Lorraine Klaasen & Mongezi Ntaka – New Record “Ukubonga (Gratitude)”
Lorraine Klaasen and Mongezi Ntaka have just released an album of music Ukubonga (Gratitude), a collection of songs from the Southern Africa’s Township music songbook. It’s beautiful music with a message of life!
“Lorraine Klaasen, the daughter of legendary South African Jazz singer Thandie Klaasen, is one of the few South African artists who have preserved the classic sound of Township Music, which continues to be the most distinctive sound to come out of South Africa. Born and raised in Soweto, and now based in London, Ontario, Lorraine has electrified audiences worldwide with her dynamic stage presence and showmanship.” – lorraineklaasen.com
“Mongezi Chris Ntaka is a South African guitarist, composer, arranger, musical director and producer based in Washington, DC. His guitar playing incorporates several Southern African music styles including Kwela, Marabi, Mbaqanga, Mbira, African Jazz and Township music. Mongezi’s musical career started in Johannesburg in the early 1980s through his family contacts at Dorkay House in Johannesburg.” – embassyculturalhouse.ca
Lorraine and Mongezi talk with Baruch about the music, and the mission of this record to celebrate life and to impart knowledge of African cultures and traditions, so that people can know their roots. Be on the lookout for Lorraine and Mongezi offering concerts and workshops in your area!
Music by: Lorraine Klaasen & Mongezi Ntaka
Podcast: Download (Duration: 59:57 — 137.7MB)
I will surely be looking for the new release of Ukubonga! The music is amazing and timeless and the artists are clearly singing with such Joy!
My main “take away” is “Joy is the antidote for despair”.