BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE– Because local is lekker!
The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival will see more local artists grace the sixth edition stage, which will be held on August 2–3, 2024.
The Lifestyle Festival was officially launched by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini on Friday, where the First Phase Line-Up was announced under this year’s ethos, “A Return to the African Future.”
It’s worth mentioning that more artists will be unveiled when the Second Phase Line-Up is announced.
The local artists on the line-up are Young Zesh, Country Music Singer Cleopatra, Nomalungelo Dladla, Ziyawa Kazitha, DJ MBO, DJ Wicked, and Tibza. We caught up with some of them and asked how they felt about being on the line-up of one of the leading food and fashion lifestyle franchises.
Some shared with this publication that this would be their first time on the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle stage, while others have graced it before. This is what they had to say.
COUNTRY MUSICIAN CLEOPATRA
This year will be my second time performing at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival. I feel excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to perform at one of the country’s biggest festivals.
My advice to an aspiring artist is to bring the best of you and enjoy every moment. Make your mark with your uniqueness and style, and remember that there can only be one of you at a time like that.
My fans can look forward to the most exciting, mind-blowing performances from me and my wonderful band.
DJ WICKED
This year will be my second time performing at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival. I played there two years ago.
I feel blessed and appreciated for this opportunity. I can advise an aspiring DJ to be just you musically.
My fans can look forward to a great performance where I will dish out sweet tunes to the Honey Pot.
DJ TIBZA
As per always, I’m very excited to be a part of this lovely line-up of the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival.This year marks my second consecutive appearance, as I was there last year as well.
It is always a humbling experience to be recognised for one’s unique musical palate in the local event space. To a greater extent, I think I’ve earned my stripes in the deejaying space, boasting over two decades of delightful sets. I am truly honoured.
It is always such a thrill to play solid grooves for at least 10,000 people from all over the world. If anything, playing at such events undoubtedly solidifies our DJ brands, marking the fact that we are truly international in our trade.
My advice to aspiring artists is to put in the time to perfect their craft and remember that there are no short cuts in this business. Also, forging sustainable relationships with other like-minded friends ensures collective growth. Lastly, being true to your calling is key; in that way, you ensure longevity in this cutthroat industry.
My fans should look out for an electrifying, soulful rendition of House Music. To everyone else, the plea would be just for them to bring an open mind to appreciate good music that isn’t necessarily main stream.
ZIYAWA KAZITHA
It’s my first time as Ziyawa Kazitha, last year I featured on Tlale Makhene’s performance at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival.
It’s a phenomenal moment that humbles me so much to be added to this magnificent platform, a wonderful festival of world status. It’s a matter of staying in your lane and perfecting your craft for recognition at such festivals and events.
What I can advise an aspiring artist is to know who you are, have self-belief, get knowledge, work hard, and perfect your skill.
My fans should look forward to an exciting set that they will never forget, with more music the world has never heard. New vibes are to be delivered to them.
NOMALUNGELO DLADLA
It’s not my first time performing at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival. I had the honour of performing on Luju’s Main Stage in 2021. This year, I’m excited to bring an electrifying, more refined version of myself to the festival.
I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement. Securing this gig at Luju, which is such a vibrant celebration of food, fashion, and culture, feels like a validation of my hard work and artistic growth. I felt incredibly honoured and thrilled. It’s always a joy to be part of such a prestigious event, and I look forward to connecting with my fans and sharing my new music.
My advice to an aspiring artist is to stay true to yourself and your unique sound. Dedicate time to honing your craft, be persistent, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Network with industry professionals, perform as much as you can, and always be open to learning and growing. Take the necessary time to grow yourself in your art and your business. You will have to embody the moving showcase of the art, living as the brand you have created.
My fans can look forward to an electrifying performance filled with new sounds and a deeper connection to my roots. I’ve been exploring and discovering myself both as a singer and a spiritual being, and this will reflect in my music. Expect plenty of SiSwati-infused songs that will get everyone dancing and feeling the vibrant energy of our culture.
