Writer: Mamello Pule | Photographs: Supplied
In a world consumed by digital distractions and fleeting connections, the Jazzish Listening Sessions: Sip and Paint Edition offered a soulful reprieve—an opportunity to reconnect with the essence of Africanness through music, poetry, and creative expression. Held on 7th December 2024, in the serene gardens of Casa Mia Country Estate in Cullinan, this event emerged as a testament to the spirit of Sankofa—a poignant call to honour our history while embracing the possibilities of the future.
The natural setting of the gardens enhanced the event’s mandate for holistic healing and the power of nature, creating an environment where attendees could pause, breathe, and immerse themselves fully in the celebration. Against this backdrop of tranquillity and beauty, the day unfolded as a harmonious blend of sound, art, and community.
At the heart of this extraordinary gathering was MarumoFemme, the visionary sister duo; Mamello and Kopano Pule. Widely celebrated as DJs and cultural curators, they transcended expectations, creating a space that was both nostalgic and progressive. Their commitment to bridging the historical depth of jazz with its contemporary iterations shone throughout the day, inviting attendees of all generations to reflect, listen, and immerse themselves.
A Harmonious Fusion of Art, Music, and Heritage
The event began with MarumoFemme setting the tone for the day with a captivating opening set. Their music took us everywhere—blending diverse sounds from timeless classics to contemporary rhythms. It wasn’t jazz as we know it, but rather sounds of jazz—hence Jazzish—a reflection of the genre’s evolution and its ability to inspire across boundaries. Their dynamic set created an electric atmosphere, effortlessly preparing the audience for the immersive experience to come.
The live music continued with an electrifying performance from the Black Labone House Band, whose artistry honoured jazz’s spiritual roots while infusing modern interpretations. Having grown from Pretoria’s renowned open-mic sessions, Black Labone anchored the day with creative authenticity and soul-stirring energy.
The stage was then graced by Brenda Sisane, the revered jazz broadcaster whose set transported us on an unforgettable journey across the African diaspora. With her impeccable curation of jazz and world music, Brenda blended rhythms and melodies that paid homage to Africa’s rich musical diversity. Her selections reminded us of jazz’s global evolution and its roots in the shared heartbeat of African heritage.
The evening then shifted to the poignant words of Makhafula Vilakazi, whose poetry cut through the surface, confronting history and contemporary realities with unfiltered emotion. His delivery was as captivating as it was challenging, leaving attendees in a collective moment of reflection. Silence turned into introspection, as his words forged a deep connection with the audience.
To close off the evening, DJ Bubbles delivered an electrifying vinyl set that perfectly encapsulated the event’s theme of Africanness and Black consciousness. His funky, jazzy selections explored the essence of Black music, rooted in pride, resistance, and celebration. DJ Bubbles showcased his spectacular collection, weaving together a sonic tapestry that took us back in time while keeping the dancefloor alive with energy.
More Than an Event: A Movement Reimagined
The Jazzish Listening Sessions were more than just a gathering—they embodied a movement. In a time when art risks commercial dilution, this initiative stood proudly as a beacon of authenticity and cultural preservation. For many, the day was a cathartic return to community, an experience that bridged generational divides and celebrated shared narratives.
By blending music, art, and dialogue, MarumoFemme created a space where tradition met modernity, and Africanness was celebrated in its full spectrum. Young attendees rediscovered their roots, while older generations witnessed a reimagining of culture—dynamic yet deeply familiar.
Reflections on Sankofa: Looking Back to Move Forward
The significance of Sankofa resonated throughout the day. It was a chance to look back with reverence—to listen to the sounds of jazz, to share in poetry’s wisdom, and to express oneself through paint and conversation. Yet it was equally about looking forward. By providing emerging artists and creators with a platform, the event ensured that African heritage continues to evolve and inspire, maintaining its place as a transformative force.
MarumoFemme’s philosophy— “We are what we listen to”—echoed powerfully, reminding us that our choices in art and music shape not only our present but our collective future.
A Lasting Impact
As the sun set over Casa Mia Country Estate, it was clear that Jazzish Listening Sessions had left an indelible mark. From MarumoFemme’s genre-defying opening set, Brenda Sisane’s soulful journey across Africa, Makhafula Vilakazi’s powerful truths, to DJ Bubbles’ vibrant vinyl celebration, the event brought together sound, art, and spirit in beautiful harmony.
It was a day of connection, reflection, and celebration—a reminder that through art, music, and storytelling, we can honour who we are and imagine who we might become.
In the words of MarumoFemme, it was “a celebration of Africanness, one brushstroke, one note, and one connection at a time.”
