AWARD-winning singer Amanda Black will be blessing the Jazz in July festival next weekend with her soulful music.
Amanda said she is excited to be part of the festival, which is expected to take place every year from now on.
The singer whose real name is Amanda Antony told SunBuzz that performing with famous stars is a dream come true.
“This makes me grateful because I grew up listening to all the legends in the line-up.
“Zonke, Thandiswa Mazwai and Ringo helped me understand the genre and their music has taught me how to write and perform.”
She always wanted to perform with these artists and now it is happening.
Amanda said fans can expect to feel different emotions when she is on stage performing hits like Amazulu and Separate.
“I sing about love, peace and harmony.
“Jazz concerts are laid back and people can listen and sing along.”
The singer said she believes in what the concert stands for.
“We are living in horrible times, where a woman is killed every day.
“I think artists have enough influence to promote peace in our nation.
“We are the voice of hope and healing.
“Artists can reach a lot of people and use music to make a difference.
“We need to bring back the spirit of ubuntu. That is what the festival is about. Victims of abuse are scared to share their experiences.
“They think we don’t care.”
Amanda said the festival is a platform for artists to take responsibility and speak out about social ills.
“When I get on stage I will be telling my story the best way I know how.
“Let’s all encourage people to tell their stories,” said Amanda.
- Catch the Jazz in July festival at Durban Botanical Gardens next Sunday. Tickets at Computicket range from general access for R290, Golden Circle for R400 and R850 for VIP seats.