Set to take place at the Joburg Theatre on 29 and 30 May 2026, The Rebirth of Ubuntu concert promises to be a moving celebration of heritage, storytelling and South Africa’s rich musical legacy.
Curated and produced by renowned guitarist and composer Billy Monama, the fifth edition of the concert arrives under the theme “50 Years of Youth Legacy,” bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated voices for two electrifying nights of music and reflection.
Now backed by headline sponsor Capitec, the production aims to fuse culture, community and youth development through the power of music. This year’s lineup includes platinum-selling icon Lira, the spiritually evocative artistry of Zoë Modiga, soul singer Vusi Nova, internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist Tutu Puoane and Monama himself, all backed by a 20-piece orchestra arranged and conducted by Grammy-winning producer Joe Arthur. Legendary guitarist Jimmy Dludlu will also be honoured as the honorary artist for the evening.
Ahead of the highly anticipated concert, we caught up with Zoë Modiga to talk about legacy, storytelling, youth culture and what audiences can expect from this deeply intentional production.
GLAMOUR: The Rebirth of Ubuntu concert celebrates 50 Years of Youth Legacy. What does this theme mean to you personally?
Zoë Modiga: It means that the youth is being spotlit as change makers in society. To celebrate the youth through legacy music means that the youth has always been a crucial part of legacy making and essentially our society’s heartbeat.
GLAMOUR: Ubuntu is such a powerful and layered concept. How do you plan to bring that spirit of connection and shared humanity to life on stage?
Zoë Modiga: I simply wish to see us in the ways that the music prepared already does.
GLAMOUR: This concert honours South Africa’s musical legends. How have your predecessors shaped your journey as an artist?
Zoë Modiga: I have always been aware I am a part of something bigger. Our cultural icons are where I understand our collective assignment as storytellers from. Their existence has effectively breathed life into my personal work.
GLAMOUR: You’ll be performing alongside an incredible lineup of artists. What excites you most about sharing the stage with this collective?
Zoë Modiga: We will be awakening so much intergenerational remembrance on that stage and I really look forward to being a part of that, with our country’s best talents.
GLAMOUR: How will performing with a 20-piece orchestra elevate or challenge your usual performance style?
Zoë Modiga: I have extensive history performing with big bands and orchestras over the years, so this is a homecoming for me, for sure. Happy to have the honour again.
GLAMOUR: What can audiences expect from your performance?
Zoë Modiga: A remembrance of a cultural custodian and human being whose life and work still carries us through.
GLAMOUR: The concert aims to inspire the next generation. What advice would you give to young artists looking to build meaningful and lasting careers?
Zoë Modiga: Be yourself entirely and carry your fingerprint forward as an important part of our creative ecosystem.
GLAMOUR: In your view, what role does music play in shaping cultural identity and driving social change in South Africa today?
Zoë Modiga: Music is the vehicle for messaging, influencing, reflecting and documenting social change. It is in everything we do and everything we are. It is the pulse of society.
GLAMOUR: Looking back on your own journey, how has your understanding of purpose and artistry evolved over the years?
Zoë Modiga: It’s remained quite faithful. I am here to reflect the times, celebrate the human experience, challenge the status quo, awaken us to our fullest potential and evoke emotion, conversation and social change making.
GLAMOUR: What continues to inspire you to create and perform at this stage in your career?
Zoë Modiga: Music is still the most transformative, magical thing I know. It compels me, it humbles me and inspires me.
GLAMOUR: How do you stay grounded while navigating both industry demands and your personal growth?
Zoë Modiga: I give everything to my work life but I don’t centre it. I am still very much a human being and I make sure to water that, because life’s vitality comes from that.
GLAMOUR: The initiative, supported by Capitec, focuses on community and youth development. How important is it for artists to participate in initiatives that extend beyond entertainment?
Zoë Modiga: Entertainment is only ever a bridge to the real substance the music is carrying over. It’s beautiful that institutions are leaning in to be a part of this.
GLAMOUR: What does it mean for you to be part of a production that blends heritage, storytelling and social impact?
Zoë Modiga: It’s always been the centrepiece of what I’ve always done and what I hope to always do. Probably the single most important part of being a platformed story maker and teller.
Recent stories by:
Thobeka Phanyeko
The Joy Check-In You Need, According to a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Melissa Lainn
Discover Your Personality Colour and Lead Authentically
Wellness Wednesday: This is how you can flourish in quiet bloom
Cosy Up This Winter with Our Features Editor’s Wellness Book Picks
