A Sunday in the pre-Gen Z era consisted of laid-back soul and R&B music for the mind, body, and spirit. In truth, it is a religious and secular Sabbath for leisure and reflection, accompanied by music to tranquillize and pacify. Today, lovers of sweet music and good times take over Sundays, a movement in which Saison Sundays finds its fulfilment. On Sunday, April 16, Saison Sundays’ Birthday Episode celebrates one year of community and collaboration supporting the growing alternative R&B/Soul genre.
Saison Sundays was born from the growth of talented self-expression through alternative R&B. It began as a backyard gathering for close friends in 2022. Almost immediately, it evolved into one of Johannesburg’s premier event spaces of alternative R&B talent. It is a live performance event space giving up-and-coming R&B and Alternative performers a residency for their creativity on a semi-consistent basis. Indeed, development and growth are one of the many pillars of Saison Sundays’ founding principles. Thus, a great emphasis on community is placed in every edition. Therefore, the Birthday Edition commemorates the community’s positive influence on art.
Songwriter, performing artist, and co-founder Tom Saison believes in the legacy that the space will leave behind. Nevertheless, a year of showcasing underrepresented talent is a job well done, and Tom doesn’t take that for granted. “Our birthday edition is the realization of alot of hard work and dedication,” he said. “We see Saison Sundays as a medium for all of the artists in this space. We hope and pray we can be a big reason why they make it in this industry.”
Similarly, the space has been a hub for creative collaboration. The Birthday Edition is sponsored by Courvoisier. It is the most awarded cognac house and a believer in unmatched quality that leaves a legacy. Besides, the drink fits Sunday’s celebratory atmosphere. Of course, Saison Sundays is the place where people can foster those celebratory connections. Courvoisier and Saison Sundays have one thing in common: impact. Eventually, they will be synonymous with Sunday’s soulful way of life.
Lovers of the R&B/Alternative music genres can look forward to finding their new favourite song or artist at Saison Sundays. Although small, the team dedicates itself to creating comforting, memorable experiences the way every Sunday should be. “The way we look at Saison Sundays and the impact it can have on the industry is massive,” Tom said about the event’s impact. “That feeling of execution has been addictive for us. To reach this point where we have managed to see our baby hit 1 year old is a milestone that gives us the energy to dream bigger and better.”
After a year of hosting star-studded acts, the event’s upward trajectory is a must-see. Performances from Grammy Award-Winning artist Una Rams, SAMA Award Nominee Naye Ayla, and intercontinental DJ Ponahalo Mojapelo are tough acts to follow. However, Saison Sundays’ quiet confidence might surprise you.
Follow Saison Sundays to stay informed about the space’s exploration of emerging sounds.
