Name: Risenga Makondo – Cultural Jazz
Start: 2026-06-13T19:30:00+01:00
End: 2026-06-13T22:30:00+01:00
Location: Verdict Jazz

$Risenga Makondo \u2013 Cultural Jazz$

“An electrifying performance that bridges continents, blending African tradition with global sounds in a way that feels both timeless and urgent.”
Risenga Makondo presents Cultural Jazz, a vibrant and deeply rooted expression of music and movement inspired by the traditions of Southern Africa. At its core is the inseparable relationship between dance and music—where rhythm is not only heard, but embodied. In Venda, Tsonga, and Pedi cultures, performance is fluid and inclusive: musicians become dancers, and dancers become musicians, creating a shared, living experience.
Born in the rural north of South Africa near Venda, Risenga grew up as a shepherd with little access to formal education. He began playing music for survival at the age of fourteen. Coming of age during Apartheid, he witnessed the harsh realities faced by young Black men in his community, particularly during the South African Border War. Determined to forge a different path, he moved to Johannesburg and settled in Soweto, where reggae music became both his voice and his education.
Returning to traditional African music, Risenga expanded his sound through collaboration with musicians from across the country. In 1987, he joined Amampondo, touring internationally and developing his distinctive style. Risenga has also collaborated with saxophonist Alan Skidmore, performing at iconic venues such as Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club and contributing to projects including Skidmore’s Ubizo, which features members of Amampondo.
While studying classical music, Risenga realised the importance of preserving his improvisational and cultural roots. He later pursued music therapy at the University of Surrey, combining performance with a passion for community work. Alongside solo performances and work with the BBC, he has performed internationally, including at the WOMAD Festival.
Cultural Jazz reflects this journey. Rooted in African traditional music, it flows across borders, embracing influences from Western folk, European jazz, drum and bass, amapiano, and rock. Like the sea, it connects cultures while remaining grounded in its origins.
From Ha-Mashau village in Venda to global stages, Risenga Makondo creates performances that invite every audience member to feel, move, and belong.