Voices of a generation honour icons in concert aimed at healing a fractured society

As the days draw closer to the fifth edition of the Rebirth of Ubuntu music concert, a celebration of South Africa’s rich culture and creative industry, anticipation continues to build.

The concert is set to serve as a fellowship where people can reconnect with and revive the spirit of Ubuntu.

Taking place over two days, from 29 to 30 May at the Joburg Theatre, audiences are encouraged to treat the musical exchange as more than entertainment, but rather as an experience that restores compassion for humanity.

Through the historic sounds of South African music, the concert aims to channel the spirit of the legends who pioneered positive change in the country. Drawing from their stories and sonic brilliance, producer and curator of the concert, Billy Monama, hopes the event will revive humanity within society.

“It’s a revival of Ubuntu,” he says. “And I know it’s not reaching those people who are killing women. It’s not reaching those people who own guns because those people who just pull out a gun and shoot someone have lost humanity.

“That’s not who we are as a people. So it means we have lost that touch. This concert needs to reach them.”

The sounds of history will be carried by a group of extraordinary young voices, with artists set to pay homage to some of South Africa’s musical greats. Lira will bring her smooth vocals in telling the story of legendary singer Miriam Makeba, while powerhouse Zoë Modiga will honour the fearless and boundary-breaking legacy of Busi Mhlongo.

Tutu Puoane will lend her soothing and rich voice in tribute to South Africa’s “First Lady of Song”, Sibongile Khumalo. Vusi Nova, with his soulful sound, is set to channel Lucky Dube’s African reggae influence, while Monama himself will celebrate Allen Kwela’s guitar mastery.

Monama explained the inspiration behind his curation, “We are using young people to carry that voice and extend it into today. That is why the artist line-up includes younger people. It is a mixture of legends and younger people.”

He added that the celebration is not only about dancing to music, but also about engaging with songs that can shift the way people think.

“When we have a microphone in front of 20,000 people, we have the power to say something that is going to create change. We cannot take that for granted. As young people, we must always remember and adhere to our calling and why we are artists.”

Beyond the music, the concert also embodies diversity in all its facets. With around 150 people employed for the production, the majority of them women, Monama said he intentionally ensured that opportunities go beyond the performers on stage.

“The people in my management team are all women. Just because you don’t see them on stage does not mean I don’t work with women. And on stage, we have a 20-piece orchestra, and there are women there as well.”

Monama added that he is deeply appreciative of the sponsors who continue to support the concert, saying their contributions have allowed the event to continue thriving over the years.