Vusi Mahlasela at Starr Hill.

Amber and I saw South African musician Vusi Mahlasela perform at Starr Hill this evening, as a two-day-late birthday present to Amber. Vusi Mahlasela promo photoAs is true for many people, I first became aware of him when he sang back-up vocals on Dave Matthews Band’s “Everyday,” and heard more when I got the Amandla! soundtrack a couple of years ago. It’s clear why he’s being promoted under the nickname “The Voice” — he’s got a clear, powerful, unusual voice that is a real pleasure.

For 90 minutes, he played guitar and sang. Many of the songs were in Zulu and what I assumed to be Afrikaans, though some were in English. Most were apartheid-era protest songs — songs of freedom, strength, and unexpected joy. Between songs, he told stories, all of which were engaging and self-effacingly funny. He’s a heck of a guy, and it was a good show.

Published by Waldo Jaquith

Waldo Jaquith (JAKE-with) is an open government technologist who lives near Char­lottes­­ville, VA, USA. more »