Mxolisi “MXO-UMXOLISI” Lokwe is set to headline the Eastern Cape edition of Different Folks alongside Zamajobe and Paras Sibalukhulu Dlamini at the Guild Theatre on August 14.
Known as ‘The Jazz Issue’ will feature the creative musician and local-born artist MXO-UMXOLISI, formerly known as Mxo, together with Zamajobe and Paras Sibalukhulu Dlamini, as part of the growing Different Folks cultural movement.
Lokwe, an SA cultural curator, art activist, producer and founder/former CEO of the iconic East London Jazz by the Lake, is now performing under the evolving artistic identity MXO-UMXOLISI.
He officially announced the launch of Different Folks, a new national touring cultural platform and creative ecosystem rooted in live music, storytelling, heritage, independent artistry and African creative entrepreneurship.
Lokwe told the Go! on Monday this was more than a concert series, Different Folks represents a broader movement an arts economy “for us, by us”.
“It is connecting music, fashion, wine, books, wellness, culture and independent creative ownership under one growing ecosystem,” Lokwe said.
The tour features an acclaimed lineup including:
Zamajobe
Paras Sibalukhulu Dlamini
Andile Yenana
Bholoja
And an exclusive performance by Lokwe.
He said the movement marked the release season of his new album.
“And a bold new artistic chapter blending soul, jazz, poetry, indigenous storytelling and Maverick expression.
“Audiences can expect: live music, healing frequencies, vinyl culture, contemporary African soul, storytelling, fashion and creative products, wine experiences and intergenerational cultural dialogue.
“The East London edition will feature a specially curated Eastern Cape backing band.
“Emerging artists and bands are also being invited to contend for opening performance slots as part of the platform’s commitment to growing new talent pipelines.
“Since 2019, the vision behind Different Folks has focused on building sustainable cultural infrastructure and independent arts economies outside traditional gatekeeping systems,” Lokwe said.
Speaking about the transition from East London Jazz by the Lake to Different Folks, Lokwe described it as: “An evolution from a festival into a living cultural ecosystem capable of travelling nationally while creating long-term opportunities for artists, collaborators and independent creatives.”
Upcoming tour dates include Johannesburg at Weed Lovers Market on August 7 before heading to KuGompo City on August 14.
Tickets are available through Webtickets and Pick n Pay.
Audiences, artists and collaborators are encouraged to follow Different Folks SA on Instagram and Facebook for updates, lineup announcements and artist opportunities.
