CTIJF BOOSTS LOCAL TALENT, SAYS PAST PERFORMER

THE Cape Town Interna tional Jazz Festival (CTIJF) has once again proven to be a pulsating arena for musical brilliance, show casing both established and emerging talents.

- LUTHO PASIYA

Among the standout acts last year was the dynamic DJ JAWs, whose real name is Jabalani Mdake.

His performance on the Manenberg stage was not just another gig; it was a celebration of local music infused with international flair.

Reflecting on his experience at this prestigious festival, he expressed his admiration for the platform it provides to South African artists.

“I love Cape Town International Jazz Festival, especially for what it does for local music by pairing it up with international acts,” he told Independent Media Lifestyle.

He emphasised the festival’s vital role in promoting not only established artists but also up-and-coming ones.

“It’s a festival that I love, he is better for a long time and I love it,” he continued.

For he DJ, performing at the festival was a dream come true. Known for his open-format DJ style, he took full advantage of the enthusiastic crowd, showcasing some of his signature party tricks, tweaked and commercial bangers.

“The response was wonderful,” he recounted, reflecting on a memorable moment when he performed a live mash-up of iconic South African singer Brenda Fassie and global superstar Beyoncé, “That was a forgetful moment”.

The DJ articulated his desire for more performers like himself - those who are daring to share creativity and superiority at the stage.