20 years is a long time to be doing anything. Two decades. 7300 days (give or take a few claimed by the odd leap year). That kind of longevity deserves a pat on the back and is exactly how long Oskido’s Kalawa Jazzmee record label has been around.
Oskido is widely regarded as one of the original godfathers of SA house music. There are a few genres that have escaped his midas touch and even fewer artists he hasn’t collaborated or worked with. Oskido has always been at the epicentre of the local music industry and his label has been the vehicle driving countless homegrown musos to success.
It all began with Don Laka, Bruce Sebitlo and ideas man Oskido. Later a joint venture with Jazmee (Mandla Spikiri, Mahoota Sibika and M'jokes) gave birth to the Kalawa Jazmee brand which spurned Boom Shaka as their very first act. The Boom Shaka foursome comprising the late Lebo Mathosa, Thembi Seete, Junior Sokhela and Theo Nhlengethwa, released their first album in 1993. It featured 'It’s About Time', a song which captivated all of South Africa and to this day still holds a special place in people’s hearts.
Despite humble beginnings, the Kalawa Jazmee crew have always managed to uncover raw talent with a unique sound and taken the time to nurture fledgling artists. This is evident with the progression of Mafikizolo, who grew from an initially lukewarm debut into a now multi award winning duo. Kalawa Jazmee have left an indelible mark on and legacy of African music and on the 5th of July they celebrate the 20th anniversary of the label with the mother of all birthday bashes in Durban.
The event features a mammoth line up including Ralf Gum, Monique Bingham, Rocco Rodomal, Vinny Da Vinci, DJ Fresh and Euphonik, Black Motion,Mafikizolo plus a host of other well know international and local talents. 20 years of democracy and 20 years of Kalawa Jazzmee, make you wonder where you've been for the last two decades and marvel at how time flies. This is one magnum opus celebration that is not to be missed!
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