Basadi Women of Jazz

Location: Based in Johannesburg

Biography

BASADI (Sotho word for Women) Women of Jazz definitely proves that sista’s are doing it for themselves! This successful five-piece women band has made solid inrows in the South African music scene. Ever since its inception in the late-90s, the ladies have earned respect from the musical fraternity for their performances and compositions, making a strong statement as talented female musicians both locally and abroad

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. The Band was also honoured by receiving the awards in recognition of their excellent performance at Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology – HUFLIT.

Basadi has shared the stage with South African music giants like Hugh Masekela, Letta & Caiphus Semenya, Miriam Makeba, Judith Sephuma, the late Brenda Fassie, Lebo Mathosa, among many others. The group performed live on the former Felicia show on ETV, Africa Desk on SABC 2, Morning live, Motswako and Afro Cafe.

Basadi's style is diverse, rich and varied, taking listeners through South Arican favourites such as Phata-Phata, to Jazz standards, Blues and even Rock influences; all brought together in jazz. Their music has been said to inspire dignitaries to dance and stamp their feet!

International Noteworthy Performances

Basadi Women of Jazz has performed extensively on foreign soil. International performance highlights include:

Two prestigious events in Paris for the opening of the NELSON MANDELA EXHIBITION in May 2013
Performing with a 72-piece Orchestra in Denmark
Appearances for the King & Queen of Sweden
SA's 10 Years of Freedom Celebrations in Vienna, Stockholm, Slovenia, Slovakia, Pokand and Rwanda
SA Human Rights Celebrations in Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia.
Represented South Africa at the Millennium Dome in London where they appeared live on BBC television

Noteworthy Performances

One of Basadi Women of Jazz's absolute highlights has been performing for former President Mandela. Other local highlights include performing at:

2013 Marula Festival
The Black Management Forum
SAB Awards
Shell SA
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

Al went well, thank you to you and the band for that! I enjoyed working with you and I am sure we will be doing business again in the future!
Monique Möller, PMG Events

Photo Gallery

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Sound Clips

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Downloads

BUDGET INDICATOR

Below budget range is merely a guide; you will receive an exact quote based on your unique event details upon enquiring

Budget Range for Basadi Women of Jazz is

R18000 - R30000

BOOKING ENQUIRY

Submit a booking enquiry directly with Basadi Women of Jazz, and the Artist or their manager / representative will be in touch with you soon!

Should you be unsure about which acts to enquire with, you can choose to SEND GIGSTER YOUR EVENT DETAILS and we will forward your enquiry to up to 5 suitable acts.