Latest news with #ZolaniMahola
The South African
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Zolani Mahola to Open Africa's Greatest Horse Racing Event
The countdown has begun, the excitement is palpable, and the spotlight is set to shine on one of South Africa's most celebrated voices. The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, known as Africa's Greatest Horse Racing Event, will have Zolani Mahola, also known on stage as The One Who Sings, performing the national anthem. She will be part of a day that promises to have its signature blend of thrilling horse racing, high fashion, and electrifying entertainment. The name 'The One Who Sings' reflects Zolani's transformation from a member of the celebrated band, Freshly Ground, to a solo artist, as well as her ongoing commitment to social change and her powerful voice that resonates with South Africans across generations. Having spent over two decades capturing the spirit of the nation, her solo journey continues to inspire, uplift, and connect people through her music. This performance is set to be one of the defining moments of the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, aligning perfectly with the event's theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi.' Zolani will honour South Africa's rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance in front of a live audience, providing a truly soulful and unifying experience. Zolani Mahola. Image: Supplied 'As part of our commitment to uplifting the local creative industry, the Hollywoodbets Durban July proudly supports homegrown artists who have shaped South African music over the decades,' says Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager at Hollywoodbets. 'The event not only celebrates these artists on its grand stage but also plays a crucial role in sustaining their careers and amplifying the work they continue to do in their communities,' Heffer adds. Hollywoodbets, a proudly South African company, has long been a supporter of artists who represent the heart and soul of the country's musical landscape. With a thrilling entertainment line-up to be revealed on Friday, 16 May, attendees can expect some of the biggest names in South African music, all performing in one place. All this will be available to ticket holders for just one price, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July an unmissable event for lovers of sport, fashion, and music. With Zolani opening the show, this year's event is set to be nothing short of extraordinary. Tickets for the event are available from Ticketpro and Payzone Kiosks at SPAR stores nationwide.
The South African
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 assembles stellar South African music line-up
The countdown to Africa's greatest horse racing and fashion event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, has officially begun – and this year's entertainment promises to be as iconic as the event itself. Taking place on Saturday, 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, the Hollywoodbets Durban July will be headlined by some of South Africa's most celebrated music talent, delivering a spectacular showcase of live performances and DJ sets that will electrify the crowds. In addition to Zolani Mahola singing the national anthem, the star-studded music lineup includes: Mafikizolo: The multi-award-winning Afro-pop duo, known for timeless hits like Khona and Love Potion, will bring their signature sound and vibrant stage presence to this year's main stage. Lira: The songstress hailed as South Africa's 'Diva of Soul' will deliver a soulful and uplifting performance, fusing jazz, Afro-soul, and R&B influences. Hot Water: Known for their high-energy performances and unique blend of traditional South African sounds with rock and folk, Hot Water promises to set the stage alight with rhythmic celebration. GoodLuck – With their fusion of electronic beats and live instrumentation, GoodLuck will bring a dynamic, dance-ready energy to the festivities GoodLuck: With their fusion of electronic beats and live instrumentation, GoodLuck will bring a dynamic, dance-ready energy to the festivities, perfect for keeping the party going well into the evening. DJ Dalootz: Driven by an unwavering passion for music and a deep love for delivering a 'Rocking Time,' DJ Dalootz will be providing those in attendance with an unforgettable performance and experience. Lee Cole: Known for his emotionally charged lyrics and dynamic stage presence, Lee will be creating distinctive pop sounds with his unique vocal stylings at the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Sunset Sweatshop: Popularly known as a feel-good rock band with reggae and folk influences, Sunset Sweatshop will be creating their unique style of music for those at the racecourse. The Hollywoodbets Durban July ticket, priced at R230, will give attendees full access to see these incredible artists live, bringing top-tier talent within reach. 'This year's Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race – it's a full cultural experience, where the public will truly feel the pulse and the essence of this lifestyle event,' said Zandile Dlamini, Hollywoodbets spokesperson. Dlamini went on to state: 'We're thrilled to present an entertainment line-up that celebrates the best of South African music and adds another layer of magic to an already iconic event. At Hollywoodbets, we were passionate about bringing this to the public because we wanted to create unforgettable experiences that fans could be a part of and truly enjoy.' Beyond the races and live music, attendees can expect dazzling fashion displays, gourmet hospitality experiences, and vibrant social energy that has made the Hollywoodbets Durban July a highlight on the national calendar. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Feel the pride: Zolani Mahola to rock the national anthem at Hollywoodbets Durban July
Zolani Mahola will deliver a rendition of the national anthem at the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Taking place at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, this year's event promises to be a dazzling celebration under the "Marvels of Mzansi" theme. Zolani Mahola , the renowned lead vocalist of the celebrated band Freshlyground, will deliver a rendition of the national anthem at the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5. The theme captures the essence of South Africa's vibrant spirit, showcasing the country's rich culture, creative ingenuity, and a fashion scene that stuns. Mahola's performance is set to be one of the highlights of the day, adding a layer of pride and unity to what is not only a prestigious horse racing event but also a full cultural experience. Born and raised in Gqeberha, Mahola's career trajectory is as inspirational as it is impressive. She studied Theatre and Performance at the University of Cape Town and made her mark early on as an actress in the television drama 'Tsha Tsha'. Furthermore, her voice has graced the animated feature film 'Zambezia', where she voiced the character Zoë and lent her talents to the soundtrack with the uplifting song "Get Up'. As the frontwoman of Freshlyground, Mahola emerged as a household name, thanks to the band's unique sound that beautifully blended African pop and jazz, captivating listeners around the globe with hits like the beloved 'Doo Be Doo'. Yet, Mahola's ambitions have transcended her early successes. In recent years, she has carved out a powerful solo career, showcasing her storytelling finesse alongside her remarkable vocal abilities.
The Citizen
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Zolani Mahola to open Africa's greatest horse racing event
South African music icon Zolani Mahola will open the Hollywoodbets Durban July with a stirring rendition of the national anthem The countdown has begun, the excitement is palpable, and the spotlight is set to shine on one of South Africa's most celebrated voices. The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, known as Africa's greatest horse racing event, will have Zolani Mahola, also known on stage as The One Who Sings, performing the national anthem. She will be part of a day that promises to have its signature blend of thrilling horse racing, high fashion, and electrifying entertainment. Zolani Mahola, a marvel of Mzansi The name 'The One Who Sings' reflects Zolani's transformation from a member of the celebrated band Freshly Ground to a solo artist, as well as her ongoing commitment to social change and her powerful voice that resonates with South Africans across generations. Having spent over two decades capturing the spirit of the nation, her solo journey continues to inspire, uplift and connect people through her music. This performance is set to be one of the defining moments of the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, aligning perfectly with the event's theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Zolani will honour South Africa's rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance in front of a live audience, providing a truly soulful and unifying experience. Commitment to South African artists 'As part of our commitment to uplifting the local creative industry, the Hollywoodbets Durban July proudly supports homegrown artists who have shaped South African music over the decades,' says Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager at Hollywoodbets. 'The event not only celebrates these artists on its grand stage but also plays a crucial role in sustaining their careers and amplifying the work they continue to do in their communities,' Heffer adds. Hollywoodbets, a proudly South African company, has long been a supporter of artists who represent the heart and soul of the country's musical landscape. With a thrilling entertainment line-up to be revealed on Friday, 16 May attendees can expect some of the biggest names in South African music, all performing in one place. All this will be available to ticket holders for just one price, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July an unmissable event for lovers of sport, fashion and music. With Zolani opening the show, this year's event is set to be nothing short of extraordinary. Tickets for the event are available from Ticketpro and Payzone Kiosks at SPAR stores nationwide. NOW READ: It's official: Hollywood rescues KZN racing
Mail & Guardian
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Mail & Guardian
ZOLANI MAHOLA: On music, motherhood and making meaning
'To raise a child with tenderness is an act of resistance': Zolani Mahola. Photo: Gary van Wyk Zolani Mahola has always had range, vocally and creatively, but also as a mother, activist and mentor. She first entered South Africa's spotlight as the luminous voice of Afro-fusion band Freshlyground, and is now a solo artist known as 'The One who Sings', who is embracing motherhood, not as an interruption of her artistry, but as its most authentic source. Her story didn't start out as one of stardom. Born in Gqeberha in 1981, Zolani grew up in a home where money was often scarce, a reality that gave her resilience, but also a complicated relationship with financial security. 'I became aware from a young age of money's weight and power,' she reflects. 'But I also carried some fear around it that took time to unlearn.' It's a story many South African mothers know all too well. Having to make do with less, turning scarcity into sustenance, and shielding their children. But Zolani's perspective on wealth has evolved. She now sees money not as a measure of success or self-worth, but simply as 'energy… a tool for freedom and impact, especially when used in alignment with purpose and community.' That purpose is evident in everything Zolani touches. From co-creating the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem, 'Waka Waka', to forming her all-female band The Feminine Force, Zolani is challenging industry norms and rewriting the rules of what being an artist and mother look like. 'Motherhood didn't take me away from my art; it brought me closer to my truth,' she says. 'In entertainment, it's often seen as a complication—but for me, it's a deepening.' Zolani explains her belief that to mother is not just a private act, but a political one. 'In a time when the world feels heavy, fast, and uncertain, motherhood is radical,' she says. 'To raise a child with tenderness… is an act of resistance.' Her approach to parenting is steeped in reverence, not control. 'Children come into this world whole, intuitive, and deeply connected to themselves and the Earth,' she explains. 'As mothers, we are guardians of that light. My role is not to mould my children into who I think they should be, but to protect their curiosity… to help them stay connected to their inner knowing.' The loss of her mother at a young age also informs how she shows up for her own children, and how she teaches them about money. 'I want my children to see money as a tool, not something to fear or chase,' she says. 'True wealth, to me, is about community, creativity, and freedom… not just what we earn, but what we pass on emotionally and spiritually.' For working mothers across South Africa, Zolani's message is honest and hopeful, 'You don't have to do it perfectly, just consciously. And you don't have to do it alone.' She is particularly passionate about dismantling the myth that women don't support one another. 'My band The Feminine Force is built on the belief that when women support each other, magic happens,' she says. She credits unsung women—such as the praying woman down the road, the gogo next door raising a generation, the aunties who sang in church —as her role models, even when the entertainment world didn't reflect someone who looked like her. 'South African mothers are forces. We lead households, communities, and movements,' she says. Asked whether mothers can have it all, Mahola doesn't hesitate, 'We can have all that truly matters—love, connection, meaning, purpose—but not all at once, and not without cost.' Her definition of success is not perfection, but rather 'wholeness.' As South Africa honours mothers this month, Mahola stands tall not just as a musical icon, but as a mother.
