TKZee, the iconic kwaito band has been added to the line up of this year’s event to be headlined by the British reggae and neo soul band Soul to Soul. SA’s iconic kwaito band TKZee has been added to the line up of this year’s line up headlined by the British reggae and neo soul band Soul to Soul. Picture: Dumisani Sibeko/Independent Newspapers
In an exciting musical collaboration that underscores the joy of unity and nostalgia, iconic South African kwaito band TKZee is set to join British reggae and neo-soul legends Soul II Soul in a special concert series this February.
The 'Intimate Evening Series', a partnership between Liberty, Griza Enterprises, and Showtime Management, promises to deliver unforgettable moments filled with rhythm, connection and shared memories.
On February 1, Soul II Soul will perform in Johannesburg, followed by a concert at Cape Town’s stunning Kirstenbosch Gardens on February 8. Known for their timeless classics such as “Keep On Movin’” and the chart-topping “Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)”, Soul II Soul's influence on the music scene remains palpable, having reached number one in both the US and the UK upon release in 1989.
Adding local flair to this star-studded line-up are South African musical heroes TKZee, a former trio turned duo comprising Kabelo Mabalane, and Zwai Bala.
Rising to fame in the 1990s, TKZee entered the hearts of fans across Africa with their 1997 and 1998 hits “Palafala” and “Shibobo”, which each surpassed sales of 100, 000 copies. Their innovative sound, a fusion of kwaito, hip-hop, classical, house, and gospel, led to the birth of “Guz” music—a phenomenon that captivated a generation.
TKZee’s legacy is further enriched by their accolades, including a record five South African Music Awards won in a single year for their celebrated album “Halloween” in 1998.
While the band parted ways in 2002 to explore solo ventures, they reunited in 2009 and were notably one of the few African acts to perform at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony, marking a defining moment in their illustrious career.
Following the passing of Tokollo Tshabalala in 2022, Mabalane and Bala remain dedicated to preserving the legacy of TKZee while continuing to innovate in their musical journey.
Concertgoers at the Montecasino Outdoor Events Area can expect a vibrant festival atmosphere, complete with a variety of food and beverages available on-site. Attendees are advised that picnic baskets and outside food will not be permitted.
Marees Bostander, Head of Brand Strategy and Sponsorships at Liberty, expressed the company's commitment to enriching South African lives through shared experiences. “The Soul II Soul concert series is a celebration of connection, resilience, and joy—an opportunity for audiences to relive cherished memories and create new ones through the timeless power of music,” she stated.
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za