Hidden Conversations: Just 6

Two-time Grammy-nominated vocal group Just 6 are known for turning six voices into an orchestra. But for their upcoming performance as part of the running Hidden Spaces series, they’re doing something they’ve never done before – sharing the stage with a live band.

Traditionally, Just 6 have used their voices to mimic the full spectrum of instrumental sound. For this show, they’re blending that signature vocal style with actual instrumentation, bringing a bold new dimension to their performance. “We’ve always mimicked instruments with our voices,” they explain. “Hidden Spaces felt like the right moment to fuse those vocal textures with real guitars, keys, and drums.”

The band of the day isn’t a formal outfit, but rather a group of longtime friends and collaborators the members have worked with over the years. “It’s not a specific band,” they say. “Just a couple of our friends that are joining us for the gig, friends we’ve jammed with for years.”

The setlist for the night will reflect the group’s wide-ranging musical identity. Known for reworking familiar covers into something uniquely their own, Just 6 will offer fresh interpretations of crowd favorites alongside original songs—some reimagined for this new hybrid setup. Their recent Afrobeats Mix a seamless mashup of Afrobeats hits arranged with the precision of a DJ set, will hopefully also make an appearance. “Instead of doing just one cover, we thought—why not mix together a few songs we love? Then we arranged it like a DJ would build a set.”

The group is careful to strike a balance between evolution and essence. Even with the introduction of live instruments, they’re not abandoning their a-cappella roots. The harmonies, textures, and playfulness that fans love remain firmly intact, with added layers that elevate the experience. “There’ll definitely be that balance,” they say. “We’ve always been a group that does both original music and reworked covers in our own style.”

Energy and connection are at the heart of everything Just 6 do. Whether performing in churches, festivals, or alternative venues like The Fort, their goal remains the same: to bring people together. “Every time we pull up, it’s a good time,” they laugh. “Kick off your shoes, get on the dance floor, have a good time, that’s what we do in our music, and that’s the energy we bring to the people.”

With deep roots in the church, each member draws from a shared history steeped in harmony, family, and spirit. “At our core, we’re church boys,” they say. “It’s where we come from, and it’s still a part of who we are. When we perform in that setting, it feels like coming home. But no matter where we’re performing, our goal is the same—we want people to feel good.”

Looking ahead, the group is preparing to release a new album in the coming months. This time, they’re diving deep into South Africa’s musical heritage, curating a collection of classics from icons like Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, and Mango Groove. “We’ve pulled some great music from South Africa’s rich catalogue,” they say. “We’re recreating them in a way that feels fresh but still honors their legacy.” The album will also feature some original Just 6 compositions and a few instrumental touches, but it will remain rooted in their unique vocal style. “Let’s say, give us three months,” they hint. “We’re in the final stages of preparation, and something exciting is definitely coming.”

Their upcoming Hidden Spaces set promises to be a celebration of community, creativity, and evolution. It’s a night where tradition meets experimentation, and where six voices will stretch even further, amplified by rhythm, soul, and something altogether new.

Just 6 perform on Friday, 12 July, at The Fort in Sandton as part of the Hidden Spaces series.