Notably the thirst for the popular event was at an all-time peak as the organisers announced the sold-out show a week before the event. By 7:30pm at the venue, there was a long queue which stretched for quite a distance. As time went by, attendants were getting agitated with when the gates will be opened.
Inside the venue, they were met with another harsh reality, because of the high numbers, there was another queue for drinks and food. The delay in getting the show started did not help either but finally, the first act of the day went on stage a few minutes after 8pm.
The locally celebrated duo of Khoisan jumped on stage much to the amusement of the crowd who at this point flocked to the front of the stage with the cameras out to capture the electric performance from what Khoisan is now known to be. Dishing out their hits from their 13 singles catalogue, Khoisan also performed for the first time their yet to be released single, Pelo. According to their manager, Suffocate the single will be officially released in January but judging from the reception it received on the Mascom Live Sessions stage.
Pelo promises to be yet another banger from the youthful duo of Thabang Rasefako and Oratile Kofa. Perhaps one of the highlights of their performance was when they brought another local legendary song sometimes referred to as the second national anthem by social media, Thobane . With a surprise act, Dr Vom climbed on stage with Khoisan to perform his popular song. He once again received a loud cheers and whistles from the crowd who sang along to his hit single. From setting the mood high, Khoisan made way for another youngster, Hanceford Magapatona popularly known as Han C. On his 45-minute set, Han C did not disappoint. The 28-year-old had the crowd, which was mostly the grown folks, on their feet. His “Sedi laaka’ and ‘Sebinki’ songs proved to be the most popular.
For attendants, it was refreshing to see locals match the hype of international acts, proving that local acts also take their craft seriously. But when Mafikizolo went on stage, their years of experience could be spotted a mile away. Although they were the main cause of the event starting later than usual, their professionalism is unmatched.
Their years’ worth of music catalogue also proved why they have remained relevant over the years. With over 26 years since their first professional project ,the Afro pop Kwaito House and Afro Soul group dished out their most popular hits from the different albums across the years coupled with their electric dance move on stage.
Truly, the Mascom Live Sessions was back. Speaking to Showtime, Robin Chivazve an independent coordinator and consultant for the Mascom Live Sessions, he admitted to the glitches especially at the beginning of the show and the show starting late but expressed that in overall the show was a success. Chivazve denied overcrowding explaining that people could move freely around the venue. The Saturday show marked the 52 Mascom Live Sessions show.
