Celebrating Madalaline Music
by Mamodise Mailula
Madala Kunene Live in Concert celebrated the living legend whose career spans over five decades. He established the ‘Madalaline’ style of guitar playing, combining blues and soul with African folk, and enveloped the trancelike quality of his Zulu folk singing.
The concert showcased Madala Kunene (acoustic guitars and vocals) and Lerato Lichaba (electric guitar and backing vocals) live in concert. The hybrid show was produced by and live streamed from House of Kuumba – Westridge, Durban and consisted of a family friendly live audience.
The audience in Durban had the opportunity to view Madala Kunene’s previous works projected in a separate room. This was to showcase Madala’s career in the music industry. In addition, the show celebrated the birthday of Robert Trunz, founder of M.E.L.T 2000 – a record label that has released all Madala’s albums to date and included legendary artists such as the late Busi Mhlongo and the late Moses Taiwa Molelekwa.
We show also featured two vinyl DJs – Dice and KBZL who both play African music, which created soundscapes fit for the event.
Attending musicologist Dr Sazi Dlamini, whose PhD work back in the 1990’s included Madala Kunene, and myself remarked on the addition of an electric guitarist. We both felt that Lerato Lichaba’s unique painting of musical soundscapes complemented Madala‘s signature playing, showing respect and leaving the master all the space to spread his message of peace, wit and wisdom.
– Robert Trunz M.E.L.T 2000
African icon Madala Kunene, left audiences both in-venue and online, feeling energised after an emotive and intimate performance. The show was supported by Concerts SA, the Royal Norwegian Embassy, SAMRO Foundation and IKS Cultural Consulting as part of the Digital Mobility Fund 2022 initiative designed for local artists who want to present professional and high-quality performances. The concert is available for replay on the House of Kuumba Youtube channel.
