Champions of isicathamiya music worldwide, the "Kholwa Brothers" from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, are appealing to the nation and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture for financial assistance to secure an opportunity to work with renowned US producer Jeffrey Weber.
This opportunity arose after Weber, based in California, discovered the Kholwa Brothers. Their exceptional talent was recognised when they made history by winning at the World Championships of Performing Arts, held in Garden Grove, Los Angeles, California, in 2022.
Weber, one of the judges at the championships in which the group participated, proposed using his expertise to support and promote the group, helping to bring their music to a global audience.
His plan involves recording and producing 4 songs with the "Kholwa Brothers" in collaboration with world-class musicians, including members of bands that have played for Ariana Grande, Aretha Franklin, and Jeff Beck, among others.
When asked about working with the Kholwa Brothers, Weber said: "I have had the pleasure of experiencing their vocal art, and I am fully committed to their level of achievement and the extraordinary work ethic they possess."
The group has performed extensively across all provinces of South Africa and internationally in countries such as Brazil, Germany, the United States, China, South Korea, and Italy.
The 10-member group is now seeking financial support to raise R2.9 million, the amount needed to cover their expenses for the trip abroad after the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture could not assist.
IOL spoke to Derrick Mlambo, the founder of the Kholwa Brothers, who explained that the group reached out to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture on July 31, 2024, but has yet to receive clear feedback.
According to Mlambo, the funds are needed to cover the following expenses:
- Accommodation
- Flights
- Studio time
- Rehearsal space
- Visas
- Local transportation
- Stipends for the band members
“We arrived at this amount based on the duration of our stay in California, which will be five days. The individuals assisting us with this project have generously reduced their usual rates, asking only for amounts to cover their lunch and transportation,” said Mlambo.
IOL also contacted Pearl Khuzwayo from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. She acknowledged awareness of the group's proposal but explained that securing the necessary funds has been challenging due to budget constraints.
“We have tried presenting the proposal to various units but have been unsuccessful in obtaining the money. At this time of year, funds are scarce, so we may have to wait until next April,” said Khuzwayo.
The Kholwa Brothers were recently celebrated with prestigious awards, including the Amaqhawe (Our Heroes) Award, presented by the ZeeZonke channel on October 17, 2024.
Additionally, on November 2, they received the “Lifetime Achiever’s Award” from the SIP Isicathamiya Music Awards.
In the meantime, the Kholwa Brothers have launched a fundraising campaign, appealing to Mzansi for support through text message donations to help turn their dream opportunity into a reality and bring pride to their country.
IOL