Linda Sikhakhane

Through his searching, saxophonist, arranger and composer Linda Sikhakhane epitomises the vibrant evolution of South Africa’s jazz landscape. The Umlazi-born and KwaNongoma descendant musician establishes a conversation between the contemporary and traditional, homegrown and global while steeping his ruminations on the personal, societal, spiritual and cultural in rich tones. Owing inspiration to greats such as John Coltrane, Bheki Mseleku and Winston Mankunku Ngozi, Sikhakhane’s style is informed by the interplay between the metropolitan and the folkloric. His offerings deftly align these sonic influences with theoretical concepts drawn from both hereditary customs and academic abstraction.

He began his musical journey at the Siyakhula Music Centre under the gentle guidance of the late Dr. Brian Thusi which saw him completing a Diploma In Jazz at the University Of KwaZulu Natal. His determination led to a relentless work schedule performing live and also in the studio with Nduduzo Makhathini, his longtime mentor, the H3 horn ensemble and many others. Emerging victorious at the SAMRO Overseas Scholarship competition in 2016, he utilized the prize money to fund his Degree programme at The New School in New York. Here, he was mentored by greats such as Billy Harper, Reggie Workman, David Schnitter and Charles Tolliver.

Sikhakhane is a 2x SAMA and Metro Fm awards nominee for Best Jazz Album with three albums under his name, and was named the Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz in 2022. He has worked with a broad array of artists: Nduduzo Makhathini, Sibongile Khumalo, Themba Mkhize, Letta Mbuli, Nasheet Waits,Khaya Mahlangu, Gregory Porter, Rodney Kendrick, Rhonda Ross Kendrick, Zakes Bantwini, Logan Richardson, Derrick Hodge, Ted Daniel, Thandiswa Mazwai, Herbie Tsoaeli, Somi and more. He has appeared in many stages locally and abroad such as Makhanda Jazz Festival, Joy Of Jazz, Lincoln Center, Mamajaz, Caramoor Jazz Festival, The Bird’s Eye Jazz Club, Ronnie Scott’s, Elphilharmonie (Hamburg), just to name a few.