Ahead of his South African concerts in the near future
THE PLAYLIST
Mamadou Kelly: I have often wondered what draws my son to Mamadou Kelly’s Djamila. But then again, his body says it all: a rhythmic foot stomp here (to ride out the groove), an approximation of the call-and-response there. It is richly textured music that allows you to get lost in the arrangements. (KS)
Lianne la Havas: I listen to a wide variety of music, usually from periods before “current music” such as the 1990s. I am constantly on the hunt for artists that aren’t normally played on mainstream radio stations. I recently discovered Lianne la Havas, who I’m currently obsessed with and have on repeat, as well as Anderson Paak, Yuna and Ruth B. I prefer listening to music that tells a story but, more importantly, conveys a message that I support. (AS)
J-Cole: I am currently listening to J-Cole because he’s coming to South Africa really soon and because he is one of my favourite rappers of all time. He speaks about matters of race and black pride and it encourages me. (ZS)
THE READING LIST
How Crab Lost His Head and Other Animal Tales from Africa: This is a collection of 19 legends from various cultural groups on the continent by Nick Greaves and illustrator David du Plessis. Masande’s imagination lights up as we slowly go through these tales, re-enacting the voices of various characters. It might not make up for izinganekwane zika gogo (grandma’s stories), but it does tide him over. (KS)
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry: I have just finished reading Mildred D Taylor’s book, which is 40 years old this year. (AS)
I Write What I Like: I just got introduced to Steve Biko. *cue wide-eyed emoticon* (ZS)