Culture

Congolese singer Gaz Mawete takes the shine at La Cigale concert in Paris

Published

2 weeks ago

October 2, 2024

Congolese music star, Gaz Mawete, was the star of the moment when he gave an electrifying performance at the La Cigale concert in Paris before a sold-out crowd which has further solidified his place as one of Africa’s most dynamic musical talents.

The concert which held on Sunday in the French capital afforded Mawete another opportunity to showcase his immense talent to the world as well as portray African music to the French audience.

The concert was part of Mawete’s ongoing efforts to expand his presence in European and African markets and according to the artiste, he plans to continue performing across Europe while preparing for major African shows.

“Known for his unique fusion of rumba, R&B, and soul, Mawete delivered a night to remember, with fans showing up in large numbers to support the artist,” a French entertainment tabloid wrote after the performance.

Speaking on the event, Mawete said:

“The concert featured several special guests, much to the delight of the audience, and highlighted the deep sense of community within the Congolese music scene. The public came out in full force, and the support from my guest artists was incredibly touching. It was a special night for me.”

One of the night’s highlights was the appearance of fellow Congolese superstar Fally Ipupa, whose presence on stage was a moment of pride for Mawete.

“Fally coming to my concert was an honor. It shows that he appreciates and respects what I do. He’s someone I look up to, like a big brother, and seeing him there filled me with gratitude,” said Mawete.

Mawete also hinted at an upcoming performance at the legendary Martyrs Stadium, one of the most prestigious venues for Congolese artists.

“Performing at the Martyrs Stadium is a dream for any Congolese artist. If the audience shows up, it will prove that all the hard work has been worth it,” Mawete, who recently released a self-titled EP, said.

“I’m so grateful to my fans who have been with me every step of the way. You are my fuel, and without you, I am nothing,” he added.

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Culture

South African tavern owner kills seven, self in deadly mass shooting

Published

1 day ago

October 13, 2024

Isaac Dachen

A South African tavern owner has reportedly killed seven people, including a three-year-old child, in a mass shooting in Gauteng Province, before turning the gun on himself.

The provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Brenda Muridili, who confirmed the incident, said it happened during the early hours of Sunday, October 13, in the Mokokotlong informal settlement and is being investigated by police in Orange Farms.

Muridili said the incident was stoked after one of the victims went to the local tavern to buy alcohol but he found that it was already closed.

“He (the victim) had an altercation with the tavern owner and went back home. It is alleged that the tavern owner followed him home where the family members were still celebrating after lobola negotiations. The tavern owner entered the house and opened fire on the family members.

“He shot and killed seven people including a three-year-old boy (five family members, a neighbour, and a friend).

“Four people survived the shooting, two of them, a 31-year-old and a one-year-old boy were taken to hospital with injuries while a 24-year-old woman and a four-year-old did not have injuries,” Muridili said.

Muridili said the tavern owner then drove back to his home in Evaton where he then turned the gun on himself and shot himself.

‘He was rushed to the hospital but died on arrival. The Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit has registered seven counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and an inquest,” Muridili said.

Culture

South African star Tyla grabs four MTV EMA nominations

Published

2 days ago

October 12, 2024

Isaac Dachen

2024 is definitely a good year for South African “Ampiano” star, Tyla, as she continues to shine on the global stage after receiving four nominations for the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs).

Tyla, who already boasts of an incredible catalogue full of awards, has scooped a Grammy, a Billboard R&B Award, and an MTV Video Music Award (VMA).

She has also received five nominations for the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) and has more opportunities of scooping more awards with her latest nominations.

Tyla’s EMA nominations include Best New Artist, Best Afrobeats Artist, Best R&B Artist and Best African Act, making it her first-ever nomination for the EMAs.

Tyla who spoke on the new nominations, explained she was beyond grateful for the nominations and said it was “a dream come true to be recognised among such incredible artists.”

According to the South African, the “Water’ star has paved the way for African artists on the global stage, proven to be an inspiration for musicians across the continent, and been a key figure among African artists on the global stage.

“Tyla’s recognition in the Best Afrobeats category, in particular, is significant. It reflects the growing popularity of the genre globally, with artists like Burna Boy and Rema also nominated,” the entertainment platform wrote.

The EMAs will take place in Manchester on 10 November and fans can place their votes up until 6 November with Nigerian singer, Ayra Starr, also nominated as “Best New Artist.”