BOOK REVIEW: Dolly Rathebe - Queen of African Jazz, Blues and Mbaqanga by Nokuthula Mazibuko Msimang

"Dolly Rathebe - Queen of African Jazz, Blues & Mbaqanga" by Nokuthula Mazibuko Msimang vividly captures the multifaceted life of a remarkable woman. The biography beautifully weaves together the threads of Dolly Rathebe's journey as a cover girl, actress, model, lover, and shebeen Queen across Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, and Mabopane. Msimang skillfully paints a tapestry of the vibrant arts and pop culture of 1950s South Africa, showcasing the resilience and trailblazing spirit of a black woman who defied societal norms to become a model and film star. This book is a captivating exploration of Rathebe's pioneering role in an era where such achievements were not the norm for black individuals, providing a valuable glimpse into a transformative period in history.
In a captivating narrative, Msimang skillfully guides readers through the vibrant tapestry of Dolly Rathebe's life. Drawing on the voices of friends, colleagues, arts writers, and music historians, the biography illuminates Rathebe's profound impact on the pop culture landscape of the 1950s, particularly during the iconic Drum era. Her influence was so pervasive that the term "Double Dolly" or "The Dolly" became synonymous with everything beautiful and splendid. Msimang sheds light on Rathebe's intriguing relationships, ranging from politicians and bishops to gangsters, artists, and white arts patrons, providing a nuanced portrait of a woman whose charisma and talent transcended societal boundaries.

Msimang's meticulous curation unveils a fascinating chapter in Dolly Rathebe's life, highlighting how Marah Louw orchestrated a truce between the iconic South African jazz figures Miriam Makeba and Dolly Rathebe. Louw's ingenious approach involved locking the two artists in a bedroom during a house party, providing them with an opportunity to resolve their concerns. The unexpected outcome was laughter emanating from the room over an hour later, symbolizing the reconciliation between the two jazz legends. The narrative also adds a touch of humor as Jonas Gwangwa hastily departed, avoiding any potential witnessing of a confrontation, considering Dolly Rathebe's reputation as the shebeen Queen.

Comments

  1. Nontlantla DondoloFebruary 6, 2024 at 7:22 AM

    Beautiful, clean, clear writing. My favorite kind to read.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousFebruary 6, 2024 at 7:34 AM

    Oh my goodness!!!! This is a brilliant review! Thank you. An honour to be given an opportunity to tell Mam Dolly’s story🇿🇦🎼🎼🌸🌸🌸🌸

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousFebruary 6, 2024 at 1:21 PM

    Belle-lettres. Reads like an art exhibition review.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Timeless South African Theatre classic, Woza Albert at Selaelo Maredi Theatre, Alex Theatre Company and Academy, 12th Avenue, Alexandra Township

Image
Hamilton Dhlamini and Thulani Mtshweni brought to life the evils of apartheid through their magnificent stage presence and extraordinary monologues. Their theatrical prowess is showcased by their ability to portray different characters - switching roles between and within the scene with minimal props and costumes. Produced by Ndlondlo Productions, directed by Hamilton Dhlamini and stage managed by Phumeza Damage, this four-decade old play, Woza Albert, was originally written by Percy Mthwa, Mbongeni Ngema and Barney Simon. This two-hander piece is currently touring South Africa, fresh from Eswatini. It mesmerised audiences in Alexandra Township for two days - 10th and 11th of June 2023 - and the next stop is the Makhanda National Arts Festival.  Thulani Mtshweni and Hamilton Dhlamini. Pic Supplied by Alex Theatre Company and Academy  This uniquely-spirited stage piece brings forth the lived experiences of South Africans during apartheid, which some of the presen
Read more

THE HEAD and THE LOAD, Kentridge's Celebration and Homage to the Africa Soldiers who fought in World War I

Image
The Head and the Load by William Kentridge is currently showing at the Joburg Theatre. Those who are familiar with the Joburg Theatre's Nelson Mandela Theatre will be surprised to be ushered past the auditorium's normal seating into what looks like the backstage of the theatre. Audience members are made to sit on the rostrum as if at the stadium. The title of the piece is inspired by the Ghanaian proverb, "The head and the load are the troubles of the neck." The lyricism, rhythm, and musicality of African languages are full of wisdom and humility; hence, the title builds anticipation and suspense for the potential audience. Poster of the production. Source: The Head and The Load Facebook Page The opening of this tapestry of artistic festivity is punctuated by the phalanx of dancers, actors, musicians and singers performing along what looks like a 500m riverbank, with the audience watching from across the bank.  The stage is the longest I have seen in length, suspend
Read more

Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024: A Vibrant Showcase of Global Art

Image
Stepping into the International Convention Centre Cape Town for this year's edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair felt akin to entering MoMA in New York City, with a bustling crowd eagerly queuing to immerse themselves in the world of art. After a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the fair roared back to life, showcasing an incredible variety of booths from across the globe, with a notable emphasis on local artists and galleries. Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2024 .  One of the highlights was the impressive array of works by Kimati Mafafo, presented by Ebony Gallery, offering a captivating perspective. However, it was the WALL booth from Cape Town that truly stole the show for me, boasting a stellar collection of South African masters alongside emerging talents, providing a privileged opportunity for the public to engage with these significant works. Kimathi Mafafo, Sisters in Unison III, hand and machine stitched embroidery
Read more