Basadi Women of Jazz received their highest honor from the University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology (HUFLIT) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The recognition celebrated their years of contribution to music, education, and cultural exchange.
the group’s long experience in music made them respected tutors and true ambassadors of South African sound. they have performed in over 30 countries — including Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Austria.
Basadi represented South Africa at the Millennium Dome in London, appearing live on 22 TV channels, including BBC. they also shared the stage with a 72-piece Danish orchestra during South Africa’s 10 Years of Freedom celebration. their travels have included Egypt, Algeria, and Rwanda. one of their greatest moments was the 2014 Nelson Mandela Exhibition launch in Paris, where they performed alongside former minister Paul Mashatile and former Johannesburg mayor Parks Tau.
Band Members
- Mabatho Masopha – founder, lead singer, and flutist
- Sibongile Gwacela – bassist and backing vocals
- Phuti Sepuru – pianist and backing vocals
- Annie Curtis – drummer and backing vocals
over the years, the band has lost three members: Nomadlozi Spies (bassist), Vangeli Dlamini (the only male member), and Thembi Mtshali (pianist).
Standby and Former Members
Fran Hilton Smith, Lilly Molea, Emily Molatedi, Bonnie Stark, Busi Sibisi, Portia Sibiya, and Nozipho Mguni.
Musical Style
Basadi’s sound is rich and timeless. they draw from the 1960s to modern South African music. their performances blend Afro, Jazz, Blues, and light Pop. the group’s sound has reached important audiences, including the Swedish royal family, Kofi Annan, Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, and Jacob Zuma.
they have also shared stages with major icons such as Hugh Masekela, Letta and Caiphus Semenya, Miriam Makeba, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Brenda Fassie, and many others.
About the Band
“Basadi” means “women” in Sotho. the group began 17 years ago and quickly became one of South Africa’s strongest all-female music groups. they broke barriers in a male-dominated industry, carrying a message of gender equality through their music.
Basadi remains 100% female and continues to show that women can master musical instruments and command the stage. their live shows are known for energy, skill, and emotional connection. this has earned them respect from audiences both at home and abroad.
in 2004, the band released their first and only independent album, Journey Ain’t Through. the album set a high standard and opened doors for many performances. even today, it remains popular among old and new fans.
Corporate and Hallmark Events
- Tsa Basadi Life Style
- Absa/Barclays Launch
- Mudau Air View / Frame Fun Launch
- The Black Management Forum
- National Union of Mine Workers Gala Dinner
- World Aids Day
- Mzantsi International Culinary Festival
- IDC Awards
- 2014 IEC Logo Launch
- Government Communicators Awards
- SAPS Training Women Conference
- Mail and Guardian Award
- Soweto Women’s Club
Basadi Women of Jazz continue to represent South Africa with pride — showing that women can lead, create, and inspire through music.
