Latest news with #SowetoGospelChoir
IOL News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Unmissable events in Joburg: from musical collaborations to Christmas in July
Murdah Bongz also known as Mörda. Bassline Live presents 'History of House' with Mörda and the Soweto Gospel Choir Two musical powerhouses are coming together for a musical spectacle in Joburg this weekend. This concert will see a collaboration between the three-time Grammy Award-winner, the Soweto Gospel Choir's 'History of House', as well as the Grammy-nominated Mörda, whose real name is Bongani Mohosana. It is expected to fuse the choir's emotional depth with the 'Horns in the Sun' hitmaker's Afro-futuristic sound. Attendees are also urged to bring something to donate to the Nelson Mandela Foundation as part of Mandela Day festivities. Where: The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino. When: Friday, July 18, from 8pm.
News24
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- News24
Gospel meets house music: Mörda and Soweto Gospel Choir collaborate for History of House
Grammy-nominated DJ Bongani 'Mörda' Mohosana and three-time Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir have teamed up for a one-night show. They are preparing for an explosive performance at The Lyric Theatre in Johannesburg. During a visit to their rehearsals in Soweto, the energy in the room hinted at an electrifying show ahead. The upcoming performance promised a unique fusion of soulful gospel, cutting-edge house beats, and authentic South African musical traditions. Speaking to City Press, former Black Motion member Mohosana shared his excitement about collaborating with the renowned choir. He expressed appreciation for their openness, saying he liked that they did not expect him to change who he was. Known for his dynamic dance moves on stage, Mohosana joked that the stage needed to be strong. 'The connection has been there since the first day I met them. On day one of the rehearsals, we were still trying to figure out what we were going to do, and I did not bring my equipment, but the energy was amazing. I could tell that they were also excited and ready, so I cannot wait,' he said. The two musical forces had started rehearsing together earlier in the week and had already begun creating new music, said Mohosana. He called it an opportunity that couldn't be turned down and described the collaboration as a blessing. The DJ, who released Asante III earlier this year, revealed that this would not be the last time he worked with the choir. If all went well, they hoped to collaborate on more projects and possibly embark on an international tour together. The Horns in the Sun hitmaker explained that the collaboration made sense because he viewed his music as uplifting and positive. A naturally spiritual person, Mohosana said he avoided following trends or chasing chart-topping singles, instead opting for longevity. I speak more through music. I express my emotions through music, and I have a lot to say through music. I am a shy guy; I can't address people in public, but through music, I can. Bongani 'Mörda' Mohosana Mohosana hinted at more gospel collaborations in the future. He had already worked on several tracks with Brenden Praise Ledwaba and revealed that he had been in discussions with Joyous Celebration founder Lindelani Mkhize. When the time is right, he said, they will work together. Soweto Gospel Choir master Shimmy Jiyane told City Press they were equally excited about performing alongside Mohosana. He said the collaboration had been in the pipeline for over a month. Jiyane noted that both the choir and Mohosana believed in the value of rehearsals and refining their craft. He explained that the show would be a one-night event to test whether South African audiences were receptive to the concept. He shared that their History of House project had begun back in 2012 while touring in Australia. It was during this tour that they met Australian DJ Simon 'Groove Terminator' Lewicki, who had been looking for a choir to work with on a house music concept. READ: WATCH | Joburg meets Lagos in an AfroExchange cultural takeover 'He pitched that he wanted to have house music sung by a choir. He said he was going around checking for choirs, but he could not find what he wanted until he watched us at the Sydney Opera House. Soweto Gospel Choir is a versatile choir; we like doing things that are out of our comfort zone, so we were like, 'Let's do it,'' said Jiyane. Lewicki introduced them to various house tracks, many of which they knew through South African DJs. Jiyane said the Australian DJ eventually joined them in South Africa for rehearsals, and some songs were even translated into local languages. The world started singing those songs, added Jiyane. Their first single, Good Life, received a positive response, and all their History of House shows overseas had sold out. In 2023, the choir collaborated with South African-based German DJ and producer Ralf 'Ralf GUM' Benkert on a song called Ramasedi. He added that many DJs had since approached them for similar collaborations, showing that people were paying attention and approved of their creative direction. The choir was even considering incorporating an orchestra in future shows. Asked whether gospel fans judged them for stepping outside traditional gospel, Jiyane responded that the choir had always embraced a broad musical range. He said at the end of the day, they were artists and did not want to box themselves. The upcoming performance was also set to honour South Africa's first democratic president, the late Nelson Mandela, as it would take place on Mandela Day, which is also his birthday. Attendees were encouraged to bring donations, which would be directed to the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Presented by Road to Bassline Fest, BET and SAMPRA, History of House would take place at The Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City, Johannesburg.
Time Out
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Out and About in Johannesburg: Things to do this weekend
From rooftop sing-alongs and house-infused gospel to puppy cuddles and Christmas in July karaoke, Joburg is buzzing with heart and heat this week. Whether you're in the mood to dance, give back, or just soak up some seriously good vibes, there's a gig (or three) with your name on it. Sandton Orinoco Flavours Mexican Kitchen Cooking Class Saturday, July 19, from 10 am- 4 pm Private location in Bryanston Tickets can be purchased via WhatsApp on 0768110302. They range from R690 - R980. Do you enjoy making Mexican food? Then this event is just for you! Learn how to make Latin American cuisine. The Orinoco Flavours Mexican Kitchen is hosting a cooking class this weekend. There will be free coffee, tea, and a welcome cocktail, plus plenty of food. Johannesburg Central Later Alligator & Karaoke 4A Cause Sunday, 20 July, from 12:30 pm The Troyeville Tickets R100 Your favourite gators, Later Alligator, are taking over the rooftop at The Troyeville for a heartwarming winter jam like no other! Join them this Sunday for a live set followed by Karaoke 4 a Cause, where you can belt your heart out in the sun, sing with the band, or just soak in the good vibes — all in the name of giving back. This Christmas in July edition is all about collecting unwrapped toys or gifts for the brave kids and teens at CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation. Your entry? Just a gift, or a R100 donation if you'd prefer. Come for the music, stay for the magic, and help spread some serious joy this winter. Northern Suburbs Christmas in July Wine Walk 2025 Saturday, July 19, from 11:00 am - 05:00 pm Parkhurst 4th Avenue Tickets from R350 Experience the ultimate wine tasting event at Parkhurst 4th Avenue's Christmas in July Wine Walk. Wander along the vibrant high street, sipping on a selection of fine wines from curated stalls, explore stylish boutiques and enjoy gourmet dishes from top local restaurants. This is the perfect afternoon to indulge in great flavours, unique shopping and an awesome atmosphere. Tickets are required for wine tasting only. Everyone is welcome to join. Southern Suburbs Bassline Live: Soweto Gospel Choir x MÖRDA at The Lyric Friday, July 18, from 08:00 pm The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City Tickets from R350 Celebrate 30 years of Bassline with a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration as the Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir joins forces with Grammy-nominated MÖRDA for History of House x Vault by MÖRDA. Expect a powerful fusion of soaring gospel harmonies and Afro-futuristic house beats in a genre-blending experience that honours the past while pushing the sound of South Africa into the future. Soweto 2nd Kota Fest Saturday, 19 July, from 11:00 am Ko-Boiketlong Situations Tickets cost R150 Indulge in delicious kota (bunny chow) at one of the biggest kota festivals in Soweto. You will also receive a buddy cold drink. This event is not just about enjoying delicious food, but it is also about raising funds for people who are living with cancer. It is done in collaboration with Cancervive. There will be cancer education and awareness. East Rand Harvest Place Night Market Friday, July 18, from 04:00 pm - 10:00 pm Harvest Place Free entry Kickstart the weekend at Harvest Place Night Market. Come hungry and ready to explore a variety of flavours, while being entertained with live music. West Rand Puppy Yoga for a Purpose Saturday, July 19, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Place a pup rescue Tickets R67 Stretch, breathe, and cuddle for a cause at the Mandela Day edition of Puppy Yoga for a Purpose on Saturday, 19 July. This 60-minute session at Place a Pup Rescue blends gentle movement with puppy playtime, all in support of their BackaBuddy housing campaign. Midrand Christmas in July Fun Run/Walk Sunday,20 July from 10 am Riversands Farm Village Tickets cost R130 for adults and R20 for children under 12. Why wait until December when you can start having fun for Christmas this weekend? The Riversands Farm Village is hosting a fun-filled walk for a good cause. The event is in support of Friends of Free Wildlife, an organisation that cares for indigenous animals. Because Christmas is all about giving love and gifts, participants will not go home empty-handed. They will receive a medal and a Secret Santa gift. Heading to Cape Town for the weekend? Check out what's happening in the Mother City. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg 🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg
The Citizen
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘I want people to dance, to feel free': Mörda Bongz ahead of his Mandela Day performance with Soweto Gospel Choir
Mörda Bongz says he wants to give people what they seem to yearn for when requesting gospel ditties at groove. Mörda Bongz will share the stage with the Soweto Gospel Choir on Mandela Day. Picture: murdahbongz/Instagram South Africans love a Gospel song at groove. In a one-off collaboration with the Soweto Gospel Choir, dance music producer Mörda Bongz says he wants to give people what they seem to yearn for when requesting gospel ditties at groove. 'I want this music to bring peace and joy. I want people to dance, to feel free,' said Mörda, whose real name is Bongani Mohosana. On Mandela Day, the former half of the duo Black Motion will take to the stage at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City in Johannesburg to perform with the renowned choir in the Bassline Fest Presents show titled 'History of House'. The concert, presented by the South African Music Performance Rights Association (Sampra), is expected to be a soulful and energetic fusion of Afro house, Amapiano, gospel, and timeless house classics. 'We can't wait to showcase our take on these evergreen house classics, especially doing this on stage with Mörda for the first time,' shared the Soweto Gospel Choir's Shimmy Jiyane. ALSO READ: 'We wish every day that your dad was still here': DJ Zinhle and Mörda celebrate Kairo Forbes' birthday A collaborative effort About a year ago the Soweto Gospel Choir released their Dance-inspired album History of House and they will perform it in front of South African audiences for the first time at the upcoming show. The ensemble performed the album earlier this year in their three month tour of Australasia where they performed in cities like Perth and Auckland. The History of House Concert is a collaborative effort between Bassline, broadcaster BET, and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, as it'll be hosted on Mandela Day. As part of the celebration, attendees are encouraged to support the 'It's in Your Hands' campaign, where they can bring a blanket to donate at the event. 'With sponsorship from Sampra, new partnerships with BET, and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, we're committed to supporting local artists and giving back to the community while showcasing our rich musical heritage,' said founder of Bassline Live, Brad Holmes. NOW READ: A Zulu in New York: Maskandi artist Khuzani Mpungose enjoys time in the US [PICS]
TimesLIVE
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Mörda teams up with internationally acclaimed Soweto Gospel Choir
Mörda and the Soweto Gospel Choir are to join forces for the History of House show on Mandela Day. The Road to Bassline Fest will present History of House as a genre-defying live show headlined by Afrohouse maestro Mörda and the globally acclaimed Soweto Gospel Choir. Taking place on July 18 at The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City, this one-night only event promises a celebration of South African sound, soul and storytelling. The show will see the Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir infuse classic house anthems such as Silence and Ride Like the Wind with their trademark harmonies and a uniquely local flavour, while Mörda, formerly of Black Motion, brings the heat with hits from his Asante trilogy, including the powerful single Glory. Speaking to TshisaLIVE, Mörda said he is looking forward to the experience. 'I want people to dance, to feel free.' 'We can't wait to showcase our take on these evergreen house classics,' said Shimmy Jiyane of the choir. Opening the show is rising star Brandon Aura, fresh from wowing crowds at Fête de la Musique, who will deliver his blend of folk-pop with an African twist. The event is supported by Sampra, BET and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, with a call to action for attendees to support the 'It's In Your Hands' campaign by donating blankets or contributing during ticket purchases.
