The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino is set to host a special once-off show on 25 March for Vusi Mahlasela’s “When You Come Back” 20th Anniversary Celebration.
The man who is so well known to South African music fans that they simply call him “The Voice” has entertained audiences with his stage shows and recordings for two decades, having released seven further albums after his iconic debut on the Shifty Records label in 1992.
To kick off a year of gigs in celebration of this career milestone, Vusi will be doing an exclusive career retrospective performance at the Lyric.
A powerful and compelling stage presence, Vusi is adored both at home and abroad – where he tours extensively. Vusi remains a humble man who still resides in his beloved community of Mamelodi, outside Pretoria, Tshwane.
The singer, songwriter, poet and activist released his popular debut album “When You Come Back” in 1992.He was then asked to perform at Nelson Mandela’s inauguration in 1994. He has released eight albums over the past two decades, notching up gold and platinum status, as well as several SAMA awards celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics, his sound is a tasty fusion of folk, world, blues and soul.
Today, he is an international star, who has come to the attention of American audiences through his contract with the ATO Records label of long-time admirer and fellow South African, Dave Matthews.
Mahlasela enjoys enormous international popularity, and has recently performed with the likes of Paul Simon, Bela Fleck and folk sensation Ray Lamontagne.
His most recent album ‘Say Africa’ was recorded in the US and produced by legendary American Blues icon Taj Mahal. The album was released in late 2010 by Sony Music Africa and subsequently nominated for a South African Music Award in 2011. Vusi’s unique body of work has garnered multiple sales, several music awards and widespread critical acclaim, firmly establishing him as a star of contemporary South African music.
Don’t miss this rare chance to see a singer whom Nobel Laureate Nadine Gordimer describes as “A National Treasure, who sings as a bird does; in total response to being alive.”
*The show takes place on 25 March at The Lyric Theatre at 20:30.
Tickets cost between R140 – R250. To avoid disappointment book now through Computicket or at The Lyric Theatre box office on 011 248 5000.
