One of South Africa’s most influential singers brings her unique blend of traditional Xhosa rhythms, mbaqanga, kwaito, and jazz to Koerner Hall. Acoustic guitarist and singer-songwriter Kunle opens the evening.

Thandiswa Mazwai is one of post-apartheid South Africa's most sought-after singers. For nearly 30 years, she has championed a kind of dance music called kwaito, the South African genre that mixes a variety of rhythms and influences, including hip-hop, reggae, jazz, and house music. Born in the Eastern Cape, raised in Soweto, and now living in Johannesburg, Thandiswa’s personal journey is reflected in her music. She has shared the stage with Salif Keita, Skunk Anansie, Cesária Évora, Stevie Wonder, and Angélique Kidjo, and her creativity has led to inspiring collaborations with stellar artists across the world like Meshell Ndegeocello, Hugh Masekela, Phuzekhemisi, and Busi Mhlongo, among many others.

An award-winning multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter, Kunle’s folk and soul music bridges contemporary styles with roots in West African rhythms and stories. Nigerian-born and currently based in Toronto, Kunle combines his rich vocals, guitar tapping, harmonica, and talking drum to take audiences into what he terms “music with no boundaries.”

Presented in association with Batuki Music Society