A few weeks ago I got my hands on both the DVD and audio CD versions of recently released Stimela‘s Live At The Playhouse Theatre in Durban concert. The legendary band recorded in celebrations of their three decades in the business of creating and performing real and quality music.

MC Shado Twala looking classy.

Over the next few days I listened to the audio CD edition, and subsequently watched the DVD. As I did, I reminisced on the days growing up in Umbumbulu in the south of Durban when I heard their iconic music on the radio. I also got to learn so much about more of their music and about the band itself. I remembered watching in awe and amazement the late Nana Coyote perform with Joe Nina and Steve Kekana as part of the TRIO group about two years ago.

Kaizer Kganyago representing partner SABC.

When I received an invite to attend the launch of Stimela‘s new studio album aptly titled A Lifetime, it was only natural to accept with such enthusiasm and high energy. I wanted to experience what I’d seen in that DVD, albeit the absence of big-voiced Coyote.

Sibongile Khumalo and friends at pre-cocktail dinner.

Last night The Market Theatre turned into a bank of memories as different generations, mostly those who fervently lived during the earlier times of Stimela, congregated to witness yet another special moment in the history of the band and that of our musical heritage. The enigmatic buzz in the air was hypnotic. Amongst some of the popular faces that were spotted during the pre-cocktail reception dinner include jazz vocalist of note Mama Sibongile Khumalo, broadcaster and local music ambassador Shado Twala, Mama Afrika‘s talented granddaughter Zenzi and many from the art fraternity.

Tshepo Tsola showing some support.

After enjoying some of African most revered dishes like “usu” (tripe) and samp, we were escorted to the theatre where the magic would ensue. It turned out that Shado Twala was the compeer for the night, and what a fitting host for such a glorious occasion. Before introducing the band to the stage, she introduced SABC spokensperson Kaizer Kganyago to say a few words since the broadcaster were partners for the event and for promoting this new body of work. Kganyago shared his own memories created by the remarkable force that is Stimela.

Mashadi delivered a charming and witty speech.

And then 28 year old Mashadi stole the hearts of the audience as she relayed her own accounts of what Stimela and their music meant for her as a young woman born at the same time the band was born. Her poetic words and speech charm created a memorable scene for all that were present. And then the mastermind behind prolific band, Ray Phiri, was called to the stage to introduce the band. This moment was undoubtedly one of the highlights for the night. He introduced the original members of the band, ending his descriptive overture with that of late Nana Coyote.

Portia Sibiya just before being handed over the bass guitar by Lloyd Lelosa.

The noteworthy hihjlights didn’t end there. Phiri allowed fellow band member Lloyd Lelosa to hand over his duties as band’s bass player to a young woman Portia Sibiya before formally welcoming more new band members Joel (not sure of his surname) on guitar and Bafana Khuzwayo on keys. These talented youngstars join the original band members Isaac Mtshali, Jabu Sibumbe, Thapelo Khomo, and Ntokozo Zungu. Saxophonist Barry Snyman, percussionist Tlale Makhene, guitarist Kunle Ayo and a trio on the horn section were also introduced as friends to accompany the band for the night.

Ray Phiri calling out spirit of last band member, late Nana Coyote.

Unfortunataly, I left early as I had to attend another function. However, that wasn’t until I could witness and experience a moving tribute to Nana Coyote by the band, a few minutes after the whole house observed a minute’s silence for our beloved and missed fallen soldier. It also wasn’t until I, together with the likes of Malaika‘s Tsedi Moholo and Bra Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, enjoyed the rousing performances of Stimela‘s hits Zwakala (Come To Me) and Whispers In The Deep (Phinda Mzala), the latter featuring Sam Ndlovu on the vocal parts originally sung by Coyote.

Ray Phiri doing the 'tsipa' with Sam Ndlovu.

As short as my experience was, I’ll still cherish it for the rest of my lifetime. It was absolutely amazing seeing such awesome support for the pioneers of some of the sounds that shaped our music. Even more great was seeing fellow musicians like Tshepo Tsola and Sibongile Khumalo come to support their peers.

Tumi Mokwena of Tumi Productions and business partner

Since last night, I’ve been lucky to listen to some of the music from A Lifetime. Standing out from this music is the track called Turn On The Sun which also features Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Thandiswa Mazwai on vocals, with DJ Black Coffee doing his magic on the remix version of the same song. It’s got that signature sound and nostalgic style, yet fresh and current in its delivery.

I’m so looking forward to listening to the album in its entirety. It comes out on the 20th of November 2010. Go out there and get your copy as well.

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