By Zee:
Oh babes, let me just spill… last weekend at the Thaba Eco Hotel, I was looking hot as usual, sipping on something dangerously delicious, and soaking in vibes so electric you could feel them in your soul. The Ignite Her Soul X-Perience? Honey, it was Everything. And the queen of the day? None other than the legendary, untouchable Mam’Letta Mbulu. Yes, the roots lady herself – 82 years young and still serving looks, wisdom, and absolute icon energy.
The moment I stepped in, the room was dripping in elegance: earthy harvest tables that made me want to Instagram the whole thing and a colour palette screaming “grown, rich, classy, and unstoppable.” But babes, let’s be real – the décor was cute, but the music? The music had me clutching my pearls and my champagne glass.
Brenda Mtambo’s voice gave me chills, Judith Sephuma had the crowd crying and swooning at the same time, and Nokukhanya Dlamini? Child, she owned that stage like she was born to do it. And the poetry by Thuto Gaasenwe… honey, it was silk, fire, and soul all rolled into one. With Titi Luzipo directing this magic, it was basically a masterclass in female artistry.
And Mam’Letta herself? Girl. She glowed. Every word she spoke was full of history, sass, and heart. “Being recognised in this way at my age… is truly humbling,” she said, and I swear, the entire room melted like chocolate in the sun. She doesn’t just sing, she teaches, inspires, and reminds us all we can conquer the world -while looking fabulous, of course.
Mantwa Chinoamadi, CEO of T-Musicman, summed it up: it wasn’t just a tribute – it was about opening doors, inspiring artists, and uplifting communities. And honey, everyone left feeling like they could take on the world in stilettos or sneakers.
Now, in case you missed it (and why would you?), do not despair. The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival is coming, and trust me, you will want to be there. Mark your calendars for 26, 27, and 28 September 2025 at the Sandton International Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster from R1 350 – get them before they vanish, darlings.
So, to all my ladies (and gents) reading this: keep your eyes on Mam’Letta. Her soul, her story, and her style? Untouchable. And me? I’ll be back at the next event, spilling tea, snapping pics, and serving vibes as only Zee can.
Stay tuned, loves. You know I always bring the inside scoop. –@NewsSA_Online
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