Musician Gugu Shezi chats to us about her career and upcoming performance at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz. By Kwanele Mathebula
Image: Gugu Shezi IG
Singing at varying events as a child fuelled my passion for music. I used to sing in community and school choirs, weddings and funerals. I also entered various singing competitions. It was a fulfilling experience that made me want to pursue music.
SEE ALSO: 5 minutes with Zoe Modiga
Bra Hugh Masekela discovered me. He found me while I was trying out for Idols South Africa Season 1. Working and touring the world with him was a wonderful experience. I fell in love with the genre and was inspired by the influence of giant jazz musicians that Bra Hugh Masekela introduced me to.
View this post on Instagram
Jorburg theatre ? we ending the show paying tribute to the late Bra Hugh Masekela ??????
Being featured on the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz lineup is a career highlight for me. It will be my biggest stage as a solo artist. Other highlights are touring the world with amazing and great artists, being able to record my album and perform my own music.
View this post on Instagram
At the rehearsal with baba @bheki.khoza # for the love of African music ?
SEE ALSO: 5 minutes with Zandie Khumalo
I feel fortunate and amazed to be performing at such a prestigious event. I remember seeing other artists perform there, and prayed that one day I would also get a chance to perform as well. It is a big platform and I’m hopeful that it will open even bigger doors for me. People will get to experience me as a leading vocalist, the fire that I bring when I perform, and the powerhouse I believe that I am. I’m confident that people will take something away with them from my performance.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz takes place from 27– 29 September at the Sandton Convention Centre.