Brothers are still rocking

NEARLY seven decades ago, local music group The Manhattan Brothers debuted, and now, in their honour, the Soweto Theatre will host a musical tribute by young and upcoming talent.

Between December 8 and 18, the production will feature choreography by media personality Somizi Mhlongo, with SA Idols season 11 runner-up Mmatema Moremi as Miriam Makeba and local a cappella group Complete portraying the Manhattan Brothers. According to director Makhaola Ndebele, the audience are in for an intimate but celebratory experience. “It is about paying tribute to our roots, where the young pay tribute to the old.

“The show will also feature a live band, with musical direction from Johan Mthethwa,” he said. “South Africa is known for its music, it is in our heritage. The Manhattan Brothers paved the way even when they were not allowed to do so back in the 1950s. They even went on to gain international recognition for their efforts,” said Makhaola.

The origins of the Manhattan Brothers date back to 1930, when Joe Mogotsi, Rufus Khoza, Ronnie Majola Sehume and group leader Nathan Mdledle attended school together in Pimville, Soweto. In 1948, the group recorded their first single and began their walk on the road to stardom.

In 1950, the group expanded to include vocalist Makeba, whose career took off from there. In 1956, they were the first South African group to be included in the US Billboard pop chart, for