Title: Tutu Puoane: Crafting Musical Magic from Lebo Mashile’s Poetry
Tutu Puoane, the proudly South African singer, artist, and actor based in Belgium, showcases her consistent mastery in her latest album, Wrapped in Rhythm Vol 1, featuring the evocative poetry of South African cultural activist Lebo Mashile.
Originally from the Pretoria township of Mamelodi, Puoane’s artistic journey began at Fuba, offering an alternative training ground for artists barred from whites-only institutions during apartheid. Under the guidance of Geoff Mapaya, a renowned scholar of indigenous African music, she pursued further studies in Europe, where she met her husband and lifelong collaborator, pianist Ewout Pierreux.
Puoane’s musical prowess shines through in her award-winning discography, including Quiet Now (2009), Song (2007), and Breathe (2012). While she resists being pigeonholed solely as a jazz singer, her vocal finesse has undeniably shaped the contemporary jazz landscape in South Africa, with her music becoming a staple in university jazz vocal programs.
In Wrapped In Rhythm, Puoane breathes life into Mashile’s poignant poetry from the award-winning anthology In a Ribbon of Rhythm, delving into themes of identity, otherness, and the complexities of South Africa’s societal fabric. The collaboration between Mashile and Puoane not only results in an exquisite album but also serves as a testament to the profound impact of black women’s artistry in self-expression and cultural reflection.
In a conversation with Nomfundo Xaluva, Puoane delves into the transformative journey of adapting poetry into music, highlighting the collaborative process with her core rhythm section—Clemens van der Feen, Dre Pallemaerts, and Ewout Pierreux. Emphasizing the importance of sensitivity to lyrics, Puoane reflects on infusing each composition with depth and meaning, including a nod to her roots by incorporating verses in Sepedi.
Drawing inspiration from Mashile’s dynamic performances, Puoane employs breathing techniques to embody the text fully, whether on stage or in the recording studio. Despite the intimate setting of the studio, Puoane navigates the challenge of channeling energy and connection with her audience, striving to convey the same passion and emotion through her music.
Reflecting on the impact of Mashile’s artistry, Puoane finds hope and rejuvenation in the power of storytelling, witnessing a resurgence of young poets and artists reshaping the South African narrative. Through Mashile’s generosity and artistic vision, Puoane rediscovers the transformative potential of her own craft, breathing new life into her music and finding renewed optimism for the future of her homeland.
With Wrapped in Rhythm, Tutu Puoane not only delivers a captivating musical experience but also pays homage to the rich tapestry of South African poetry, reaffirming the enduring legacy of black women’s voices in shaping cultural discourse and artistic expression.
