The Podcast Cafe Classifieds with Lwazi Ka Manqele The Podcast Cafe' Classifieds

In the realm of music, there are projects that transcend mere sound, becoming a conduit for deeper cultural expression and spiritual healing. This week on our podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with the profoundly talented Selema Writes, who shared with us his latest project, 'Ditaola', and the rich tapestry of African culture that it weaves.
The name 'Ditaola' itself is a nod to the traditional healing practices of African cultures, meaning divination bones. Selema delves into the significance of these practices, where traditional healers, known by various classes, interpret the patterns in bones and other objects to communicate with ancestral spirits and understand the mysteries of life.
This project is not just an album; it's a spiritual journey that pays homage to the rituals and wisdom of African ancestors.
Selema's journey into 'Ditaola' is deeply personal. Produced and written by his late uncle, Hugh Masekela, a celebrated artist and musician, the project is a manifestation of music's healing power. He describes music as another class of traditional healing, a tool used throughout his uncle's life to mend and uplift the spirits of others. Selema's respect for his uncle's influence is palpable as he recounts the collaborative process and the guidance he received.
The podcast takes us through Selema's transformation as an artist, from his roots in traditional hip hop to embracing his African heritage more fully. He shares his conscious decision to move away from his Americanized stage persona, Sledgey Lee, to adopt a name that reflects his African identity and commitment to representing African issues and culture through his music.
Listeners are given a behind-the-scenes look at the making of 'Ditaola', from the revolutionary tracks that sparked the project to the intimate studio sessions with his uncle. Selema opens up about the challenges of expanding his musical range, the evolution of his artistic identity, and the profound impact his uncle's guidance had on his work.
As the episode concludes with the single "Simbonile", we're reminded of the power of music to connect us to our roots and to each other. Selema Writes 'Ditaola' is not just an album; it's a clarion call for cultural pride, remembrance, and the healing nature of music.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation. Tune in to experience the synergy of African tradition, music, and spirituality through the eyes of an artist dedicated to preserving and celebrating his heritage. Listen to the episode and let 'Ditaola' resonate with your spirit.
#Ditaola #SelemaWrites #AfricanHealing #MusicTherapy #CulturalPride

In this soul-stirring episode of The Podcast Cafe Classifieds, Lwazi sits down with the multifaceted Zwonaka, a visionary artist embarking on an international journey from the heart of South Africa to the prestigious halls of Berklee. Zwonaka opens up about his quest to transcend the confines of genre and geography, delving into the rich tapestry of his music that defies the mainstream sounds of his homeland. With a passion for electronic production and a thirst for knowledge in music management, Zwonaka is sculpting a path that's uniquely his own.

We travel back to his high school days, exploring the profound impact of his diverse educational experiences on his artistic evolution. From the strict corridors of St. Stithians to the liberating halls of the British International College, Zwonaka's story is a testament to the power of self-expression and the pursuit of personal style. Homeschooling in 2020 becomes a crucible for his creative growth, where discipline and passion collide to forge a sound that's ready to grace the world stage.

Zwonaka also shares the intimate details of his latest release, "I Hate You, But I Could Never Hate You," a heartfelt narrative born from a real-life multiracial relationship. He reflects on the universal challenges and lessons learned from such unions, advocating for love that transcends cultural barriers.

As Zwonaka navigates the complexities of identity, masculinity, and artistic freedom, his insights on the global music scene—from the rise of Latin American beats to the magnetic pull of K-pop—are as enlightening as they are inspiring. Join us for this profound conversation that's more than just an interview—it's a journey into the heart of a young artist poised to redefine the soundscape of our time.

For the love of music, the art of storytelling, and the courage to dream beyond borders, tune in to this episode of The Podcast Cafe' Classifieds with Lwazi Ka Manqele and witness the emergence of Zwonaka, a true artist for the ages.

Her aura matches her music. We speak about her latest offering UGCOBO and her upcoming debut concert at the Playhouse Theatre in Durban and 'Umjolo o'Healthy'

This was one of those moments where I was left with a profound assurance that said:

Nomfundo Moh is here to stay and she is going to touch hearts and change the world for the better.

A 'rare find' kind of an artist...

The Creative Director, Lungile Zapho takes us through her story of love for servicing her Whitr City community, her Impactful touch in Soweto's arts development and the remarkable inspiration she inherits from the Morris Isaacson Centre for Music.

A celebration of South African women as we head towards 30 years of Mzansi's historical democracy.

South African Music Award Winner for Best Classical Album 2022 Khanyi Mthethwa elevates her profile in 2023 with an induction into the Recording Academy's (known as Grammy's) Voting Membership Club.

In a conversation with Lwazi Ka Manqele the world class flutist shares her sentiments on the inclusion of women, access to education and the benefits of creating forums that will inform artist's roadmap to the international stages

South African legendary Bassist Jimmy Mngwandi who is based in New York welcomes Japanese Pianist Yayoi Ikawa on her visit to perform at the Durban International Jazz Festival.

In Africa for only her third time and her first SA tour, Yayoi shares her sentiments on the mother continent and the two share their favourite things about using YAMAHA music instruments.