Her voice, as pure as a South African diamond, is ensconced in the ebony soul of the region, of her native Soweto, and of her Zulu heritage. Her entire life, and that of her late mother, the legendary jazz singer, Thandi Klaasen, have been a tribute to the liberating power of the female voice in song. Now nearly seventy years of age, this dignified diva, who artfully blends jazz, pop and the legacy of ‘Mama Africa’ Makeba, is set to join the Festival’s 40th anniversary in a city that fully embraced her decades ago.

Lorraine Klaasen, whose meteoric rise was forged through sheer perseverance, won the 2013 Juno’s “World Music Album of the year” Award for her album, A Tribute to Miriam Makeba. Beacons of joy, she and her mother were reputed to be among Nelson Mandela’s favourite artists, singing of the resilience of Black communities under apartheid without ever seeking the limelight or glitz. Their organic, danceable music rallied Caribbean nations and won over the Americas, Europe and Mexico.

Deeply concerned about the plight of South Africa’s black population, Lorraine Klaasen and fellow musician, producer and trusted associate, Mongezi Ntaka, joined forces on the album Ukubonga. The songs are expressions of compassion for the hardships overcome by artists from the townships, who were heavily impacted by the racist apartheid regime; we must never forget them, and preserve their memories with a sense of gratitude. Well established in her adopted country of Canada, yet ever proud of her roots, the singer continues to serve as a generous voice for those back in her homeland.

Each of Lorraine Klaasen’s concerts becomes a celebration in which everyone is welcome, like a call from an Africa on the move. Adorned with an elegant turban and bangles, this undisputed ‘Queen of South African Music’ radiates effortless feminine grace. Light on her feet and passionate about her art, she communicates with her audience through Southern African languages—Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa, Lingala—as well as English and French. Don’t miss this opportunity to soak up her eternally optimistic songs, as jazzy as fine champagne.