By Sitha Maliwa:
In a stirring tribute to one of South Africa’s greatest musical icons, more than 100 jazz musicians – from revered legends to promising newcomers – will converge in Newtown for a historic photoshoot and jam session marking the 100th birthday of saxophonist Jeremiah Morolong “Kippie” Moeketsi.
The event, which will take place on Saturday, 20 September 2025 at the Market Theatre Precinct, aims to capture the enduring spirit of South African jazz and pay homage to a man whose music shaped generations.
Moeketsi, born in George Goch, Johannesburg, on 27 July 1925, was a formidable force in South Africa’s musical landscape until his passing on 27 April 1983. His storied career bridged the transition from kwela to modern jazz, as he played in the Harlem Swingsters, contributed to the country’s first LP by Black musicians (Jazz Epistles, Verse One), starred in the groundbreaking King Kong musical, and collaborated with jazz luminaries such as Abdullah Ibrahim. With over 50 recordings to his name, his influence remains deeply felt among musicians and jazz lovers alike.
To honour this towering legacy, internationally acclaimed photographer Siphiwe Mhlambi will capture a group portrait at the historic Market Theatre, surrounding the statue of Kippie in what is being hailed as South Africa’s own “Great Day in Harlem.”
“In 1958, American photographer Art Kane assembled more than 50 jazz musicians in Harlem for an iconic image, usually called ‘A Great Day in Harlem’, that captured the American jazz community of that era: everybody from Dizzy Gillespie to Thelonius Monk. I hope our photoshoot for Kippie won’t only be a fitting tribute to a towering musical presence, but will create a similarly iconic image of our jazz landscape today – the seasoned veterans and the youngsters, men and women, who are shaping the unique sounds of today’s South African jazz,” said Mhlambi.
Adding depth to the musical side of the tribute, saxophonist and composer Khaya Mahlangu will serve as music director, while broadcaster Nothemba Madumo – host of a jazz show on Radio702 and CapeTalk – brings her curatorial expertise and passion for jazz heritage through her company 4everJazz, which has long been devoted to promoting jazz culture and preserving its legacy.
The event is made possible in partnership with the Market Theatre Foundation, custodians of the renowned Kippies Jazz Club. The foundation has joined forces with the creative team to ensure that the spirit of Kippie lives on, not only in music but also in visual culture.
To extend the event’s impact beyond the day, merchandise featuring the group portrait will be created, with part of the proceeds going to the Johnny Mekoa School of Music. The funds will be used to support music students with access to instruments and tutoring – ensuring that the next generation of jazz talent can thrive.
The day’s festivities will include the photoshoot from midday until early afternoon, followed by a free jam session from 3 pm to 5 pm inside the Market Theatre. The session will focus on Kippie’s compositions, reinterpreted by today’s artists, offering audiences a fresh yet reverent take on the master’s work.
Entry to the jam session is free, but registration is essential. Attendees can book tickets at www.quicket.co.za. – @NewsSA_Online
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