Known for classics like Burn Out and Jive Soweto, Mabuse blended nostalgia with fresh vibrancy, moving seamlessly between instruments as the crowd sang, danced, and clapped along.

Backing him was his long-standing band:

Khumo Kganyago (Guitar), Bernice Boikanyo (drums), Lloyd Toto Mbele (Keyboards), Khemani Khosa (road manager), Thami Ernest Mgcina (sound engineer), and Thembeka Tabia Khumalo (Backing Vocals) musicians who have been with him for over a decade and bring depth and gravitas to his sound. 

Together, they delivered a tight, electrifying set that reaffirmed Mabuse’s status as a towering figure in South African music. 

All the Stunning pictures are by Warren Kirkland of Sipho Mabuse at Cape Town International Jazz Festival….. Thank you 

Some snaps  below

Great to be with Khumo Kganyago, Bernice Boikanyo, Lloyd Toto Mbele, Khemani Khosa, Thami Ernest Mgcina, Thembeka Tabia Khumalo

Good to be with Jason Curtis and to see Warren Kirkland

 Fans can look forward to classics that have shaped generations, delivered with the unmistakable energy and mastery that only Hotstix can bring. 

Book now:

Seatme: https://www.seatme.co.za/tc-events/sipho-hotstix-mabuse/

Event info: https://www.facebook.com/events/876343051563155/

As former-president President Kgalema Motlanthe wrote on Sipho’s 70^th birthday:

My brother Sipho, we have come a long way together, and through your 70 year-long pilgrimage to the highest echelons of social, cultural and artistic eminence, we remember the distinguished milestones of your life and honour this as a moment for all South Africans to consider your pioneering contribution to African music and a global movement of expression. 

From the tender age of 8 years old playing drums to already becoming a professional musician by age 15, yours is a seminal career that not only spans six decades and counting but is a career that defined an industry with an oeuvre that set the tone for a golden era of music. 

The sound of Sipho “Hotstix’ Mabuse was to set the world alight with sonic vibrations that contributed to the cultural development of world music, Afro-funk, Soweto soul, township pop and contemporary sounds over the years. 

As one of the most influential multi-instrumentalists in Africa, the creative industry is fortunate to benefit from an endowment of musical genius, enlightened performances, and an unwavering commitment that Sipho “Hotstix’ Mabuse has offered to a range of young musicians over the past half-century.

 These gifts of mentorship, advice, experience, and priceless lessons, are the ingredients that create a meaningful consciousness among young people entering the arts. 

The crucial social and political role that music has played in our history cannot be taken for granted. Beyond the pleasure that music and art, in general, elicits in people, it serves an even higher purpose – that of developing the consciousness of people and improving the social system. 

At 70 years of age, Sipho “Hotstix’ Mabuse continues to play a critical role in the South African music scene with the power to build social cohesion, the ethical leadership to rear a new generation of musicians, and the virtuosity to uplift a nation through ground-shaking tunes. 

Yours is a testament to the contribution of a South African musical prodigy whose impact is burnt into the memory of a nation and whose creative passion evokes the emotions of history and the heart. 

A truly heartfelt tribute to one of South Africa’s greats.

Thirty-seven years ago, Sipho’s half-a-million-selling smash-hit single “Burn Out” changed the face and shape of Afro-pop and township jive like no other song or artist in pop music history. 

Today there are few instruments he cannot play. Flute, piano, saxophone, kalimba, alto flute, timbales and African drums all feature at some point in his repertoire, all played with the respect each deserves.  

Warm, compassionate, caring and gifted in ways even he is still learning about, this gentle giant of great original music is as vital a player today as he’s ever been. 

With an impressive catalogue anchored in Africa, all who meet, greet, and share stages with Sipho are all touched by a humility and grace that’s as rare as the talent this living legend shares with us all.

All the songs will be there, including the early Harari classics, along with all of Sipho’s many well-known hits. Grab a ticket to experience this once-in-a-lifetime show if living South African music heritage matters to you.

Notes to the editor:

A quick Google search brings up names like The Beaters, Sipho’s first band that later evolved to become Harari, one of the most successful acts to dominate the music scene of the 1970s in South Africa. They were the ultimate party band. One of South Africa’s most important musical acts, Harari, will forever hold legendary status, even after splitting in 1982. In his solo capacity, Sipho continues to create wonderfully original South African-born music.

He has also recorded and produced many legendary artists, the likes of Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ray Phiri and Sibongile Khumalo. As a regular commentator on arts and culture in the country, Sipho has also sat on the board of The National Arts Council 

Selected Career Highlights


2005 – SAMA Lifetime Achievement Award winner.
2008 – 46664 Ambassador – performing in London’s Hyde Park. 
2009 – 46664 Ambassador – performing at New York’s Radio City Music Hall.
2018 – Silver Order of Ikhamanga, for his contribution to the field of music.
2018 – Lifetime Achievement Award winner at the 13^th Annual South African Traditional Music Achievements Awards (SATMA).
2021 – Lifetime Achievement Award from GQ magazine.

Johannesburg, South Africa — On Thursday, 27 November 2025, the Untitled Basement will come alive with the unmistakable sound of a South African legend — Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse and the Hotband 

Prepare to be transported by an evening of soulful Afro-Jazz, where rhythm meets heritage and melody meets memory. From the vibrant streets of Soweto to the global stage, Hotstix has carved a legacy that transcends generations — his flute, percussion, and vocals carrying the heartbeat of a nation.

With a career spanning over five decades, Mabuse’s music continues to inspire, unite, and uplift. This intimate performance promises more than just a show — it’s a celebration of life, culture, and timeless sound. Expect velvet grooves, stories woven through song, and the magnetic presence of a true icon doing what he does best.

So grab a drink, feel the rhythm, and let Hotstix take you on a journey that will stir your soul and move your feet.

 Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, 27 November 2025
• Venue: Untitled Basement, Johannesburg
• Doors Open: 18:00
• Performance Starts: 20:00
• Tickets: R350 Early Bird | R400 via Quicket
  
  https://www.quicket.co.za/events/347414-sipho-hotstix-mabuse-live-untitled-basement/
  
  Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience 
  
  Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse — live, up close, and in full swing.
  

Pretoria, South Africa  6 December 2025 The Mayibuye iAfrika Concert returns for its 4th edition with The Rebirth of Ubuntu,  a one-night-only spectacular at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria 

Created by celebrated guitarist, composer and author Billy Monama, this four-hour showcase unites South Africa’s musical legends with a 20-piece orchestra under Grammy Award-winner Joe Arthur.
 The result: a bold fusion of heritage, artistry and contemporary sound.“The Mayibuye iAfrika Concert is not just entertainment , it’s a cultural statement,” says Monama. “It honours our past, celebrates our diversity, and looks to a more compassionate future.”

The lineup features six of the country’s most iconic voices: Elvis Blue, Simphiwe Dana, Judith Sephuma, Maleh, Langa Mavuso, and  Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, 6 December 2025

• Time: 19:30

• Venue: Opera House, South African State Theatre, Pretoria

 Tickets: R350 – R1000 (General & VIP Packages)

 Early Bird: R250 (1–30 September 2025)

 Bookings: Billy Monama’s Mayibuye iAfrika Concert – Mzansi Festival

https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Seating.aspx?itemid=1576169117  

Info: www.statetheatre.co.za

The Mayibuye iAfrika Concert is an independent cultural platform, not affiliated with any political organisation.

Proudly supported by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Brand SA, Castle Milk Stout and Joburg Theatre.

30.08.25
NIROX Sculpture Park
R540 Kromdraain Road
Krugersdorp

The BMW Art Generation will return to the NIROX Sculpture Park on 30.08.25

A festival, living archive and a gathering of minds The BMW Art Generation brings together leaders in contemporary African culture intergenerational and interdisciplinary conversations and engagements. By situating established practitioners alongside their imminent successors, it builds frameworks for discourse, collectorship, and care. As an intergenerational proposition, it asserts that the future of African art must be imagined, celebrated, and safeguarded on African soil.

Vol. III
A Tropology Between Image & Imagination

Traditionally, tropology refers to the figurative use of language – metaphor, allegory, symbolism. In the context of this third iteration of The BMW Art Generation we expand this meaning to a framework that holds the images and imaginations of contemporary practitioners from the continent in employing symbols, gestures, forms to communicate layered, often subversive meaning; simultaneously dismantling and building tropologies for reclamation.

Through this framework we navigate articulations of histories, discourses, and imaginaries, engaging with practices with artists who do not merely describe our realities but shape new languages for retelling it. This language unfolds through the image-making that exists in tension with and in service of imagination.

We reflect on the shifting, expanding terrain in which African contemporary art now moves; a space where boundaries blur between public and private, fiction and reality, local specificity and global resonance.

Asserting the image and imagination of contemporary African practitioners as not only contributors to but definers of global discourse. We look to resist the flattening gaze of the realities from the continent instead demanding a recognition of our own conceptual terms around representation and presence. Rather than reinforcing tropes, we seek out tropologies – figures of thought that move beyond an established centre and margin.
A framework bringing proposition is set up: allowing us new ways of seeing and imagining our own self authored futures.
— conceptualised by Kim Kandan

The BMW Art Generation’s Commitment to Joy

Adjacent to the discourse, the conference will be surrounded by a selection of exhibitions, live music, food, coffee and wine stalls parallel to offerings from leaders in Africa’s design and fashion sectors.

Audiences can look forward to:

– A talks programme with international headliners.
– A luxury market offering the best in African food, wine, fashion and design.
– An open-air live music amphitheatre featuring celebrated African musicians.

Make sure to follow us on Instagram at @bmwartgeneration
Follow the event with #BMWArtGeneration

GET IN TOUCH

012 880 2635
support@tixsa.co.za

OPERATING HOURS

Ticketing Support:

Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm
Saturdays: 10am – 2pm
Sundays: 10am – 1pm
Public Holidays: 10am – 1pm

The Herald celebrates 180 years: A night with legends

The Herald – the oldest running newspaper in South Africa – will mark a major milestone in May 2025.

As The Herald celebrates its remarkable 180-year legacy, we are not only reflecting on our rich history but also looking forward to the future with a commitment to making a meaningful impact in Nelson Mandela Bay.

We have decided to use this opportunity to give back to the city that has supported us throughout the last 180 years.

In honour of this milestone, we are proud to announce that funds raised through The Herald’s 180th birthday celebration will go towards supporting the incredible work of the Kolisi Foundation, specifically within their Education & Sports programme. The foundation works alongside six schools in Zwide, empowering young learners through access to quality education and sports development opportunities.

As part of our celebration, we will also pay tribute to Siya Kolisi, co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, in recognition of the pivotal role he has played—not only in our community but across the country.

His unwavering dedication to uplifting others continues to inspire and drive change where it’s needed most.

Join us for an evening filled with music and celebration featuring a few artists born and raised in the Eastern Cape – Ami Faku, J’Something and Dumza Maswana – and Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, alongside Unathi Nkayi as host. Let’s celebrate 180 years of legacy together.

Booking via Quicket

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/307592-the-herald-180th-birthday-celebration-a-night-with-the-legends/?ref=events-list#/

Picture credits: Blowfish productions

For two decades, Mahindra has made South Africa its second home, forging an authentic and meaningful partnership with its customers. With over 100,000 customers These foundations give Mahindra the confidence to embark on an exciting new chapter as it steps into its third decade in South Africa. 

This new era is about celebrating South Africa’s youthfulness, vibrancy, and cultural richness, embracing the diverse voices, traditions, and resilience that define the nation.

 The Mahindra Fusion Fest will embody this spirit, becoming a platform where music, fashion, and art come together to showcase the dynamism of the country and the brand’s vision for the future. 

At the heart of the festival are four  fusion performances , blending genres and cultures

 These performances bring together renowned artists from vastly different musical backgrounds, each creating something entirely new:

Fusion 1 – Cassper Nyovest (Hip Hop) X Zandile Mzazi (Opera) X Radio Kalahari Orkes (Afrikaans Country) 

Fusion 2 – Sjava (Afro Pop) X Matthew Mole (Indie Pop) X Tarryn Lamb (Afrikaans Pop) 

Fusion 3 – Mi Casa (Dance House) X Young Stunna (Amapiano) X K.O. (Hip Hop) 

Fusion 4 – Kamo Mphela (Amapiano) X Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse (Afro-Jazz) X Aymos (Amapiano)

 These collaborations will offer audiences a unique soundscape that blends genres and styles like never before, followed by individual performances of chart-topping hits from the iconic artists. 

THE FASHION 

Fashion at the Fusion Fest features renowned designer Thula Sindi. His exclusive ‘Mahindra Line’ will debut at the festival, featuring a bold, modern collection inspired by the sleek designs and engineering of Mahindra SUVs. Festival Goers will also have the chance to purchase limited-edition merchandise designed by Thula blending sophistication with South African heritage.

THE ART 

Art becomes a unifying thread at the Fusion Fest, with a focus on innovation and expression. The festival will feature immersive installations and interactive exhibits that reflect the theme of fusion—blending tradition with modernity, and individuality with community

Limited Fusion Fest tickets start from R150 upwards, and can either be purchased or won via various competitions at local dealerships

https://www.ticketpros.co.za/portal/web/index.php/event/e03cd46c-72ce-e9e5-8a11-6751848a82bb

For more info about the festival and to find out how to secure your place at the Fusion Fest, please follow and engage  on social media  

Website https://mahindra.co.za/fusion-fest/

Facebook @MahindraSouthAfrica 

Instagram @MahindraSouthAfrica 

YouTube Mahindra South Africa (Official Page)

X @Mahindra_SA 

TikTok @mahindrasouthafrica 

#MahindraFusionFest #MahindraSA

Show runs till 15th December.

Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse Brings Legendary Jazz to Theatre on the Square