Mail & Guardian
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dorothy masukalatest news & developments

The Portfolio: Siphiwe Mhlambi on Jonas Gwanga, ‘a proper human being’

Siphiwe Mhlambi spent several years photographing his friend Jonas Gwangwa as he performed. Mhlambi spoke to the Mail & Guardian about their relationship

Melvyn Peters and Thandi Klaasens at the famed Rainbow Restaurant and Jazz Club in Pinetown. (All images by Rafs Mayet)

Why we need a South African jazz photography archive

We need more books about South African jazz, focusing on both the verbal and the visual, to fully capture and appreciate the unique ‘river of culture we’ve been bequeathed’

Kwame Nkrumah pictured with his wife Fathia Halim Ritzk. Along with other first ladies, she was the subject of Dorothy Masuka’s song Ghana. (Bettmann/Getty)
Video

The Nkrumahs’ marriage was no match made in heaven

This almost forgotten song, written at a time when many African countries had gained their independence, can provide hope during our era of persistent xenophobia

As a writer, Masuka was capable of creating songs that rendered clear images of black life without ever exploiting her people. Photo: Madelene Cronje

Dorothy Masuka, a rare gift from our ancestors

The golden-voiced singer, activist and author of such iconic songs as ‘Pata Pata’ and ‘Khawuleza’ spoke to Sihle Mthembu a few months ago

Statement threads at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival

Inextricable link between jazz and fashion

Bonded by history as much as the present, the two genres of expression work together effortlessly

‘Her discography is divisive

Simphiwe Dana readies her wings once more

The songstress is hesitantly making her comeback and her treasured audiences hope to see her soar

Singer Dorothy Masuka at 77.

Masuka: ‘You can’t stop me from singing … that’s my life’

Dorothy Masuka has been singing for most of her 77 years – and these days her schedule is busier than ever.

Something old, something new

When it comes to South African music royalty, you won’t find a much more celebrated star than Dorothy Masuka.