Jozi Nights - Moonwalking in Heels

I've been hitting the party scene a bit harder than usual recently, mainly because I'm mourning the impending end of summer nights and because I have a few new pairs of shoes that needed their debut. So I treated myself to musical events, as one does.

Live shows in Jo'burg are usually characterised by dingy yet trendy venues where jeans and sneakers are the order of the day. Imagine my (and my new sling backs') delight when I was invited to a show featuring musicians from East and South Africa and the invitation christened the dress code as smart casual.

The scene was Cantare restaurant at Monte Casino on a balmy Saturday night. The restaurant is upmarket without being pretentious and usually reserved for those who are part of the supper club, but this night it was filled with trendy art types. I spotted the odd dashiki, but at these kinds of events they're bound to emerge.

The evening was laid-back and talent-filled, and reminded me of the abundance of talent our continent possesses. MXO and his raspy voice, an amazing guitarist named Bheki Khoza and stunning model look-a-like Liz Ogumbo from Kenya called their showcase South East Soul, celebrating music from the two regions. Conversation for the evening turned towards to arts and culture, a topic I always find easier when I'm armed with cocktails. Liz Ogumbo impressed me with her rich voice and chocolate legs that seem to go on for days.

The following week was quiet; no weekday events to fill my calendar but Friday more than made up for that. I was invited to one of the biggest parties of the year – MTV Base turned five and the DSTV channel wanted to celebrate. Big. The weather threatened to spoil well-planned outfits, but MTV Base's fully-stocked open bar ensured no one was cold, or cared about getting a little wet.

Not far from bling-filled Sandton, some of SA's best artists (Flash Republic, Jozi, JR, Tear Gas and The Parlotones) graced the stage at Urban Tree. DJ Switch and Milkshake hit the decks, making sure there was never a moment of silence amongst the fascinating mix of Jozi's fine and fabulous. If there was ever an ideal rainbow nation, this crowd was it. Rappers, rockers, comedians, businessmen, socialites, poets and everyone else worth knowing in this town rocked the birthday bash. Thankfully everyone brought their modest attitudes with them.

Now while JR's 'Show Dem' is a big hit on radio playlists across the country, it was an even bigger hit at Urban Tree. So much so he had to perform it twice. We were all having too much of a good time and my friends and I figured we'd stay until the bar tab closed. That didn't happen and we danced the night away, literally. When the sun threatened to come up, my beautifully-heeled feet threatened a go-slow. Saturday morning was difficult to say the least but worth every moment. This was by far one of the best parties I've ever been to.

Next week I have Selwyn's album launch at Club Inc., a freaky play Foreplay and whatever else Jo'burg wants me to explore.

Author: Zama Nkosi