The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music Presents: A Tribute to the Late Musa Manzini
Curated by Talented Musical Director, Mzukulu Mbatha.
The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music at the University of KwaZulu-Natal proudly presents a heartfelt Tribute Concert to the Late Musa Manzini, one of South Africa’s most revered bass guitarists and jazz visionaries. The tribute, curated and directed by talented bassist and UKZN alumnus Mzukulu Mbatha, will take place on Wednesday, 14 May 2025 at 17:30.
The concert pays homage to Musa Manzini (30 May 1971 – 15 May 2023), a pioneering musician known for putting the bass guitar at the forefront of South African jazz. Born in Inanda and later based in Cape Town, Manzini was celebrated for his smooth and sophisticated style, blending African funk, Latin, and contemporary jazz. His critically acclaimed debut album New Reflections (2000) showcased his distinctive sound and became a staple on stations like Kaya FM and Metro FM.
Mzukulu Mbatha, born in Nongoma and now a prominent name in South Africa’s music scene, brings his deep respect for Manzini and his versatile musicality to this tribute. A bassist, composer, arranger, producer, and educator, Mbatha draws from a rich palette of styles including Maskandi, Mbhaqanga, soul, pop, and fusion. Influenced by icons such as Sipho Gumede, Banda Banda, Lucas Senyatso, and his absolute favourite Musa Manzini, Mbatha's work bridges the traditional and the contemporary with masterful ease.
Throughout his career, Mbatha has collaborated with an array of South African legends including Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Zakes Bantwini, Neil Gonsalves, and Mfiliseni Magubane, to name just a few. His own music projects, such as Amathanga Omkakho (2016) and Nomalanga (2017), have showcased his skill in both Maskandi and jazz idioms. He is currently finalizing his much-anticipated third album, which will highlight his jazz artistry.
This tribute promises to be an emotional and inspiring celebration of Musa Manzini’s legacy—his innovative spirit, his musical genius, and his lasting influence on generations of South African musicians.
Event Details:
What: Tribute to the Late Musa Manzini
When: Wednesday, 14 May 2025
Time: 17:30
Where: The Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, UKZN Howard College Campus
Admission: R120, R90 for pensioners and R60 for students with a valid student card. Tickets are cash at the door on the night. The doors open at 17:00.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, memory, and reverence, as we honor a legend through the talents of those he inspired.
