Recording a decade's journey
Lucy Kgweetsi | Wednesday November 19, 2025 06:24
The evening carried the calm precision expected from a major recording session, yet it retained the warmth and communal atmosphere that has long defined the group’s relationship with its audience.
What stood out most was the consistency musically, organisationally and in the overall tone of the night.
The event ran smoothly, with no visible interruptions or missteps, creating a setting where the focus remained firmly on the music and the milestone being honoured.
The line-up included Kobamelo Leboro, Shinkie Mochawacha, Vusi Botshelo, Doba Andreck and Boitshepo Lobakeng.
Each stepped into the programme seamlessly, contributing to a collective experience rather than a showcase of individual personalities.
Due to the fact that the event was structured as a recording, the performances were measured and intentional, guided by pacing that allowed the music to settle rather than rush from moment to moment.
The atmosphere remained attentive and receptive, with the audience absorbing the unfolding scenes quietly but with clear appreciation.
One of the defining elements of the night was the unveiling of new members, a highlight that had been anticipated since the announcement of the anniversary project. The introductions of Sesame Gabosekwe, Boka Ratsebe, Botho Garekwe and Vusi Mtokufa were met with visible enthusiasm.
The moment didn’t feel like an add-on, it felt integrated into the story being told. The arrivals blended smoothly into the recording process, a sign of considered preparation and thoughtful timing by the organisers.
Their presence suggested a forward-facing vision, balancing the weight of a decade-long legacy with the openness needed for the next chapter.
The GICC setting contributed to the event’s polished feel. The visuals, staging and sound carried a sense of maturity that matched the anniversary’s significance.
Though live recordings can sometimes feel segmented or disrupted by technical demands, this particular session maintained steady flow.
Transitions were smooth, cues were clear, and the ensemble’s coordination reflected the experience gained over 10 years of collective work.
What made the evening especially notable was the unity amongst the performers, the choir and the audience. Even without dramatic peaks or high-energy crowd reactions, typical elements often seen in concerts, the event held a strong sense of engagement.
The audience understood the nature of the gathering and responded with the quiet attentiveness that recording environments require.
The result was a performance space where the music felt carefully held, not hurried through or overshadowed by production details. Overall, the “Decade of Grace” live recording served as a fitting marker of We Must Praise’s journey. It demonstrated stability, growth and a refined sense of purpose.
With the addition of new voices and a recording now underway, the night positioned the ensemble not as a group looking back nostalgically, but as one stepping steadily into a new season with clarity and confidence.