| About Sagiya Records | Background UJE is a musical outfit from Durban, formed out of musical influences of ‘Umkhumbane Settlement’, currently known as Cato Manor, on the western part of Durban. Senior members of the band learned their trade in Umkhumbane and plied their trades in Durban YMCA and ‘eMathilamini’ (Trams Durban Bus Depot), which were the only musical venues available to them during the fifties. Music Style/Genre The band is set up on marabi music style with strong big band influence. Their repertoire is dominated by music of the late 50’s mixed with big band selection and UJE members’ compositions. UJE has decided rescue this music style before it gets lost. UJE fans also enjoy original compositions by various musicians of UJE. The music style of UJE also bring you back to the vibes of Sofia Town and District Six. UJE was nominated for SATMA Awards 2017. Ezintabeni Album was launched at Rainbow Restaurant and Jazz Club. Moses Sefatsa – Tenor Saxophone The most senior member of the band who has been playing the same tenor saxophone he purchased in 1955. He is arguably one of the survivors of the early Durban jazz experience of the 50’s. His lifetime has been spent playing his instrument and is regarded as one of the best saxophonist this country has ever produced. He has played in various big bands including the notable Rhythm Aces and The Keynotes. UJE plays some of his compositions. Sithembiso Ntuli – Tenor Saxophone A product of the University of KwaZulu Natal, he has played and recorded with numerous acts including Sipho Gumede, Madala Kunene, The African Jazz Pioneers, UKZN Jazz, Skokiana, just to mention but few. He is as much at home playing mainstream jazz as in Marabi music. He is also widely travelled. Jerry Kunene – Alto Saxophone Jerry is probably one of the most active composer/arranger saxophonist in Durban currently. Jerry is versatile in all saxes, that include Sopranino, Soprano, Alto, and Tenor in jazz and light music genres. He is widely travelled, representing this province nationally and internationally. Early in his career he led his own band “Jerry and His Men” but has a distinguished career playing with Music Unlimited, Big Bands as a solo artist, with long-time friend Dr Brian Thusi and supporting on numerous DVD recordings. He also set aside time to nurture new talent. Mduduzi Magwaza – Alto Saxophonist and Penney Whistle Player Mdu is a former Mango Groove Saxophonist and Penny Whistle player. He has travelled many countries abroad with many bands. He brings a unique ingredient of influence in the set up. Muntu Dube – Alto Saxophone Grew up in Chesterville, a township surrounded by Umkhumbane Informal Settlement. His father was a conductor of choral groups. Chesterville can be regarded as a highly musical township having been home to notable musicians like the Shange Brothers and many more. These are the influences that may have shaped his musical direction. Bheki Luthuli – Trumpet A student of the late Geoge Lee, Bheki is one of those unknown artists who “blow you off”. He is a versatile who has played with Theo Bophela, amongst others and the KZN Jazz Legends. He is also a music teacher. Eric Duma – Trumpet Involved in Numerous set up including Classic, Jazz, Marabi and Theatre Productions. Worked with Madala Kunene. Duma was part of the early musical settings of the 70’s that linked poetry to music. He worked with Gibson Kente in his many theatre productions. Adolph Kunene – Lead Vocalist A living soccer legend who has been dedicated most of his life playing soccer, singing and sharing his skills to the youth in the townships. His musical skills as vocalist fits well into the UJE Music Style, hence he grew up in Umkhumbane. He also has rich history about our kind of music as an 84 year old. It is amazing that he still has a golden voice. Atlas Philani Duma – Drummer Started as a professional drummer in Technikon Natal (DUT), when he was leading his Sagiya Band that was feature in many festivals in the country. In 2002 he won Best Composer Award from Old Mutual Jazz Encounters after winning Shell Road to Fame SA national talent search in 1997. He is an author and the director of Dim-Dep Musical theatre production; accompanied by classical orchestra, UJE and other music legends in Opera Theatre 2016. KB Maphumulo - Bassist Worked with Theo Bophela the Jazz Legend. Mr Maphumulo had been a mentor in many young musicians. Teaches music in UKUSA Music Development Programme. He is a leader of his band “KB’s Menu”. Inspired by four Double Bassists,Victor Ntoni, Thami Mtshali, Lex Futshani and Victor Masondo. Vincent Mtetwa - Pianist Has a B Prac. Mus degree in Jazz and Popular Music from UKZN where he lectured for ten years. Won numerous Awards while performing with a number of bands as a Pianist and Keyboard player. Done various theatre productions: The Dockyard Supper Theatre (2003-2009), etc. MD & Producer: Dim-Dep Musical in Durban Playhouse Opera Theatre |
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