Durban - Musician Sipho Hotstix Mabuse has urged people of KwaZulu-Natal, especially in Durban to come in their numbers to the Umlazi Jazz Picnic because a portion of the gate takings will be donated to flood victims.
In a short video, Mabuse encouraged people to put their money where their mouths are and urged them to support the event, which will be held at Umlazi’s King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.
“On this coming Sunday I will be performing at Umlazi jazz festival and we will also be remembering those who died during floods so put your money where your mouth is so that we donate for the victims,” said Mabuse in a 33-second clip.
The event also features other high-profile artists like Judith Sephuma who replaced Lira who could no longer come after suffering a severe stroke while in Germany.
According to a statement released by the family last week, her condition had deteriorated to a point where she was unable to talk.
The event organiser Nje Buthelezi told the Daily News on Wednesday that they were all systems go for the event, adding that Lira’s illness was a blow to the event because many people had shown interest in it because they wanted to see her on stage.
He said after learning about Lira’s illness he quickly secured Judith Sephuma to come and the deal was been finalised.
“We are saddened that Lira will no longer be with us at the event and we wish her a speedy recovery.
“Her absence is a blow to us but with our we have we know people will enjoy themselves,” said Buthelezi.
He also encouraged people to support the event because a portion of the money made through the event will be donated to the flood victims.
Buthelezi said he had thought of postponing the event in honour of the flood victims but later felt that he should use the event to raise funds and donate to the flood victims.
He said there will be a moment of silence in honour of the victims and to show sympathy to families and relatives of those who perished during the devastating floods.
Apart from Mabuse and Sephuma other big names on the line-up include Joe Nina, Naima K, Mondli Ngcobo, maskandi great Igcokama Elisha, legendary Dj Muntu and Dj Tira.
Also featured are Metro FM dj Msizi Shembe, Gagasi FM dj Felix Hlophe, Mandla Mdletshe of Ukhozi FM and dj king David Mashabela from Radio 2000.
Daily News