Taste of Africa serves up a day for soulful classics

Laone Choeunyane | Tuesday August 25, 2026 10:20

The guests embraced the denim-and-white dress code, giving the event a polished visual identity that matched the relaxed atmosphere and elegant setting.

The music remained firmly rooted in the classics, with disc jockeys (DJs) keeping the crowd engaged through a steady selection of familiar ballads and superclassics.

Local favourites, including former RB2 presenter DJ Obza, known for his Sunday ballad sets, shared the decks with South African DJs Koketso Molefe, better known as Kokie Molf, and DJ Kgantsho.

Osi Lashani, Lawry-T, DJ Mo-Gee, JazzyPete and Charles Matlou further strengthened the lineup, contributing to a soundtrack that encouraged the audience to sing along rather than simply listen.

Nostalgia was central to the experience, but the atmosphere never became subdued.

The music created a steady rhythm throughout the day, with guests moving between the dance floor, wine-tasting area and food stalls while enjoying the company of fellow ballad enthusiasts.

Music was only part of the offering. Tickets, priced at P400, included a complimentary bottle of wine, while a dedicated wine-tasting experience gave guests an opportunity to sample different selections. Cheese and biltong stalls added to the food and beverage experience, providing an easy complement to the afternoon’s leisurely pace.

Sponsors and partners including Avani, Sunbet Botswana, Coca-Cola, Amarula and Btv supported the event, which maintained a polished and cohesive feel throughout.

The combination of classic music, wine, food and the coordinated dress code created an atmosphere that felt social without being overwhelming. Guests could settle into the music, catch up with friends, sample wine or simply take in the surroundings.

What stood out most was the consistency of the programme. There were no prolonged gaps between performances or selections, allowing the atmosphere to build naturally from the afternoon into the evening. The DJs stayed true to the soul-ballad brief while responding to an audience that clearly knew and appreciated the music.

By the time the event drew to a close, Saturday Ballads had delivered a day centred on the enduring appeal of classic soul music.

For an audience drawn to slower, richer sounds, the Denim and White edition offered an opportunity to revisit familiar songs while enjoying good food, wine and company in a relaxed setting.

More than simply a music event, the gathering demonstrated the continued appetite for experiences that bring together nostalgia, style and social connection, with the music providing the common thread throughout the day.