electrifying Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. With the backing of Red Bull, who cut no corners when it comes to delivering top-notch production, attendees were left mesmerized. Kelvin Momo and Adam Howard are seen during the Red Bull Symphonic in Johannesburg, South Africa. Image: Craig Kolesky / Red Bull Content Pool Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Kelvin Momo made a commanding entrance with Howard, with the two of them even embracing each other, a clear sign of a strong bond formed. For his big night, Kelvin Momo was the life of the party, dancing and vibing along to the music and with the crowd. On night one, Kelvin Momo even got emotional as he performed 'Song Cry'. With seven albums under his belt and over 171 songs, choosing the 18-track set list was no small task. Kelvin Momo and Howard however managed to create one that celebrated his musical journey. Each song took attendees down memory lane, to the one they first heard the song or how it impacted them. However, the real moments came when Kelvin Momo's long-time vocal collaborator and long-time girlfriend Babalwa M (Mavuso) took to the stage. Fans were mesmerized as Kelvin Momo and Babalwa M stole the show at Red Bull Symphonic. Picture: Mpumelelo Macu / Red Bull Content Pool Image: Mpumelelo Macu / Red Bull Content Pool
IOL News
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Kelvin Momo and Adam Howard set to dazzle at the Red Bull Symphonic
Kelvin Momo will headline the 2025 edition of the genre-defying experience, accompanied by none other than Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. Picture: Timothy Bernard/Independent Media Image: Timothy Bernard/Independent Media The Red Bull Symphonic: Kelvin Momo with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra is days away and excitement and nerves are in the air. Red Bull Symphonic organisers have not announced any changes to the big day and Kelvin Momo has been spotted attending rehearsals. Fans are excited to hear Kelvin Momo's music reimagined with a live orchestra but some are sitting on the edge of their seats in anticipation to see whether the hit producer will make his performance. Questions regarding the artist's dependability are increasing among his fanbase, particularly concerning his attendance at the Red Bull Symphonic event. In videos shared online, Kelvin Momo has been joining the orchestra during rehearsals with insiders confirming his attendance. This is Red Bull's second year hosting the Symphonic and South Africa and the private piano hitmaker follows in the footsteps of Kabza De Small. He'll be collaborating with Kelvin Momo, the pioneer of 'private school Amapiano.' Known for his smooth, jazz-influenced compositions, Momo's sound offers the perfect canvas for orchestral expansion. 'We've selected songs that tell a story — a journey through Kelvin's catalogue, paying homage to where he started and where he is now,' said Howard. 'His music is rich with harmony, structure, and jazz influences. My job is to enhance that with an orchestral backdrop without losing the soul of what's already there.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Howard was a part of the first symphonic and even received a standing ovation for his solo performance. 'Last year was an amazing experience. I was the musical director, did all the arrangements, and played in the orchestra. I thought I'd come down and play a solo or two, I didn't expect it to go down so well!' Howard remarks. The response from the audience was electric, with the entire auditorium erupting during his impromptu solo moments. That unexpected enthusiasm helped catapult him to the forefront of this year's show. Having played with the likes of Brothers of Peace, Kalawa Jazmee, Brenda Fassie, and more, Howard is no stranger to the limelight. But what made last year's Red Bull Symphonic with Kabza De Small unique was the way it merged classical orchestration with contemporary sounds, a fusion not commonly seen in traditional orchestras. 'There's never been a time in an orchestra where someone stands up and plays over Amapiano music,' he said, beaming. 'It was a real visual moment, two worlds colliding. 'We encouraged the orchestra to not just play the notes, but to really get into the spirit of the music.' This year, that vision takes an even bolder step forward. Howard has been tasked with curating a bespoke orchestra for the event, reimagining what a symphony orchestra can look and sound like. The Red Bull Symphonic: Kelvin Momo with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra takes place over three days June 6, 7 and 8 at The Teatro, Montecasino. IOL Entertainment
IOL News
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Thato' is here! Kelvin Momo drops new album just before Red Bull Symphonic confirmation
Kelvin Momo's highly anticipated album 'Thato' has finally arrived. Image: X The people's favourite Amapiano DJ and music producer, Kelvin Momo, released his highly anticipated album, 'Thato', on Friday, May 30. Like most of his body of work, 'Thato' is a masterful blend of Amapiano and jazz, which creates a deeply emotional and evocative sound that resonates with his fans. The opening track, titled 'Buya', features the late vocal powerhouse, Yallunder, with whom Momo has worked on previous albums. The 29-track album features an array of talented vocalists, each bringing their unique style and energy to the table. With its rich instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, the album has already won the hearts of many. This is the 'Emaphupheni' hitmaker's seventh solo studio album; it comes after 'Ntsako', which he released in December 2024. His albums are always anticipated by his fans, who stay up until midnight to experience his artistry. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Given Momo's track record of producing chart-topping hits and songs, the album is already climbing up the charts, surpassing track records that were held by his previous albums 'Ntsako', 'Sewe', 'Kurhula' and 'Amukelani'. The album's release comes at an interesting time, with speculation swirling about Momo's involvement in the upcoming Red Bull Symphonic event. The event is scheduled to take place on June 6, 7, and 8. He was announced as the headliner in April. However, before the release of 'Thato', Momo archived all mentions of the Red Bull Symphonic event from his Instagram feed, including the link to purchase tickets from his bio. This was picked up by a fan who took to X to share the news. Kelvin removed the Symphonic posts alongside the link to the event? 😭😭😭😭😭🤣 — Island gworl🏝️ (@ndzalyy_) May 28, 2025 This move has sparked rumours that he might not perform at the event as previously announced. However, all is well, as it turned out that he was just archiving posts in preparation for the release of 'Thato'. The scepticism from fans comes after the Amapiano sensation missed three gigs, citing health issues. Last week, he was booked to play at Cafe 69, Piano Hub and Makubenjalo but later released a statement explaining why he could not make it. Concerns about his reliability have been growing among his fans as they questioned if he will show up at the scheduled Red Bull Symphonic event. Rightfully so, since there have been more incidents of him missing performances he had been booked for. In May, it was reported that the 31-year-old DJ is facing a financial threat after Australian firm Ace Events filed court documents seeking the liquidation of his company, 'Kelvin Momo Productions'. The claim alleges that his company owes up to R2.8 million in refunds and damages due to his failure to perform at two scheduled shows in Australia last year.
