29 May 2022

Jazz lovers will be in for a treat as Gaborone International Music Concert (GIMC) organisers have roped-in South African music legend, Ringo Madlingozi for the show’s jazz edition billed for GICC on August 27.

The Baleka star has had a career spanning over three decades and has been at the forefront of Afro-pop in South Africa since the 80s, and his fans are always thrilled by his agility, captivating and ever gyrating performances.

He has become known for releasing hit albums, with each record becoming more popular and successful than the previous, such as Into Yam, Buyisa, Ekuseni and Baleka.

Flying the BW flag will be the contemporary folk star band with a touch of jazz and pop, Sereetsi and the Native, who are not newbies to the GIMC stage.

Sereetsi and the Natives broke the internet and music scene in 2015 with a smash hitting album Four Strings Confessions with songs such as Robete, Thaa Kakomee, Chankaneng and Maitsetsepelo.

Led by Sereetsi’s refreshing husky vocals, the band became an instant hit not only in the local music scene, but traversed SADC as well as European countries, mesmerising audiences with their unique rendition of the Setswana contemporary music.

The band has also collaborated with the likes of the late Oliver Mtukudzi and Jonathan Butler, sharing stage at some of their international appearances.

Revellers should also look forward to seeing 24-year-old Dato Seiko, who will be making her first appearance on GIMC stage.

Kwaito star Mapetla’s younger sister is not a new kid on the block as she has made her own strides in the industry, having worked with the industry giants such as Dj Kuchi, Chef Gustos, Sebina as well as Thato Jessica.  

She featured Sebina on her extended play titled Grace Effect, as well as Jessica and Jordan Mooz.

Another addition to the menu is Zimbabwean-born Berita, now living in South Africa, who will be gracing the GIMC show for the first time. The 31-year-old singer/song writer’s superpower voice gained her popularity in the Southern Africa region entertainment scene with songs such as Siyathandana, Thandolwethu and Nguwe Weda.

Mpho Sebina is also among those expected to light up the stage of the most highly sought after jazz show after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

The last GIMC jazz show was held in 2019 while other GIMC festivities also we re also suspended for two years.  

Last year December, GIMC organisers teased fans with the glamorous GIMC Champagne Picnic followed by GIMC Afro Tech in April, the show that added to the diversity of entertainment in the midst of Amapiano invasion of the showbiz scene.

The second edition of GIMC Afro Tech will be held next month as a build up to the main GIMC shows such as the GIMC jazz. ENDS