04 May 2025

Cresta Lodge Gaborone was on Friday transformed into a sanctuary of soulful sounds and swaying crowds, all drawn by the rhythm of saxophones and smooth serenades.

Even more enticing was the powerhouse lineup of renowned artistes, Socca Moruakgomo, Bhuduza Mapefane and Amantle Brown, who turned the night into a living, breathing jazz experience. Opening the evening for the Jazz Under the Stars event was Socca Moruakgomo, who delivered crowd favourites such as Mmankhudu Natla and That’s the Way It Is.  Beyond his vocal prowess, he showcased his flair for musical instrumentation, setting the tone for the night.

Next on stage was Amantle Brown, bringing a fresh, sultry energy that captivated the audience. Known for her R&B sound, she delighted fans with jazz-infused renditions of her hits and commanded the stage, moving closer to the audience, engaging with them intimately and even sharing the spotlight with jazz veteran, John Selolwane.

Bhuduza Mapefane followed, electrifying the crowd with popular tracks, Bo Mapefane and Lekhokhoma. His emotive, show stopping performance had the audience on their feet, singing along with fervor.

At one point, John Selolwane joined him on stage, demonstrating the mastery of a jazz legend and offering the audience a glimpse of how it’s truly done. Revellers hailed the event as a resounding success, with many highlighting Bhuduza and Selolwane’s performances as the evening’s pinnacle.

“I’m glad we came tonight, my husband and I. We wanted a break away from the kids, and we were not disappointed. We had the best time of our lives,” said one fan.

For Jazz Under the Stars, this is just the beginning, said concert organiser and MC, Berry Heart.

“We’ve entered into a partnership with Cresta Lodge, and it’s only going to get bigger from here,” she shared. ENDS