Renowned DJ and music producer Black Coffee turned 49 and through his foundation, hosted a fundraising gala to raise money for his newest initiative, the Black Coffee Music Academy.
The ultra-swanky LUXX Venue Sandhurst was filled with some of South Africa’s most influential names including ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula and prominent businessman Saki Macozoma.
The guests didn't just include top politicians and businessmen but also the entertainment industry’s finest including legendary music producer Oskido, choreographer and radio and TV personality Somizi Mhlongo, Major League DJz, Anatii, Blxckie, Siyabonga Ngwekazi and even former Miss South Africa Dr. Tamaryn Green and her husband entrepreneur Ze Nxumalo.
Top broadcaster Anele Mdoda hosted the evening's festivities, which included a delectable curated three-course meal by Chef Scott, performances by Kitchen Mess; opera by Zandile Mzazi; Nduduzo Makhathini at the grand piano, and an unforgettable live performance by Bikos Manna.
To raise funds for The Black Coffee Music Academy, a live auction held by Strauss & Co. took place, getting the credit cards to come out and play.
The auction had one-of-a-kind pieces, including a signature Nelson Makamo artwork, which Mhlongo tried to bid on but was ultimately outbid, the artwork was auctioned off for R 500 000.
A limited-edition Rolex watch was auctioned for R600 000 to businessman Macozoma. Nxumalo was outbid on a couple’s all-expenses paid VIP experience to Ibiza for Black Coffee’s show, which was auctioned for R350 000.
In total R3.1 million was raised towards the foundation of the music academy.
@thislove_k Black Coffee’s fundraising gala. One of the items auctioned was a Zl all expenses paid couple’s VIP experience to Black Coffee’s Ibiza show. This includes flights, accommodation and access to the show as the Grammy Award winning artist’s show. Businessman Ze Nxumalo tried to bid for the experience but he was outbid red at R350 000 #BlackCoffee #southafricancelebrities #entertainment #DJ #TamarynGreen #ZeNxumalo ♬ original sound - Oluthando Keteyi
The Academy will be a world-class institution, providing tertiary-level music education where students can learn about music production, the business of music, the process of creating an album, marketing music and more - ensuring that the next generation of African artists is prepared to take the world successfully.
Black Coffee expressed his gratitude while speaking to those in attendance, “This initiative has been a dream of mine for a long time, and it’s truly incredible to see it finally come to life - starting with this very special evening, surrounded by people who believe in the power of music education.
“I’ve always been committed to leaving the world a better place, and this Academy is part of that vision. It’s about building an impactful legacy that will ensure South African and African music continues to take on the global stage.
“Education is the foundation of growth, and by investing in young minds, we are securing the future of our music and culture. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate my birthday.”
Lungie Maphumulo, CEO of the Black Coffee Foundation, shared her excitement: “We are absolutely thrilled with the generosity shown tonight. Raising R3.1 million means we can take the first steps in physically building the foundation of the Black Coffee Music Academy."
IOL Entertainment