Jazz Meets Tradition: Dumza Maswana’s ‘Umngqungqo’ concert hits the stage this October

Get ready to feel every beat and every note — because when jazz maestro Dumza Maswana takes the stage on 18 October 2025 at the Market Theatre, it’s more than a concert. It’s a spiritual revival.

Known for the deep, soul-stirring resonance of his baritone voice, Maswana blends jazz, soul, spirituality, and African tradition into powerful sonic experiences that heal, inspire, and uplift. His honesty in songwriting and raw musical talent are what set him apart as he doesn’t just perform music, but lives it.

His upcoming show, Umngqungqo — named after the traditional Xhosa gathering of song and dance — promises a night of rhythm, heritage, and heart.

In an exclusive interview with Africa Jamz FM News, Maswana opens up about the journey behind Umngqungqo, the personal reflections that shaped it, and the message he hopes will linger with audiences long after the final note fades.

The heart behind Umngqungqo

Umngqungqo embodies rhythm, flow, and unity — and for Dumza, this concert is deeply personal. He shares why now felt like the perfect moment to bring this vision to life.

“This concert means the world to me. Umngqungqo speaks to rhythm, movement, and togetherness — and that’s exactly what this journey has been: slow at times, but always growing, always inspiring. It carries something emotional, spiritual, and deeply musical for me. When I first imagined this in 2023, it was just a small dream. I simply wanted to perform this music with an orchestra. I didn’t realize then that it would grow beyond me and become a movement,” said Dumza.

The spirit behind this year’s Umngqungqo

In many African cultures, music and dance go beyond entertainment — they serve as powerful forms of storytelling and healing. Dumza shares how Umngqungqo captures that very spirit.

“⁠Umngqungqo is exactly that and more — it carries the spirit of storytelling, healing, and preservation. Through song, dance, and language, we are keeping our culture alive while also celebrating it. It’s not only about the music; it’s about expression in every form — even fashion. Each year, we choose a theme that highlights this spirit. Last year, it was Embrace Your Heritage, and this year, it’s African Royalty. Every African fashion expression is unique, and we want to see that beauty come alive in the room and on the red carpet,” said Dumza.

Bringing the village spirit to life on stage

The show creates a space for unity through music and movement. Dumza shares the emotions and conversations he hopes will be ignited in the audience throughout the experience.

“I hope this show reminds people of who they are and inspires them to proudly claim their African identity. I want the audience to sing along to the songs they may have overheard as children but never fully paid attention to. And for those who have never been to the villages, I want the experience to transport them — to feel the spirit, the community, and the pride of where we come from,” said Dumza.

A journey back to roots

Dumza talks about what part of his own story and heritage he carries with him when he steps onto the stage at the Market Theatre.

“When I step onto that stage, I carry my grandmother and the women of my village with me. They were the ones who taught me how to sing. For a time, we thought their songs and sounds were ‘backward,’ and many of us moved on to things that felt modern, drifting away from our roots. But that is my story — a call to return to ourselves, to reflect, and to celebrate who we are. I also want us to see our mothers and grandmothers differently — not only as caregivers, but as institutions of wisdom. Without mine, I wouldn’t be standing where I am today,” said Dumza.

A new beginning for first-time attendees

As the conversation wraps up, Dumza shares what he hopes will resonate with those attending Umngqungqo for the first time, especially those unfamiliar with African traditional concerts.

“⁠Even if it’s their first time, I hope they leave feeling transformed — carrying with them the spirit of togetherness and the joy of our heritage. I also want to add that on the 8th of October, we start in PE, and it’s our third annual event on this side,” said Dumza.

You can now purchase tickets for Umngqungqo at www.webtickets.co.za.

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