Nelson Mandela – The Song Lives On is a public concert that marries the well-known sound of Madiba’s voice with live music and spoken word.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Music is a great blessing. It has the power to elevate and liberate us. It sets people free to dream. It can unite us to sing with one voice. Such is the value of music.”

On Sunday, 22 January, forming part of the Oude Libertas Summer Season, Nkabinde and Klassen will present the production with new compositions as well as existing songs with an audio-visual presentation.

Suitable for all ages, the concert carries history lessons from South Africa’s past while inspiring South Africans to work together to create a future of possibilities.

“This will be just as exciting for the audience as it will be for us, as together we re-examine the words and ideals of an icon,” says Nkabinde.

Along with Klassen, Nkabinde has invited three Cape Town-based artists to collaborate with them at the concert: Mark Fransman, a saxophonist, pianist, flautist, vocalist, composer, and music educator; Nomfundo Xaluva, a new voice on the music scene who is also a pianist, composer, and music educator; and Bulelwa Basse, a performance poet, language facilitator, speaker, and community builder.

The result of this collaboration is a mixture of different musical styles, well-thought out musical compositions and arrangements, expertly glued together by moments of improvisation. This five-piece outfit will deliver an experience that will remain in the hearts and minds of many, for years to come.

Klassen shares his sentiments on the project, “I am excited about it. It’s got meaning and purpose. We are honouring the values and humanitarian ideals of a man who deserves to be honoured in this manner.”

In the development of the content of this project, interaction and counsel from the Nelson Mandela Foundation, as well as the UWC Robben Island Mayibuye Archives, has ensured a holistic way forward. Renowned photographers, Siphiwe Mhlambi and Mark Wessels, have provided images that have added depth to this production.

Tickets cost R180 and can be purchased here. 

For more information, visit www.thefamousidea.co.za. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.