Colorful dressing display and cool music at Sandton Rooftop at the Jazzy Joburg Market

By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor

This year’s Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has come and gone, and those that were fortunate to afford a rather not inexpensive ticket selling for R1050 for a day pass and R1950 weekend pass, I am sure they have something to speak about to friends and family who did not attend the event. And yes, the tickets were not that inexpensive, but the experience was wonderful with both local and international artists doing their best to entertain and intellectually stimulate the curiosities of those that attended the event.

I attended the Friday leg of the concert and reserved Saturday to reboot. However this was in preparation for the Jazzy Joburg Market, which this year, unlike the previous years, took place on a new venue, the expansive Sandton Mall Rooftop. And also unlike the previous years when it commenced a day before the concert itself, this time it took place a day after on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

The crowd that turned up was notably smaller than the previous iterations of the market, but the experience was quite exhilarating for those that attended. To star with we were spoilt for choice when it came to items on sale, all locally created by talented local designers and sold by local entrepreneurs. In the mid of listening, and even dancing to music performed by a selection of artists, such as Brenda Mtambo and others that gave their all, I squeezed in time to tour the stalls that sold from home made food to designer clothes. Indeed the items that were on display just confirmed how a creative nation South Africa is as various labels sold exquisite creations.

My eye was particularly attracted to one such label going by the name Voetsek. This is generally a rude word, but what this label produces is anything but far from rude as their beanies, hats and jackets are quality items. The label hails from Soweto, just like several that I managed to view.

And as usual the people came dressed in their colourful Sunday best, and the weather was also generous on that day, giving us an opportunity to enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon right on the top of Sandton City. It was indeed a wonderful experience to be there as these pictures on CITYLIFE/ARTS attest to.

However it is the music that got the crowd waked up, brining the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival to a close on Sunday, the 29th of September 2024, on a relaxed by high and enjoyable note. The market provided a space for families to enjoy a relaxed afternoon, with good music, food, community and musician Sakhile Moleshe as the MC for the day. A perfect way to close off Heritage month! 

Local SMMEs were at the heart of the market, with attendees enthusiastically supporting the wide range of artisanal goods, fashion, and food on offer. These SMMEs were crafted and nurtured by the Joburg Tourism Company (arts and crafts) and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (food and drinks), creating a vibrant showcase of local talent and entrepreneurship.

The live performances were a highlight, with Mtambo captivating the crowd with her vocals and star power. Beyond Vocals followed, delivering powerful harmonies and old school classics which added to the day’s laid-back atmosphere. The market ended in an electrifying performance by Morda, leaving the audience dancing and singing along.

Speaking on the success of the event, Mantwa Chinoamadi, CEO of the Joy of Jazz, said, “The Jazzy Joburg Market is a celebration of the local community, where music, culture, and business intersect. This year was particularly special as we ended the festival with a calm, laid back setting after two spectacular nights of jazz music. It’s the perfect finale to a weekend of world-class performances.”

It may not have attracted as many people as the previous occasion, but what one felt at the event is that The Jazzy Joburg Market has indeed grown into a must-attend event for the city’s jazz community and beyond. It offers a unique experience that blends live music with local entrepreneurship. I for one enjoyed myself and felt it was a great way of rounding up the Heritage month festivities that have been taking place throughout the country during September.