In a groundbreaking performance at the SunBet Arena, celebrated South African singer-songwriter Msaki marked a decade of artistic brilliance with her Camagu in Symphony concert. The event was a historic milestone, cementing Msaki as the first female artist in South Africa to headline a concert of such scale alongside a full orchestra.
The evening unfolded as a tapestry of sound and sentiment, encapsulating Msaki’s extraordinary musical journey. The arena was filled to capacity, with an enthralled audience spellbound from the opening note. Fans sang along to every song, their voices rising in unison with Msaki’s to create a symphony of harmony that reverberated throughout the venue. The performance evoked a kaleidoscope of emotions, with attendees moved to tears during poignant moments, while upbeat numbers had many dancing in the aisles.
Audience reactions underscored the evening’s profound impact. Describing the concert as “a spiritual experience,” one attendee praised Msaki’s artistry as “the embodiment of soul.” Another reflected, “Witnessing Msaki make history tonight was indescribable. This night will forever be etched in my heart.”
The concert featured orchestral renditions of Msaki’s most beloved works, spanning her debut EP Nal’Ithemba, the critically acclaimed album Zaneliza, and her innovative collaborations across folk, electronic dance, and amapiano genres. Joining Msaki on stage were some of South Africa’s most distinguished artists, including Sun-El Musician, Black Motion, TRESOR, Simmy, and ANATII, each infusing the performance with their distinctive flair.
Social media was abuzz with reactions from mesmerised fans. One attendee, tweeting as @GugsOutside, captured the night’s essence: “Tonight, Msaki crafted a magical musical experience. I even sat two seats away from Mam Letta Mbulu, saw Revolution perform live for the first time, and discovered that Kayrendasoul hails from Ngqamakwe. Enkosi, Msaki, for an unforgettable show.”
The concert’s title, Camagu—an isiXhosa expression of gratitude—embodied the spirit of the evening. Addressing the audience, Msaki said, “This night is about saying ‘Camagu’ – thank you. Thank you to those who have supported me, stood by me, and allowed me to grow into the artist I am today.”
The event’s dress code, ‘tuxedos and trainers’, reflected a seamless blend of sophistication and vibrancy, mirroring the interplay of orchestral grandeur and dynamic South African rhythms.
Presented by Standard Bank and Windhoek, and supported by SAMPRA, SABC, Arena Holdings, Nandos Michael Kelly, VOLVO, and Karl Lagerfeld, the concert was produced by Bassline and ALTBLK. It was more than a performance—it was a cultural landmark, celebrating music’s unifying power.
For those who missed this momentous occasion, one sentiment resounded across the audience: Camagu in Symphony was an unforgettable experience and a triumph of creativity and community.
