Msaki’s Camagu In Symphony

I am such a lucky girl when it comes to performances. I really am. On Thursday night, the SunBet Arena was pulsating with the heartbeat of South African music, with Msaki’s music to be specific. She gathered all her friends and gave us a spectacle and a half.

Camagu

Camagu is a Xhosa term that means to bless, appease, praise, honor, or let it be. The naming of the concert gave us an indication of what’s to come. Msaki’s “Camagu in Symphony: 10 Years of Gratitude” wasn’t just a concert; it was a transcendent experience. We sang, we cried and we danced all in one night. This was a journey through a decade of musical brilliance and a celebration of Msaki.

As the orchestra’s first notes echoed through the arena, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. The stage, bathed in a celestial glow, was set for a night of pure magic. And then, she appeared – Msaki in a black and white isiXhosa inspired outfit, the enigmatic and soulful artist, ready to captivate hearts and minds.

Sit Back, and Hear Me Out

The night was split into two sets; the first set was soulful and mesmerizing. Her voice was a blend of power and delicacy, it soared through the venue, evoking a range of emotions from the audience. From the moment she opened her mouth to sing, it was goosebumps after goosebumps. She poured her heart out with every song. In the first set of the show she was joined by Tubatsi, Muneyi, Dr Nduduzo, Thesis ZA. Just to name a few. Me and my friends experienced a teary moment when Msaki and Muneyi performed Nal’themba. The two powerful voices had me sitting still and remembering the first time I heard this song. It was a powerful symphony between them, the choir and the orchestra.

Get up, and Dance

And then came the second half of the set, cause you know South Africans and dance music. The first song that came on was Love, Colour, Spin with Mobi Dixon. Mobi’s energy was so lit, from then on we hardly sat down. Next on stage was Tresor, who also had us on our feet singing Sondela from the top of our voices. Revolution DJ’s soon hit the stage and they performed Spring Tides with Msaki followed by an old-school tribal house set that gave us nostalgia. Other artists who were part of this set were Black Motion, Sun El Musician, Simmy, Da Capo, and KaryenderSoul. And then there as Anatii. The song with Msaki, his outfit, his set. He served us hip hop and had amazing stage presence.

#Msaki10

As the audience sang along to every song and every word, it was clear that Msaki’s music had become a huge part of the South African music. The whole setlist was a carefully curated journey through Msaki’s discography, from the soulful music to the dance category. It was enchanting to witness her body of work in one night. As the night drew to a close, I was left with a sense of awe and gratitude. Msaki’s 10-year journey had been a remarkable one, and her “Camagu in Symphony” concert was a fitting tribute to her talent and dedication. Three days later and I’m still in awe of her work.

Were you there? Share your thoughts and memories of Msaki’s “Camagu in Symphony” in the comments below.