November was packed with incredible events in Johannesburg, each bringing its own unique flavor to the city’s creative vibe. Th&o.’s sold-out One-Man Shows offered fans a closer look at his electrifying sound, while BIRKENSTOCK’s Art & Sole concept store celebrated local art and craftsmanship. DJ Maphorisa’s birthday bash was a lavish affair, bringing Amapiano stars together for a night to remember. Big Zulu’s Mr Somateksi concert took over Carnival City with unforgettable performances, and Lipton’s Play for Summer mixer got everyone in the mood for sunny days ahead. Check out the highlights and visuals from these epic events that made November unforgettable.

TH&O.’S ONE MAN SHOW

Th&o.’s two recent One-Man Shows at Untitled Basement in Braamfontein offered an unforgettable prelude to the release of Emlotheni. These sold-out performances drew fans into an intimate yet electrifying space where the artist unveiled the album’s powerful fusion of African sounds and electronic innovation. With high energy and soulful storytelling, Th&o. delivered a deeply personal experience that left audiences mesmerized. The success of the shows underscores his growing influence in the music industry, as fans were given a rare opportunity to connect with the music in its purest, live form. The overwhelming response not only celebrated Th&o.’s artistry but also set the stage for the album’s impactful debut.

ADIDAS’ JAPAN LANDS AT ARCHIVE

Archive’s Bree Street flagship in Cape Town hosted a vibrant event for fashion and sneaker enthusiasts, featuring music, food, and expert customization insights from acclaimed product designer Tiisetso Molobi, popularly known online as Urban Mosadi. The occasion celebrated adidas’ refreshed take on the Japan Originals silhouettes. Initially crafted for the pinnacle of sports, the Japan returns with a low-profile design that blends vintage aesthetics with a modern edge, aiming to inspire a new wave of street style expression.

BIRKENSTOCK’S “ART & SOLE” CONCEPT STORE

BIRKENSTOCK celebrates 250 years of shoemaking tradition with the launch of its Art & Sole concept store at 44 on Stanley, Johannesburg. This immersive 280-square-meter space honors the brand’s orthopedic and cultural heritage while showcasing South African artistry through collaborations with talents like Mpho Vackier, Naledi Modupi, and Mandla Thabethe. Visitors can explore the brand’s iconic craftsmanship through exhibits like the Hourglass archive and the traveling Walk This Way installation, while enjoying personalized experiences such as laser-engraved customizations and Fair Trade coffee. Open until December 16, Art & Sole is a unique tribute to BIRKENSTOCK’s enduring legacy.

GRAHAM CONTEMPORARY’S “BRAVE NEW WORLD” EXHIBITION

Graham Contemporary has unveiled its captivating new gallery space in the heart of Hyde Park Corner, offering art enthusiasts a serene escape into the world of contemporary creativity. Marking the launch is the spring group show, Brave New World, a celebration of love, courage, and human connection. Featuring works by Marc Standing, Kpe Innocent, Gabrielle Raaff, and others, the exhibition invites viewers to explore bold expressions of intimacy and artistry. Visit Graham Contemporary to experience a thoughtfully curated collection that redefines the art of connection and expression.

Take a look at the experience from #LAMag’s Selloane’s eyes:

DJ MAPHORISA’S BIRTHDAY SOIREE

DJ Maphorisa celebrated his 37th birthday on November 14, 2024, with an opulent “All Black” soirée at Pharoah Motors, Johannesburg, attended by South Africa’s music royalty, including Black Coffee, Kabza De Small, DJ Zinhle, and Major League DJz. Marked by luxury and style, Maphorisa made a grand entrance in a McLaren 600LT, with his red Gusheshe adorned in white roses stealing the spotlight. The night featured unforgettable performances by Black Coffee, Kabza De Small, Focalistic, and more, delivering electrifying Amapiano beats. The celebration cemented Maphorisa’s legacy as a trailblazer uniting the industry and its stars.

BIG ZULU’S “MR SOMATEKISI” CONCERT

Big Zulu hosted an electrifying Mr Somateksi show on Saturday, 16 November, at a sold-out Carnival City, presented by Inkabi Records and Thikko Events. The star-studded event featured performances by Lwah Ndlunkulu, DJ Zinhle, Nkosazana Daughter, Gatsheni, Master KG, and Inkabi Nation, creating an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. Big Zulu’s heartfelt performance, including a touching duet with his daughter, paid tribute to his humble beginnings as a taxi driver, with stage visuals and outfits reflecting resilience and strength. The night also highlighted the importance of supporting emerging talent, with a special focus on community and collaboration, making it a powerful showcase of South African music.

LIPTON’S “PLAY FOR SUMMER” MIXER

The Lipton Play For Summer campaign was recently unveiled at a star-studded media mixer that saw taste makers, media personalities, content creators and influencers get a taste of sunshine. Speaking on the campaign Lipton Brand Manager, Nompumelelo Zwane commented “Summer is one of those special times in the year where South Africans come alive and friends and family will be coming together, embracing the sunshine. This campaign aims to connect with those fun and playful consumers and reward them for their support with the ultimate summer of giveaways. I want to encourage our consumers to enter and get a taste of sunshine”. 

Take a look at the experience from #LAMag’s Coco Brown’s eyes:

YUMBS AND ZWAYETOVEN’S “SOUL BUDDIES” LISTENING SESSION

Producers Yumbs and Zwayetoven have teamed up to release their highly anticipated joint album, Soul Buddies. The album features 21 meticulously crafted tracks and is set to define the sound of the upcoming festive season, highlighting South Africa’s finest talents, including Mawhoo, Mthunzi, Ami Faku, Nasty C, Shekhinah, and the iconic DBN Gogo on the standout track Maqondisa, alongside Scotts Maphuma and Uncool MC. At an exclusive media listening session last night, attendees got a preview of select tracks from the album. One particularly memorable moment was the playback of With You, a groundbreaking collaboration between renowned rapper Nasty C and R&B star Shekhinah, marking their debut in the Amapiano genre. The track received a standing ovation, signaling its potential to become a fan favorite. Overall, the album has been described as a masterpiece, with each listener expected to find their own standout track.

MAFTOWN HEIGHTS 2024

The 2024 Maftown Heights festival has solidified its reputation as one of South Africa’s top music events, offering an unforgettable tribute to Motswako and hip-hop culture. Thousands of fans gathered at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown, transforming Johannesburg into the epicenter of South African music and entertainment for one electrifying evening. From the opening act to the final performance, Maftown Heights demonstrated why it remains a must-attend event. Featuring a star-studded lineup with show-stopping acts like Khuli Chana & The Motswako Republic, The NuTswako Nation with Maglera Doe Boy, K.O., Sjava, and a grand finale by Cassper Nyovest, the festival was a vibrant display of talent, energy, and national pride. Khuli Chana also teased a major partnership with Swedish beauty and wellness brand Oriflame, set to launch in 2025.

Featured & Gallery Images : Supplied