A heartfelt tribute to Mama Africa
THULILE Zama, original member of jazz band, Heels over Head, is paying tribute to one of the most iconic singers in the world – Miriam Makeba. Together with her band, consisting of David Smith on keys, Rebekah Doty on drums and Sbusiso Mkhonze on bass guitar, they will pay tribute to Mama Africa in song at the Rhumbelow Theatre in Umbilo from April 28 to 30. I spoke to her about Miriam Makeba, the show and what to expect.
Why Miriam? Of all the legendary icons, what is it about her that you felt you should do a whole show singing her songs?
There is a lot to her music that I feel is overlooked. People hear “Mama Africa” and think Click song (Qongqothwane), Mbube and Pata Pata (which will be on the repertoire) but her music is rich and full of depth. She brought to life a lot of songs. She inspires me.
How old where you when you heard Miriam sing for the first time?
My mom owned a few – one or two – LPS (which were banned in South Africa for some time as she was an apartheid activist and exiled) so as long as I can remember, Miriam Makeba has been a part of my life’s sound track. Favourite song of hers? Not fair, such an unfair question. If I have to choose, Aluta Continua, written by her daughter Bongi Makeba in celebration of the independence of Mozambique
I’ve heard you sing a number of Miriam Makeba songs in the past and you’ve always given them a new interpretation. Are we going to get the same at your show next week?
Yes, for sure, we put a unique spin on some songs, but we also keep the arrangements as is on some songs.
Why is it important for musicians to actually sing their own interpretation of famous songs?
I think to add different flavour and our own understanding. Music grows, all the time. Some people get frustrated when they go to their favourite artists’ live show, and they have rearranged the whole repertoire to the point of the music being unrecognisable.
If there’s one song of hers that you could add to, say, a solo album, which one would it be and why? Meet Me at the River, because I love love. What is it about the music created by our icons that makes it so endearing, even today?
I guess for me, because I don’t relate too much to the music of today, I believe in great lyrics, great arrangements, I am holding on to my idea of good music. Even in my own original material, I try and produce music that you will still be enjoying in 20 years from now.
Do you have a favourite performance by Miriam that you always refer to before you rehearse – to get a bit of her spirit going in the room?
No not really. I think she gave out her best every time she stepped on stage. Her passing in Italy just after giving a performance in 2008 is evidence of that.
Five reasons why we should make sure we come to the show?
Miriam Makeba is one of the greatest artists of our country. Her music is inspiring. We have worked very hard to tribute this greatness that is Mama Africa.
For your favourite Makeba song and a journey through the remarkable songs produced through the years by this Icon. To witness the sounds of a great woman.
And finally, to learn about her, for the people less familiar with her.