The prominence gained by the Ugu Jazz Festival over the years especially for 2010, might make Ugu start looking for bigger venues around the district to accommodate even larger amounts of people in 2011 as this year's event saw more than 8000 people at the Marburg Sports Ground.
The old sounds of Hugh Masikela took a large number down memory lane and kept others dancing.
This spectacular event has gained momentum over the years now becoming one of the prestigious events in South Africa in the world of entertainment. Acting Senior Communications Manager, Mr Lindani Mzotho said Ugu has worked extremely hard to make this event a success and the people's patriotism has also played a humongous role as this event wouldn't be ranked prestigious without their support. "Compared to last year?s figures, this year?s crowd grew by over 2000 people which is a clear indication that this event has become significant in the entertainment calendar," said Mr Mzotho.
He added that it is inevitable that next year's event will also boost the economy as there will be more accommodation needed and entertainment places for the crowds that have arrived days before the event and also for those who will stay longer after the event to enjoy what the "Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom" has to offer.
The weekend kick started with a warm up session, a youth pre party at St Martins Sports Ground where youngsters partied till the crack of dawn. The massive crowd enjoyed live performances by LVOVO Derrango, Msawawa and the Babes among other artists. These performances were complimented by the sounds of djs Webster, Cyndo and Tira among other KZN's renowned deejays.
Ugu proved its capabilities of hosting a world class event beyond reasonable doubt on Saturday with extremely successful Ugu Jazz Festival which commenced with gospel performances by Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Sifiso Ncwane and Thobekile. This was followed by a jazz line up that dug deep into Africa showcasing what the African continent had to offer in terms of jazz.
The crowd could not get enough of Lira's music when she performed in the early hours of the Music Extravaganza weekend.
The crowds wowed the performances of all artists which consisted of Hugh Masikela, Oliver Mtukudzi, Thandiswa Mazwai, Lira, Theo Kgosinkwe, Freshly Ground, Kunle and Batuka.
These performances were spiced up with local talent coming from Bongi Dube, Madala Kunene, Ntokozo Masinga, Pumla, Tender Mavundla and Vusi. On the decks were Djs Muntu and Mshedys.
The terrible Sunday weather did not dampen the spirits of Maskandi lovers who made it to the grounds to enjoy traditional music by many Maskandi artist which some of them were Phuzekhemisi, Thokozani Langa and Tshabalala Rhythm among others.
The crowd was kept warm by the love of their role models and the stage arts performed by the various groups. "The weather did indeed disappoint us as we anticipated larger groups of people. What is sad is that some of those who already bought tickets missed the show because of the rainy and freezing weather," said Mr Mzotho.
He added that besides the weather hiccup, the event was a great success as also many local Maskandi artists both alive and deceased were honoured at this event. The MEC for Arts and Culture, Sports and Recreation, Ms Weziwe Thusi, on this day emphasised on the importance of celebrating and honouring our musicians while they are still alive. "It is of great significance that musicians profile is done while still alive so that when they move to the next life, their memories are left behind for their legacies to live on. I therefore encourage everyone to buy Maskandi CDs and support the artists," said MEC, Ms Weziwe Thusi.
She concluded by commending Ugu in partnership with various sponsors for putting together a successful event that has earned itself credence in the world of entertainment.
UGU DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY
For more information and media queries contact:
Acting Senior Communications Manager:Lindani Fortune Mzotho
Mobile: : 079 892 5666
Email:Lindani.Mzotho@ugu.org.za