Musician Gugu Shezi chats to us about her career and upcoming performance at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz. By Kwanele Mathebula
Image: Gugu Shezi IG
Singing at varying events as a child fuelled my passion for music. I used to sing in community and school choirs, weddings and funerals. I also entered various singing competitions. It was a fulfilling experience that made me want to pursue music.
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Bra Hugh Masekela discovered me. He found me while I was trying out for Idols South Africa Season 1. Working and touring the world with him was a wonderful experience. I fell in love with the genre and was inspired by the influence of giant jazz musicians that Bra Hugh Masekela introduced me to.
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Jorburg theatre ? we ending the show paying tribute to the late Bra Hugh Masekela ??????
Being featured on the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz lineup is a career highlight for me. It will be my biggest stage as a solo artist. Other highlights are touring the world with amazing and great artists, being able to record my album and perform my own music.
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At the rehearsal with baba @bheki.khoza # for the love of African music ?
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I feel fortunate and amazed to be performing at such a prestigious event. I remember seeing other artists perform there, and prayed that one day I would also get a chance to perform as well. It is a big platform and I’m hopeful that it will open even bigger doors for me. People will get to experience me as a leading vocalist, the fire that I bring when I perform, and the powerhouse I believe that I am. I’m confident that people will take something away with them from my performance.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz takes place from 27– 29 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.
