Mashiloane crowned Mzantsi king of jazz
Gong fires up musician
Jazz pianist Sibusiso “Mash” Mashiloane is on cloud nine after bagging the Best Contemporary Jazz Album at the 2021 Mzantsi Jazz Awards (MJA) at the weekend.
The 5th edition of MJA took place on Saturday virtually and saw some of the country’s finest jazz artists being recognised. Speaking to SowetanLive, an elated Mashiloane said he was honoured to win with his 5th album Ihubo Labomdabu, which was released in January.
“I am excited and I feel very happy that my album which is a solo piano is getting recognition. I really take off my hat to the listeners because this is just piano, no vocals. The reaction that I have been getting on this album has been amazing and surprising because we are used to music that is dominated by vocals. As an artist I feel very much encouraged.”
Mashiloane admitted that with Ihubo Labomdabu, he really dug deep in his piano playing skills. “It is one of the albums where I availed myself as an artist for the music to flow and mix it very authentically. Sometimes I get shocked when I listen to the final product that. I was able to play that music with a lot of intellect and honesty.”
Mashiloane, who received four nominations, is not disappointed that he was able to bag one award. He said being nominated was a big thing for him and he appreciated walking away with the best contemporary jazz album award.
Other winners of Mzantsi Jazz Awards include Tefo Mahole, whose album First Offering was voted by the public as the Best Jazz Album, while Thembelihle Dunjana’s song Song and Living was also voted by the public as the best jazz song.
Best Traditional Jazz Album award went to Asher Gamedze and Best Female Jazz Artist award was won by Thembelihle Dunjana. Linda Sikhakhane was voted the best Male Jazz Artist. The Best International Jazz Collaboration gong was won by Deelee Dube and Best Radio Station Playing Jazz went to Kofifi FM 97.2.