Get ready for the next generation of talent from South Africa, and Botswana, as they take the spotlight!

A musical legacy unfolds as the Diamond City Jazz Festival celebrates an intergenerational exchange of talent, bringing together jazz legends and ‘soon-to-be legends’ for a night of unparalleled artistry. The festival, set to take place in Botswana - at the Bojanala Waterfront, will see iconic figures like Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, McCoy Mrubata, Steve Dyer, and Bhudaza Mapefane share the stage with a younger wave of artists, reinforcing jazz’s enduring spirit and evolution.

For decades, these legends have shaped the sound of African jazz, blending indigenous rhythms with global influences to create music that transcends borders. Festival Director - Hotstix Mabuse, a pioneer in South African jazz and popular music, has inspired generations with timeless hits like Burn Out; while McCoy Mrubata, a master saxophonist, has carried the torch of Cape jazz, fusing tradition with contemporary sounds. Bhudaza Mapefane, the pride of Lesotho, has mesmerized audiences with his soulful saxophone and deep-rooted Sesotho jazz, and Steve Dyer, a versatile musician, and composer, renowned for his exceptional skills on the saxophone and flute, blending traditional African sounds with contemporary jazz influences make him a respected figure in both the South African jazz scene and the international music community.

This year’s festival is more than a concert—it’s a cultural exchange where wisdom meets innovation. Young and dynamic talents like Mpumi Dhlamini, Nono Siile, Azana, Jordan Moozy, and Mpho Sebina will share the spotlight, sharing the stage with veterans while bringing fresh perspectives to the genre. The event underscores how jazz remains a living, breathing art form, one that honours its past while embracing the future.

“Jazz is about storytelling, and every generation adds its own voice to the narrative,” says festival curator Rapula Kegopilwe. “This festival ensures that the knowledge, technique, and passion of legends like Hotstix, McCoy, and Bhudaza don’t fade but instead ignite new flames in young musicians.”

Furthermore, says Kegopilwe, 

“This platform is a testament to the shared cultural heritage and vibrant music scene that unites us all. With our strong commitment to fostering unity through the arts, this festival brings together artists and audiences from across the region in a shared love for music.”

Beyond performances, the festival will feature mentorship sessions where young artists engage directly with the legends, gaining invaluable insights into the music industry, technique, and the deeper cultural significance of jazz. This initiative aligns with the festival’s vision: to nurture talent, preserve heritage, and build a bridge between the old and the new.

As part of the festival’s networking and cultural engagement activities, a golf day at the prestigious Stanbic Golf Course will bring together musicians, industry leaders, and business professionals, fostering connections in a relaxed setting ahead of the main event.

The Diamond City Jazz Festival is more than just a celebration of music; it is a platform for cultural exchange, community engagement, and creative expression. Beyond the star-studded performances, the festival will feature local crafts, culinary delights, and opportunities for fans to connect with artists and one another.

As the festival unfolds, audiences will witness a musical conversation across generations, proving that jazz is timeless. The passing of the baton ensures that while the melodies may evolve, the soul of African jazz remains unshaken.

Tickets for the Diamond City Jazz Festival are now available at Webtickets from P300. Secure your spot today and experience the best of African jazz in the heart of Botswana.

Translated as “I love you” in Venda, “ndi a mufuna” is an ode to a lover like no other. Muneyi lends his signature emotional depth to the song, pouring out his heart and soul to express a devotion that transcends the ordinary. Together, Una Rams and Muneyi craft a melody that resonates deeply, celebrating a love that engages the heart, mind and spirit.

“This song is a celebration of love in its truest, most transformative form,” Una Rams shares. “With ‘meet me at the altar’, I wanted to create music that captures the beauty and joy of weddings, moments that define our lives. ‘ndi a mufuna’ is the beginning of that journey, and it’s a deeply personal expression of love for the people we cherish.”

The release is accompanied by stunning visuals, now available on YouTube, that beautifully brings the song’s message to life. Shot with elegance and emotion, the video is a visual love letter to the power of connection and commitment, making it the perfect complement to the song’s rich melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

“ndi a mufuna” is the first chapter in “meet me at the altar”, a collection of wedding songs that promises to redefine the soundtrack of love. Each track on the album, which will be launched soon, is designed to honour love stories across cultures, making it a must-have for weddings, anniversaries, and any moment that celebrates togetherness.

Kem, known for his smooth vocals and timeless hits, has built a legendary career that spans over two decades. His critically acclaimed albums, including Kemistry, Intimacy, and Promise to Love, have earned him multiple Grammy nominations, chart-topping singles, and a dedicated global fan base. Songs like Love Calls, I Can’t Stop Loving You, and Lie to Me have cemented his place as one of the most beloved voices in modern soul music.

This marks Kem’s much-anticipated return to South Africa, where his previous performances left audiences captivated by his soulful sound and magnetic stage presence. Speaking about his upcoming visit, Kem shared his excitement:

“I’m thrilled to be coming back to South Africa! The warmth and passion of South African fans are unparalleled, and I can’t wait to share these special nights with you. Expect an evening filled with love, soul, and timeless music that connects us all.”

The concerts promise a unique blend of Kem’s greatest hits alongside new music that has continued to elevate his artistry. With a full live band and stunning production, these shows are set to be an extraordinary musical journey that fans won’t want to miss.

Tickets for Kem’s Sunbet Arena concerts are now available through Ticketpro, Spar PayZone, PostNet, and BP outlets nationwide. Early booking is strongly encouraged to avoid disappointment.