I rocked up at Duma FM grounds at 8pm a little sleep deprived expecting to wait a full four hours or so before being serenaded by the soothing sounds of Billy Ocean, the Trinidadian-born English recording artist who had a string of Rand B international pop hits in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
I was surprised to discover that the on and off again annual Hamptons Festival now in its 5th Edition was already in full swing. Ringing in the clear lit sky was a soul ballad that had the crowd on its feet.
Although upon arrival my ears were attuned to the sounds of Colour of Love, I mistakenly assumed it was a prerecording and was pleasantly surprised to discover that the immaculately suited up Billy Ocean was already stirring the hearts of many music lovers with his trendy hits on stage.
Mystery lady, No woman no cry and Suddenly, were followed by Loverboy, the Going gets Tough and the melodious African Queen belted out in swift succession as the audience crowed.
He was always going to be a difficult act to follow but local Jazz MaestroNdingo Johwa Goledzwa sung his elderly lungs out belting out Nkabile and Maya whilst another regional giant Budazza tried to keep the momentum going with Bamantelance, Moshoeshoe and Dumela.
The beautiful Nnunu Ramogotsi sang Dance, Lerulas Latsie, Ke mo ratile nna and Ma Solly as she allowed local audiences a sneek preview into her about to be released album.
Notwithstanding the frustration created by the initial cancellation and postponement, the Jazz Festival definitely lived up to its billing. An irate attendee felt that local companies need to come to the party and sponsor local acts to continue building Botswana’s profile abroad.
“This concert in Botswana is supported by SA Express and SA Tourism. Botswana Government and local companies should have been the headline sponsors,” fumed Kgositsile Mariri, a local entrepreneur. He said, “Air Botswana should have flown with the guys here. It is embarrassing. We should be smart.”
