Highlights from a weekend of unforgettable jazz

IF YOU weren't at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz this past weekend, you missed out on great vibes and spectacular music.

- NOMATHAMSANQA SITHATHU

ZIMBABWEAN-born singer, songwriter and music producer Berita had the crowd on their feet. | TIMOTHY BERNARD Independent Newspapers

(TIMOTHY BERNARD Independent Newspapers)

For three days, the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg came alive with music lovers cheering, singing and soaking up the performances.

With four stages, there was plenty of choice, though the toughest part was deciding where to be when two favourites clashed.

Beyond the music, the hospitality stood out, with extras like a Coca-Cola photo booth where you could get your name or favourite phrase printed on a can.

Everywhere you looked, people were smiling, taking photos and enjoying themselves. It was more than a festival, it was a celebration of jazz music.

One of the weekend’s standout moments came from Amanda Black. Her set was both uplifting and emotional - a reminder of how powerful music can be in bringing people together.

Classics like Kahle created a wave of joy, while her performance of Amazulu closed her slot on a high, with everyone on their feet, voices raised in unison as they sang along.