Hidden Conversation with Ofentse Sebula

This Saturday, August 23rd, saxophonist and composer Ofentse Moses Sebula makes his much-anticipated return to the Hidden Spaces stage at The Fort in Sandton. Having first appeared in the series last year, Ofentse is stepping back into the spotlight – this time as a headliner, bringing both the music fans know and love, and the new material he has been shaping in recent times.

Earlier in the year Ofentse had some exploits in the Netherlands, “It’s been about three months since I got back from Europe,” he reflects. “That experience was a lot – it was exciting, eye-opening, sometimes tough, but it gave me a fuller picture of the world. I felt everything all at once.” While abroad he collaborated with acts like the African Mamas, expanding his already versatile palette. He also not too long ago found himself part of unexpected projects, including a amapiano-driven track with pioneer DBN Gogo. “For me, music is bigger than genre,” he says. “Jazz is one of my voices, but I want to tell stories through any sound – R&B, pop, amapiano – whatever best carries the message.”

For Saturday’s show, Sebula will be performing music from his debut album Hope, alongside selections from his forthcoming project Shifting Perspective. “I’ll be joined by friends – Modika on guitar, Michael Nkuna on trumpet, DiTeboho on keys, and Carlow Jooste on bass. These are people I trust musically, and we’ve been building something really special together,” he shares. “And for the first time, Carlow will be joining us live on stage, which I’m excited about.”

The evening will also feature an exclusive set by [Kimetsu.], adding another layer of artistry to the night. “It’s going to be amazing,” Sebula promises. “A full day of music with the people I love playing with, sharing new work, and reimagining older songs for the stage.”

His upcoming project, Shifting Perspective, is still in the works. “There isn’t a set release date yet,” he admits. “We’ve had some delays, and I don’t want to rush it. But once the mixes and masters are ready, we’ll announce. For now, the show is a chance to give people a taste of what’s coming.”

Supported by Concerts SA, this performance also highlights the collaborative spirit behind Hidden Spaces. “Collaboration makes everything possible,” says Sebula. “I just want to be in the music – having partners like Hidden Spaces handle the production side allows me to focus on creating. It’s a blessing.”

With his saxophone as his compass, Ofentse Sebula continues to push beyond categories, blending experiences, genres, and emotions into a voice that feels both grounded and searching. Saturday’s Hidden Spaces show is set to capture that spirit: intimate yet expansive, rooted in jazz but open to the world.

Ofentse Sebula performs live at The Fort, Sandton, on Saturday, August 23rd, as part of the Hidden Spaces series.