Sandile Masilela, a rising star from the vibrant city of Pretoria, South Africa, is making a significant impact in the music industry with his distinctive blend of African jazz and fusion sounds. Driven by a profound calling to be a musician and armed with over 18 years of experience, Masilela has carved out a unique space for himself, drawing inspiration from both local and international musical influences. In this interview, we delve into Masilela’s musical journey, his remarkable albums, successful singles, and upcoming live performances.
A Musical Calling
For Masilela, music is more than just a career; it’s a calling. Fueled by his deep passion for music and shaped by his diverse experiences, he embarked on a journey to share his talent with the world. From an early age, Masilela knew that his purpose in life was to pursue a fulfilling career as a musician.
Influences that Shape the Sound: Masilela’s musical influences are as diverse as they are profound. From the legendary Louis Armstrong to the renowned Philip Tabane, the skilled D’gary, and the iconic Hugh Masekela, these artists have played a pivotal role in shaping Masilela’s musical style and sound.
A Fusion of Genres
Masilela’s sound can be best described as a fusion of African jazz and collaborative sounds from various genres. This innovative blend allows him to incorporate different musical elements into his compositions, resulting in a captivating and distinct sound that resonates deeply with audiences.
Exploring His Albums
Masilela’s discography boasts two notable albums that have garnered recognition and acclaim. His latest release, “Mbazo Jazz,” made its debut in June 2021 and earned nominations in two categories at the esteemed 6th Mzansi Jazz Awards. This album showcases Masilela’s mastery of African jazz, delighting listeners with its rich melodies and infectious rhythms. Additionally, the album “White Festival,” released in August 2022, represents a fusion collaborative project that draws inspiration from a diverse range of styles, serving as influential and versatile event theme music.
Singles and Success
One of Masilela’s notable achievements came when his jazz song, “Mbazo,” was featured as a film score in Andrian Burrell’s “Living” at Stanford University in America. This achievement not only highlights Masilela’s exceptional talent but also demonstrates his ability to captivate audiences beyond the realm of music itself.
Recording and Production
Masilela’s albums were meticulously recorded and produced at RoChela Studio, a renowned South African studio celebrated for its commitment to delivering high-quality recordings and productions. This collaboration has allowed Masilela to bring his artistic vision to life and present his music with the utmost professionalism.
Upcoming Live Performances
Fans can look forward to witnessing Masilela’s captivating performances at The Joburg Beer Fest on June 17th. This highly anticipated event promises an unforgettable experience, featuring an array of local and international bottled beer, craft beer, fruity ciders, sorghum beer, and a delightful variety of food trucks. Amidst this exciting atmosphere, Sandile Masilela, alongside Amapiano DJs and renowned South African artists, will take the stage, delivering a mesmerizing live performance that showcases his musical prowess.
Sandile Masilela’s musical journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his craft. With his unique blend of African jazz and fusion sounds, Masilela continues to captivate audiences with his exceptional talent and versatility. From his acclaimed albums to his successful singles and upcoming live performances, Masilela’s musical career is poised for continued growth and recognition.
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