In honour of Women’s Month, music lovers are in for a soulful treat as Ntsika Ngxanga, member of the award-winning a cappella group The Soil, makes his return to live performances.
In an event to be hosted in Hemingways Mall on Saturday evening, Ngxanga promises an evening of music and meaning to celebrate both his personal journey and the strength of women.
The theme of his show — A Place Called Ngoma — aims to affirm women, reminding them of their power, dignity and right to choose love over harm.
The Afro-soul sensation will be sharing the stage with The Soil members Zawadi Yamungu, Theo “Songstress” Matshoba, and Thandikhaya Magayiyana, popularly known as Joliza Bhacasoul.
Ngxanga, who has been in the music business for more than a decade, said this show was more about healing than entertainment.
The show will open with actors portraying his forefathers, who had guided him to create A Place Called Ngoma.
The aim is to create a sacred space where music becomes medicine, where people are affirmed, healed and celebrated
“A Place Called Ngoma is more than a show, it’s a spiritual homecoming,” he said.
“The aim is to create a sacred space where music becomes medicine, where people are affirmed, healed and celebrated.
“It’s a moment where we return to the roots of who we are, through the power of sound, storytelling and communal connection.
“The Eastern Cape, and East London in particular, holds deep cultural significance.
“It is a province rich in heritage, rhythm and raw artistic brilliance, so hosting it here is both a tribute to that spirit and a way of planting something sacred within a community that understands music not just as entertainment, but as a way of life,” Ngxanga said.
“Camagu is a song that holds a special place in my heart; it acknowledges our forefathers and expresses deep gratitude.”
This leg of the show will feature unreleased songs of his sophomore album, as well as never previously heard renditions of beloved songs.
“My last experience in East London was beautiful, the energy was magnetic, and the love I received reminded me of why we do this.
“The experience at the Umtiza Fest planted the seed for me to return with something even more powerful.
“The spirit, people, warmth, the big singalongs ... there is a rare authenticity in the Eastern Cape, a sense that you are not just performing to an audience, but to a family that has been waiting for you.
“Every time I perform, I feel a channel open as if I am not the one singing but being sung through.”
Matshoba said she was thrilled to be part of a show that would honour women.
“The show is a spiritual production and those are my vibes, and I am looking forward to being a part of it,” she said.
“It is beautiful that Ntsika invited us to be part of the show in this Women’s Month. I feel like the world is now opening to women.
“As the only woman in the group, it means a lot for me to be a woman in a man’s world showcasing my talent and spirituality.
“All the songs we do are special for our people. Our supporters can expect healing sessions — we will pray, dance and laugh.”
Daily Dispatch
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