East London – On the 21st of October 2023 at 7pm, music enthusiasts are in for a treat as Ntsika ‘Fana Mayiza’ Ngxanga, the member of the internationally acclaimed acapella group The Soil, graces the stage at the highly anticipated Umgqungqo Orchestral Experience as a guest artist to Dumza Maswana at Guild Theatre in East London. He will be performing alongside the talented, Likhey Booi and Lulutho Institution.
Ntsika released his debut solo album in 2019, which was praised for its spiritual, cross-generational, and timeless nature. Since then, he has performed at notable events such as the Presidential Inauguration, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, and the Hugh Masekela Commemoration.
Ntsika has also received several awards and nominations, including two South African Music Awards (SAMA) nominations in 2020 and 2021, and a South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMA) nomination in 2019.
When asked how best he can describe his music, Ntsika responded by saying “It is a sacred spiritual experience,” because it is a powerful testament to its impact on listeners. On a more descriptive note, his unique blend of sounds has been classified as “African Adult Contemporary Music,” a label that resonates well with the artist himself.
Having shared the stage with Dumza numerous times, Ntsika speaks passionately about their musical connection. He believes that their shared spirit and unwavering passion for music make them more than just brothers in the industry; they are messengers on a mission to touch hearts and souls.
The Eastern Cape, especially East London, holds a special place in Ntsika’s heart, “The deep connection I feel with the people there and the stories embedded in my songs align perfectly with the experiences of the locals, making the performances in this region truly extraordinary especially the singalongs from the audience,” he added.
Anticipation for the Umgqungqo Orchestral Experience is skyrocketing, and promising nothing short of sheer brilliance and incredible energy, attendees can expect to be taken on a journey to the very origins of these soul-stirring songs.
When it comes to Dumza’s music, Ntsika’s favourite song is Sombawo because “it’s more than a song it becomes a prayer, a meditative experience that leaves me feeling lighter. Dumza is a necessary force in this generation, an icon gifted with conversational and healing songs,” said Ntsika.
The Umgqungqo Orchestral Experience promises to be an unforgettable musical event, with Dumza Maswana, the soapie star Sivuyile Makwethu on Gqeberha – The Empire, known in the musical scene as Likhey Booi and Lulutho Institution. The event will see Metro FM’s presenter of Nothemba’s Urban Jazz Experience, Ms Nothemba Madumo.
Ntsika says revellers should “prepare to be moved, inspired, and transported to a place where music becomes a divine connection between artists and their audience.” Tickets for the event are sold via webtickets and at Boxer stores at R600.
