Joyous Celebration 14 launch

Joyous Celebration singers

Yesterday I attended the launch of Joyous Celebration’s 14th album and upcoming tour at Sandton’s Old Mutual Theatre on the Square. Now, I’m not really one for religion, but I’ll always appreciate good music and, if there’s one thing the JC crew does consistently, is produce AMAZING gospel classics.

And say what you will about Jabulani, Lindelani and Mthunzi, but they sure know a thing or two about picking talent. Just the other day one of those ignant (yes, ignant, not ignorant) commercial music ‘DJ’s’ was wondering why the South African version of Idols doesn’t produce the same talent as American Idol. Here’s one reason: because they aren’t looking in church. As part of the launch, we were treated to a performance by some of the JC ladies and … damn … do they ever have pipes! A truly moving experience. I mean, I think I know the difference between someone who can sing and someone who can sang! and those women delivered. Goosebumps material.

But one of the highlights was when some of the former JC members in attendance were called up on stage. Zandile Nkonyeni, Vicky Vilakazi, Margaret Motsage and Brian Temba showed dem for real. Margaret was magic and Brian … sigh… No words for that man.

The Sowetan has video of their performances HERE.

If you don’t know who Brian is, here’s his vid for ‘Dominoes’