LUUKHANYO's star shines at MTN Bushfire Festival
In a blend of music and culture, LUUKHANYO, Cape Town's rising star, recently lit up the MTN Bushfire Festival stage in Eswatini. Alongside his band, The Hii ROLLERS, LUUKHANYO delivered a performance that will be etched in memory, showcasing his blend of R&B, hip-hop, funk, and jazz.
The MTN Bushfire Festival, known for its vibrant mix of art and culture, was the perfect stage for LUUKHANYO's dynamic presence. "MTN Bushfire was electric,” the artist said. “The energy we received from the audience was amazing, and to experience it at that scale was truly incredible. That show will always have a special place in my memory bank."
LUUKHANYO’s performance was a big success, largely enhanced by the striking ensembles from the label Lukhanyo Mdingi. While there was no formal collaboration between the designer and LUUKHANYO, the impact of Mdingi’s designs on LUUKHANYO's visual presentation was undeniable. The garments, characterised by a blend of heritage and modernity, elevated the narrative of his set, making the music not just heard but visually experienced.
"I’ve been admiring Lukhanyo Mdingi’s work from a distance for a while now, and to have had the honour to wear his designs for my first international show? Wild!” LUUKHANYO said. “I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m excited."
Cape Town photographer and videographer James Cameron Heron, who also produced LUUKHANYO’s debut music video, ‘Hii ROLLER’, captured the essence of the ensembles and the spirit of the performances in a shoot at The Lounge at Quiet Life Co in Cape Town. The creative collaboration between Heron and LUUKHANYO showcased the synergy between his musical innovation and the refined aesthetics of Mdingi’s designs.
Heron believes LUUKHANYO has made remarkable strides. “I remember working with him on the ‘Hii ROLLER’ music video, and I was already really impressed with his passion and drive for artistic creation. He wanted to shoot anything and everything, each meticulously planned with distinct angles and concepts,” Heron said.
“He has evolved into a remarkably assured artist, controlling a profound understanding of his distinctive sound and its sensory and visual essence,” he said, adding that collaborating with an artist who possesses such clarity is an “exceptionally gratifying experience".
As the buzz around LUUKHANYO’s debut album grows, his fanbase eagerly anticipates the unique blend of sounds that define his music. His unique storytelling, combined with the impact of his stage presence, promises a multi-layered experience for his listeners.
LUUKHANYO’s appearance at the MTN Bushfire Festival underscored the interplay between music and fashion. This intersection not only showcased LUUKHANYO’s talent but also highlighted how fashion can amplify music, creating an immersive experience that resonates with the audience. As LUUKHANYO continues to rise, the collaboration of music and style in his performances is set to captivate audiences worldwide.
Images by James Cameron Heron
Words by Alexander Brand for Letterhead