At the end of October, The Playground Braamfontein hosted Kids Love Jazz, arguably one of the hottest events to kick off the festive season. What started as a gathering of jazz heads morphed into a vibrant hub of music, fashion, and culture. Kids Love Jazz is in the custody of NarowBi, an event space that hosts experiential events such as Soundcheck and Party+Market. As the sun set over Johannesburg, a warm glow enveloped the diverse crowd, creating an exciting and inclusive atmosphere. People of all ages and backgrounds came together to celebrate South African jazz in its modern, eclectic form.
From the moment you entered, the air buzzed with the sounds of rhythmic drums, soulful keys, and cheerful conversations. It was more than a concert; it was a living, breathing experience that showcased the unity and diversity of Johannesburg. Trendsetters, seasoned jazz enthusiasts, families, and first-time attendees mingled effortlessly, sharing laughter and dancing to the electrifying beats.
The standout performances embodied the heart of the event. Tebogo J. Mosane, the creative genius behind Amongst The People I Know, delivered a soul-stirring set. His experimental approach and live energy captivated the audience, while a surprise guest keyboardist, Emamkay, brought a fresh, dynamic twist. “I’m always excited to share music that challenges perspectives,” Mosane shared after his performance.
Saxophonist Ofentse Sebula further elevated the night with tracks from his H.O.P.E. album, followed by a sneak peek of his upcoming project, Changing Your Perspective. Sebula’s heartfelt words resonated with the audience as he explained, “Jazz is about breaking barriers, and this project reflects my journey of growth.” Saul Madiope added to the night’s magic, blending jazz with hip-hop and electronic elements, bridging tradition and innovation.
Beyond the music, the event highlighted Johannesburg’s creative spirit. Bold styles and striking accessories showcased the city’s unique flair, and fashion was at the forefront. Attendees came dressed to impress, turning The Playground into a runway of self-expression. It was clear that jazz is more than a genre—it’s a lifestyle, a celebration of individuality and shared passion.
The food stalls added another layer of warmth and community. From sizzling street food to gourmet bites, the aroma of diverse cuisines blended seamlessly with the rhythm of the music. Guests moved between performances, balancing plates of delicious treats while connecting with old and new friends.
As the night progressed, the energy only intensified. Drum solos, piano improvisations, and bass grooves kept the crowd alive. Audience members sang along, danced, and embraced the unifying power of jazz. As a first-time attendee, the event was eye-opening. Seeing such a varied demographic sharing a mutual love for jazz highlighted the genre’s universal appeal. Witnessing so many different people coming together to experience the beautiful event was heartwarming.
Kids Love Jazz proved that South African jazz is as innovative and relevant as ever. By reimagining the genre with modern influences, today’s artists are keeping the legacy alive while making it accessible to younger audiences. As the music faded into the streets of Braamfontein, attendees left with more than memories—they left inspired and connected, knowing they had been part of something truly special.
With events like these, jazz continues to thrive as a cultural bridge, uniting people across generations and backgrounds in celebration of South Africa’s rich musical heritage.
In case you missed it, catch how it all went down in the review video below:
View this post on Instagram
