TC FEST 2025 : Linda Sikhakhane

"Through his searching, saxophonist, composer and Blue Note artist Linda Sikhakhane epitomises the vibrant evolution of South Africa’s jazz landscape. The Umlazi-born and KwaNongoma descendant musician establishes a conversation between the contemporary and traditional, homegrown and global while steeping his ruminations on the personal, societal, spiritual and cultural in rich tones. Owing inspiration to greats such as John Coltrane, Bheki Mseleku, Winston Mankunku Ngozi, Nduduzo Makhathini, Sikhakhane’s style is informed by the interplay between the metropolitan and the folkloric. His offerings deftly align these sonic influences with theoretical concepts drawn from both hereditary customs and academic abstraction".

Sikhakhane is a 2x SAMA and Metro Fm awards nominee for Best Jazz Album with three albums under his name, and was named the Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz in 2022. His Performance at this year's fest is an offering from his latest release on the Blue Note record label Iladi. This work serves as a testament to Linda’s artistic evolution, blending his imaginative style with compositions rich in cultural significance. This is Sikhakhane’s debut project with Blue Note & Universal Music Group Africa, following an important accolade as the Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz in 2022 which gave birth to Iladi. Join Linda as he offers a musical expression of gratitude, inviting you to share in a communal experience that is both introspective and celebratory.

Band personnel: 

Linda Sikhakhane - tenor saxophone 

Brathew van Schalkwyk - piano 

Nick Ford - double bass 

Damian Kamineth - drums