Sho Majozi set to bring down the house at Buyel’Ekhaya

Celebrated xiTsonga rapper Sho Majozi will be the headline act  at the Buyel’Ekhaya Pan African Music Festival at Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium  on December 15.

The rapper, who has recently gained global recognition for her hit single John Cena, said being booked for the festival was “a big one” for her.

The vibrant performer is part of a star-studded line-up that includes Zonke, Vusi Mahlasela, Busiswa, Kwesta, Heavy K, Nathi, Yanga, Kabza de Small, The Jaziel Brothers and Bucie Smith.

“This festival is a big one for me. I am so proud to be a part of the artist line-up. We will have to give the performance of a lifetime. I have changed up my melodies and flows while still staying authentic to my sound and elevating it further, so the people of the Eastern Cape can expect a memorable show,” she said.

Following the release of her single John Cena, the WWE wrestler after which the song is named took to social media to promote the song and speak about Majozi’s talent.

Soon afterwards, Sho Majozi appeared on the Kelly Clarkson show where the wrestler surprised her with an appearance. The song was also played on the Ellen Degeneres Show.

“My plan is to keep doing me and having fun while doing it. The success of John Cena has got me so far and it will take me everywhere I need to go,” she said.

Last month, the Buyel’Ekhaya Artist Development Programme auditioned hundreds of up-and-coming musicians to find a star who will perform at the festival’s development stage.

Singer Nathi Mankayi, who was in attendance at the workshop with jazz maestro Nduduzo Makhathini, told the hundreds of budding musicians about his journey in the SA music industry.

Mankayi shared his personal challenges and struggles, while encouraging the musicians to stay true to their craft.

The development stage has featured the likes of Mobi Dixon, Msaki and Mankayi.

Buyel’Ekhaya will also feature a fashion show by Buyel’Ekhaya Fashion Development programme students who have been mentored by renowned SA fashion designer Palesa Mokubung, of the Mantsho fashion brand.

The emerging designers will produce garments to be showcased at the fourth annual Buyel’Ekhaya Fashion Show to be held on December 13 at the Hemingways Mall.

Creator and producer of the festival, Nomahlubi Mazwai of Mazwai communications, said Buyel’Ekhaya was a flagship cultural event in the Eastern Cape.

“Buyel’Ekhaya was established in 2009 in East London with a simple vision: to turn the Eastern Cape into the cultural mecca of SA. Each year the country’s finest kick off the holiday season festivities with their display of excellence on stage, and at the music and fashion workshops and fashion show beforehand.

“Song, dance and fashion are part of our vision to give full expression to the tenets of culture that form a central part of the African lifestyle,” said Mazwai.

gugup@dispatch.co.za