Ahead of his return to this year’s Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, veteran South African jazz trumpeter Sydney Mavundla reflects on his musical journey and the power of music to inspire change and heal communities.
Mavundla, who will present music from his latest album, Dirge For Our Fathers, said artists should use their platforms to reflect the realities facing society rather than remain silent.
“As for music, we are in a space where we have to say things. I call musicians, especially jazz musicians, healers, so we cannot turn a blind eye when something is not right. It is our duty to tell the people that this one is messing up as a political party or as a government, and this one is doing this to the community.”
His comments come as South Africa marks 50 years since the Soweto Uprising, an event he says continues to shape the role musicians play in society despite him being only five years old at the time.
Reflecting on the legacy of jazz icons such as Hugh Masekela, Abdullah Ibrahim and Jonas Gwangwa, Mavundla said their willingness to use music to challenge injustice remains an example for younger generations.
