Mohalenyane Phakela
LEGENDARY South African crooners, Babsy Mlangeni and Steve Kekana, had revelers in the palm of their hands while performing at Maseru Sun Cabanas’ Sophiatown-themed show on Saturday.
Revelers dancing the night away at the Sophiatown Disco bash Maseru Sun last Saturday
The event was staged amid a resurgence of interest in the music of a bygone era and was meant to evoke memories of a vibrant and creative era epitomised by Sophiatown township in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Sophiatown was a multi-cultural area known for its bohemian lifestyle and as a symbol for optimism and an easy-going approach.
Although the audience mainly consisted of mature people, there was a sprinkling of twenty and thirty something year olds who intently copied the moves of their forebearers.
During solo performances, Mlangeni and Kekana belted out some of their classics, which have stood the test of time, with the audience duly dancing and singing along.
Mlangeni’s Sala Emma, Ke Ya Le Leboha and Unalo Na Ithikithi and Kekana’s Raising My Family, Shine On and Makhombo had the audience reliving the days of their youth.
On the decks was the duo of deejays Alex and Napolena of Jam Sessions whose blend of old-school tracks and new sounds kept the crowd on the dancefloor.
Speaking to the Weekender after his performance, Mlangeni expressed appreciation for the warm reception he gets in Lesotho.
“Basotho are always in the spirit of grooving and they welcome us with open arms,” Mlangeni said.
“They enjoy our music and I believe it is because it resonates with people’s everyday life experiences with the rhythmic elements just a cherry on top.”
He added that they would keep the “old-school flame burning” and while thanking fans for their “undying support”.
According to Mlangeni, another Lesotho show after winter is in the offing which would also feature legendary musician Kory Moraba.
On her part, Sun International Lesotho Marketing Manager, Refiloe Mohlotsane said: “The show was a success as the hall was filled with people enjoying themselves and catered for everyone who showed up.
“Since we promised to give different Basotho artists a platform, from the Jam Sessions that we have today, we are hoping to host Jazz musicians Bhudaza and Fatere in future.”
