THE IsiXhosa Music Festival aims to make sure that Xhosa is celebrated and not forgotten.
The festival will be held on Saturday, 29 April at St George's Park Cricket Stadium in Gqberha, Eastern Cape.
George Meko, the event's spokesman, told SunBuzz that the celebration will be headlined by artists such as Ringo Madlingozi, Nathi Mankayi, Amanda Black, 047, Max Hoba, as well as Ntsika Ngxanga.
“This event was inspired by the fact that Xhosa is a widely spoken language in the Eastern Cape and is the language of the late Nelson Mandela. So, we need to make sure that we showcase the language, the music, and the culture during the event.
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“All artists who sing in IsiXhosa will perform and the food served will be Xhosa cuisine. All participants have been asked to wear their Xhosa clothing. We encourage everyone to come and participate. This is not just for Xhosa speaking people, but every culture and race is invited to come and learn,” said George.
The festival will officially start on Wednesday, 29 March. Award-winning singer Ringo and the presenter of Umhlobo Wenene FM, Putco Mafani, will host a workshop.
“Our favourite local artists will be giving workshops on the music business and how to make money with your craft. Ringo will teach young musicians how to grow, nurture and create the craft of music.
“He has been in the industry for over 30 years and is a household name. Therefore, we think he is the perfect person to lead this workshop," he said.
Part of the proceeds will be donated after the festival.
“We will take 5% of the proceeds and donate to a good cause. We haven’t found one yet, but we decided that it should be woman-based or at least youth-led,” he said.
