Local musician Jahkongo Shango – aka De Afrikan Warrior – is up for nomination in the South African Traditional Music Achievement awards.
Local musician Jahkongo Shango – aka De Afrikan Warrior – is up for nomination in the South African Traditional Music Achievement awards.
Jahkongo's track Bambulele from his first EP All I Want is competing for Best Reggae Song at the 8th annual SATMA Awards. This year, the ceremony is being held in the Eastern Cape for the first time.
Jahkongo – or Mandla Qotsini – fell in love with music at a very young age. A regular in church, Jahkongo found inspiration in the melodies, harmony and lyrics of reggae.
His musical influences include Peter Tosh, Capleton, Hugh Masekela, Mzwakhe Mbuli, and Brenda Fassie.
His song Bambulele laments the political strife taking place in so many African countries.
Public nominations opened last weekend and close on 10 August, giving audiences across the country a chance to honour their favourite musicians.
The final nominees will be announced at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mafikeng in August, and the awards ceremony will take place in November.
Born in Soweto, Jahkongo spent some time in Cape Town before settling down in Grahamstown. "Grahamstown inspires me a lot," he says.
"Growing up in the big city made me appreciate this small, intimate place."
He likes being able to escape the noise of the city in the mountains surrounding Grahamstown, where he finds that quiet space he feels all musicians need to be able to create something unique.
To show your support, SMS "SATMA, Jahkongo – Bambulele, Best Reggae Song" to 34066. To check out Jahkongo's self-entitled debut album, call him on 0791474210 or email jahkongo@yahoo.com.
