Special Star(s): Mango Groove kick off 40th anniversary celebrations with Kirstenbosch concert (more to come!)

Iconic South African group Mango Groove kicks off its 40th anniversary celebrations with a concert at Cape Town's Kirstenbosch Gardens on Sunday afternoon, but that's just the start of what's set to be an exciting year.

Amy MacIver asks lead singer Claire Johnston about the secret to their longevity.

The band was formed during the dark days of apartheid when Johnston was just 17, and she says their growth along with our democracy is part of their appeal.

"We started during a time where black and white South Africans were 'not encouraged' to do anything together, and then of course there was the wonderful transition into democracy and we were very much a part of that."

"I think that cemented us to some degree in South Africans' minds, and for us was bonding... It was an amazing time."

Claire Johnston, Mango Groove

It's appropriate that they're starting their anniversary year at Kirstenbosch, one of the band's very favourite venues in the world, says Johnston.

And, it won't be their usual Kirstenbosch show, with some surprises in store for the audience. 

"It's very fitting we kick it off in Cape Town -  It's at Kirstenbosch Gardens, the beautiful South African sky above us and all the beauty of nature,"

"It's 11 crazy members on stage, you'll have to come and see what the surprises are! We've also unearthed some songs that we haven't performed for a while that people will enjoy."

Claire Johnston, Mango Groove

Plans for further performances in 2025 are still in the works, but the band is aiming for all the major centres, and beyond, the singer says.

"As many places as possible that we can go to, because that's how we started...travelling the country - small towns, big towns, so we'll see how far this takes us."

Claire Johnston, Mango Groove

Producing new music is also on the cards, along with some legacy projects including a documentary and a musical.

"Looking back over the 40 years we're starting to feel creative juices stirring again, which is a nice feeling."

Claire Johnston, Mango Groove

Gates open at 4 pm at Kirstenbosch on 12 January, and the concert starts at 5.15 pm.

Tickets are available on Webtickets.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview with Johnston