Billy Monama's 'Back to the Future' concert returns to Soweto
Renowned local musician Billy Monama is set to present the fourth edition of his “Back to the Future” concert in Soweto on Saturday, February 8.
This one-night only show, which will also feature award-winning songwriters Monoea and Zamajobe, is supported by the National Arts Council and is hosted in partnership with Soweto Theatre.
The musical showcase will take the path of the acclaimed South African guitarist, author, researcher, composer and producer's auto-biographical musical journey.
It will also be a unique journey that echoes Monama's musical voice as it seeks to inspire the audience to embrace the future with optimism and a renewed sense of identity.
Monama’s “Back to the Future” showcase, which has become a significant event in South Africa's music scene, has been running for the past three years.
This year’s edition has been designed to help the audience reflect on as well as celebrate over three-decades of South African’s democracy through the musical journey of the past composers and musicians over 30 years.
The concerts come after a workshop was facilitated by music professionals and educators last week.
Meanwhile, the show will feature a diverse range of musical offerings. This includes kwaito, jazz and Afro soul in eight configurations.
Some of these will be “Genesis, Black Consciousness”, “Tribute to the Masters”, “Intercession”, “The Love Corner, Afrocentric Corner, Revelations” and “Tribute to South African Women.”’
“This concert is a compelling musical journey of Monama that reflects 27 years of his artistic evolution while offering a message of optimism, renewal for the future and a poignant reflection on the nation's memory,” the organisers said.
Monama also added: “We strongly believe that in order to have a clearer perception of the present, in our pursuit of the future, it is imperative that we meaningfully reflect onto the past, we are like time travellers in the future through music.”
Where: The Gibson Kente Theatre at the Soweto Theatre.
When: Saturday, February 8.
Cost: Tickets range from R250 to R500 and are available through Webtickets.
Soke
Yet another musical celebration, called “Soke”, is also taking place in Joburg this weekend, where the sounds of the continent are set to be commemorated.
The event is curated by Untamed Authority and is held multiple times a year, alternating between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Harare, Zimbabwe.
It is an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats, the rich flavours, good company as well as fashion which is inspired by the diverse heritage of Africa.
“This daytime event promises to be an unforgettable experience,” the organisers said.
They also encouraged attendees to add a touch of African flair to their outfits in a bid to embrace the rich cultural tapestry that “Soke” celebrates. The day is filled with African music, food, fashion and more.
The event is curated by Untamed Authority and is held multiple times a year, alternating between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Harare, Zimbabwe.
Where: Maracana in Sandton.
When: Sunday, February 9, from 1pm to 10pm.
Cost: Tickets range from R100 to R3000 and are available through Webtickets.
The Westgate Road Race
Runners are invited to lace up their running shoes and join the Roodepoort Athletics Club for this brand-new event, which is a wonderful opportunity to smash your fitness goals this year.
add another accomplishment under your belt.
From children to the elderly, the Westgate Road Race is open to people from all walks of life.
Meanwhile, the course includes a five as well as a 10 kilometre race.
However, all participants who are not registered with the club are required to pay an additional fee of R60 for a temporary license for the main race.
Online entries exclude transaction fees, which will be added at check out. Late and on the day, entries will carry a R10 surcharge.
The first 100 entries will receive a free T-shirt, thereafter a limited number of t-shirts will be available for purchase on the online entry system. Manual entries are not eligible for a T Shirt purchase.
In addition, those who complete the race will receive a medal. The event is being held in accordance with the rules of ASA and CGA.
Where: Westgate Shopping Centre in Roodepoort.
When: Sunday, February 9, from 6am to 12pm.
Cost: Tickets range from R80 to R150 and are available through www.peaktiming.co.za.