Master of Zulu rhythm and soul
 
CONCERT: JOHNNY CLEGG 
REVIEWED BY LEXI LANDSMAN
WATCHING Johnny Clegg perform is a multifaceted experience: there is the obvious entertainment factor of watching a man who has an enthralling vocal range and an uncanny grasp of Zulu dance and language. 
But then there is the added layer of hearing the consummate storyteller and qualified anthropologist describe in detail the immense political, cultural and social ramifications behind his song.
It is this unique fusion, coupled with his awe-inspiring talent, that packed theatres when the renowned singer-songwriter -— dubbed “the white Zulu” -— performed at the Palais Theatre in Melbourne on May 25 and at the Sydney State Theatre on May 26.
Clegg performed his Australasia tour with a talented band, including Andy Innes, Trevor Donjeany, Barry Van Zyl, Dan Shout and last, but certainly not least, Mandisa Dlanga as his backup vocalist. At both concerts, audience members appeared mesmerised by the soulful artist, with many running to the front of the stage towards the closing act, ignoring attempts by security to hold them back.
Never mind that Clegg is in his 50s -— his seemingly unending energy is a testament to his undying love for his music.¬†In the opening act, South African crossover flautist Wouter Kellerman joked that there is a strong belief that “the white man can’t dance”. Well here’s to Clegg for proving the myth wrong.
Clegg and his band performed a much-loved mixture of old and new songs including Impi, Sky Blue, Jongosi (Young Ox), Asimbonanga and Kilimanjaro, which all echoed the highs and lows of South Africa, and the resilience of its citizens. He interspersed songs with Zulu dance routines and storytelling.
A memorable moment of the concert was when Clegg introduced Bullets for Bafazana with a colourful tale of the band’s road manager and also Zulu warrior (whom the song is based on).¬†Later, surprising the audience, Bafazana’s son Sabelo Qoma delivered high-energy Zulu dances with Clegg.
For the South African expats, there was something warm, nostalgic and all-engrossing watching Clegg and his longstanding backup singer Dlanga perform anthems of his youth.¬†The show offered a slice of South Africa with its perpetual paradox — a country rich with culture, yet burdened with its history.¬†Clegg’s unique niche of crossover music offers an entertainment experience, with a history lesson and heavy dose of culture merged into one powerful act.
 
Photo: Johnny Clegg and his backup singer Mandisa Dlanga.      Photo by: Ingrid Shakenovsky
comments