With “The People’s Version”, Constitution Hill and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation hopes to mobilise the citizens of South Africa into action, in support and empowerment of one another.
“It is not the size of the problems we must take into account, but rather our will, the people’s will, to create and manifest solutions, and our preparedness to scale those solutions across our diverse South African communities,” says Dawn Robertson, CEO of Constitution Hill.
Dubbed The Masekela All-Stars, the vocalists on the new version include the legendary Abigail Kubeka and Vusi Mahlasela, with the younger generation of stars represented by Thandiswa Mazwai, Zolani Mahola and J'Something. Bra Hugh’s nephew, Selema Writes, adds a rap that calls on South Africans to take action against gender-based violence.
Graced with the talents of Masekela’s last touring band, Johan Mthethwa, Fana Zulu, Cameron Ward, Godfrey Mgcina and Leeroy Sauls, a horn section from the Marcus Wyatt-led Bombshelter Beast, arranged by Sama-winner Zwai Bala and produced by Grammy Award-winning South African producer JB Arthur, “Thuma Mina – The People’s Version” brings a vibrant, upbeat, can-do twist to Bra Hugh’s original.
The music video includes a host of local heroes who have already heeded the call and selflessly served vulnerable fellow South Africans through the crisis. The video will go out with a practical call to download, share and live the values of the Constitution.
Robertson explains the significance of the “Thuma Mina” call-for-change coming from Constitution Hill: “Constitution Hill serves to champion social cohesion in South Africa. It is the home of the voice of the people and the vessel of our beloved Constitution. The call – “Thuma Mina” – is to encourage our citizens to live the values of our Constitution and come together in the face of the crisis with the strength of the culture of ubuntu. Now more than ever, we need to call out to each other to come together and play our part.”
The project was facilitated by Flame Studios, the recording studio hub currently being built in the ramparts of the historic Old Fort at Constitution Hill. Studio director Lance McCormack explains: “This was the perfect inaugural project for Flame Studios, fulfilling our purpose to give new voice and agency to the people of South Africa while transforming a heavy and foreboding space with the power of music, creativity and passion.”
For more information, click here.
