Socca headlines In Concert Jazz Under the Stars
Larona Makhaiza | Friday May 2, 2025 06:00
The series of In Concert Jazz Under the Stars is set to be held in Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun at the Cresta Hotels. In Gaborone, the event will be held on May 2, Francistown on May 4 and Maun on May 9-10. In an interview with Arts&Culture, legendary Socca Moruakgomo stated that the series of Jazz events is mainly to celebrate the International Jazz Day, which is normally commemorated on April 30. “We are bringing a beautiful fusion of pure jazz, soul, and local flavour under the open sky to celebrate the International Jazz Day,” he said. As part of the celebrations, Socca Moruakgomo stated that Jazz die-hard fans could expect to be blown away looking at the line-up that has been put up for the series of the event. “We are bringing together some of the best talents in myself, Bhudaza, Amantle Brown and Ndingo Johwa with the lively Berry Heart as the MC and DJ Harry keeping the vibe alive,” he said.
Socca Moruakgomo further stated that they would take the Jazz series a notch up when they bring in another stellar Jazz artist for their Maun event. “We are excited to welcome Stiger Sola, a phenomenal local voice and this just goes to say it’s going to be an unforgettable experience celebrating music, culture, and community across Gaborone, Francistown and Maun,” Socca Moruakgomo said. Providing details why the event is spread across three places, Socca Moruakgomo stated that it is imperative that all people get to have a taste of what Gaborone people always get, as they are always prioritised. “Botswana is rich in culture across all its regions and music should travel to meet the people. Whether it’s in the city lights of Gaborone, the vibrant spirit of Francistown or the laid back beauty of Maun, each location brings special connection,” he said.
Regarding if he has anything up his sleeve for the series of the event, as his performances might be monotonous across these places, Socca Moruakgomo said revellers are in for a ride. “There will definitely be surprises! I’ll be performing some of my classics but also introducing new sounds that can reflect where I am musically today so fans can expect energy, storytelling and maybe even few collaborations with the other artists,” he promised. Meanwhile, Socca Moruakgomo expressed gratitude for bodies like Cresta and Berry Heart to invest in live music, which is overlooked compared to other festivals.