Basadi Women of Jazz

Career Highlights

In 2003 the band released their independently produced debut album Journey Ain't Through. This has set the standard for the band, leading to successful performances both locally and abroad.

They have performed for former President Mandela, and represented South Africa at the Millennium Dome in London where they appeared live on BBC television. Other international performances include appearances for the King & Queen of Sweden, as well as the SA's 10 Years of Freedom Celebrations in Vienna, Stockholm, Slovenia, Slovakia, Pokand and Rwanda. The band also flew SA's flag high during the SA Human Rights Celebrations in Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia.

Other performance highlights include:

• The Black Management Forum
• Government Communicators Awards
• Metro Rail Women's Development Launch
• Women of Sport Banquet
• Sowetan Women's Club
• 2003 Travel & Tourism Banquet
• World Aids Day
• ABSA / Barclays launch

Members

Mabatho Masopha

Founder, Flautist, Lead Vocals & Backing Vocals

Founder and band leader Mabatho Masopha was born into a musical family in Soweto.  She started playing the flute at an early age, her earliest performance being in her local church.  After high school she went to Music College to complete a Music Diploma and later performed in the UK with her College Band. It was in the UK where she recognised the unique quality of an all-female band, and decided that this was something she wanted to take home with her. Back in SA, she worked with a number of bands before becoming fully involved with, and leading Basadi Women of Jazz.

Dineo Masopha

Percussionist and backing vocals

Mabatho's elder sister Dineo studied singing with Marema Raseliso and also later drums and percussion. She received a bursary to study voice training and also attended various African Drum workshop and received lessons from private tutors. The inspiration of sister Mabatho lead to her becoming the percussionist in Basadi Women of Jazz.

Bonnie Stark

Drummer and backing Vocals

Bonnie started playing drums at the age of 13 and was self-taught. Born into a musical family, her mom is a pianist, composer and tutor. After completing high school, she went on to study for her Bsc in Pretoria, but continued with her music on a freelance basis. This is when she joined Basadi Women of Jazz.

Phuti Sepuru

Pianist and Backing Vocals

Born and raised in Gauteng, Phuti started piano lessons at the age of seven. After studying at the National School of Arts one of her piano teachers suggested auditioning for Basadi Women of Jazz, after which she became a permanent member of the band.

Sibongile Gwacela

Bass and backing Vocals

Originally from Durban, Sibongile's passion has always been playing the bass guitar. After playing in church and a number of local bands, she auditioned for Basadi Women of Jazz and never looked back!

Client Feedback

Basadi Women of Jazz was fabulous and so humble!  They really amazed me with their humility. Please convey our appreciation to them, especially Mabatho.
Superintendent Vis Govender, South African Police Service