Kelvin Momo, one of the pioneers of the private school amapiano sound, is preparing for an unforgettable moment in his career – headlining the Red Bull Symphonic later this year.
Known for his intensely emotional, slow-burning soundscapes, Momo will now see his music reimagined by a full orchestra and choir in a once-in-a-lifetime performance.
Momo is the second artist to do the Red Bull Symphonic following Kabza De Small’s debut last year.
Joining Momo is the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra and renowned musical director Adam Howard, who originally hails from the United Kingdom but has found a home in South Africa.
Howard is no stranger to Mzansi audiences. Last year, he even trended online after he performed a mini solo at last year’s Red Bull Symphonic that had audiences on their feet.
Last year, Howard was the musical director and a performer, doing all the orchestral arrangements for the first Red Bull Symphonic.
“It’s an amazing journey for me,” Momo told IOL Entertainment in an exclusive interview.
He admits that working with Red Bull Symphonic is scary, but he gets to work with different people within the music space and is learning a lot from Howard.
“It’s scary because I never thought in my life I would reach this point, because music is tricky. You need to fight your way to the top.”
Known for his layered instrumentals and ambient melodies, Momo is excited and a little nervous about hearing his sound performed live with real instruments. “I’m an instrument lover. And now I’ll hear sounds I’ve never heard before. Real flutes, real strings. It’s crazy.”
Choosing which songs to perform is another challenge. “I won’t lie,” he laughs. “I’m trying to sneak in a few surprises. Maybe your favourite will cut.”
Besides the music, Momo fans will be in for a treat as it will be a rare occasion to see Momo in a suit. He teases that the last time he wore a suit was when he was very young.
Momo will be wearing a suit in theme with the orchestra, but has told the Red Bull Symphonic team that wearing a bucket hat is non-negotiable.
Despite his incredible rise to stardom, the Soweto-born producer remains grounded, even in moments of doubt, especially when it comes to releasing albums, meeting the demands of his fans, and wanting to deliver the best.
“I learned not to limit myself. If something doesn’t feel right, I call my team back to the studio and we go again. It’s about pushing until it feels right.”
Last year’s Red Bull Symphonic with Kabza De Small, Ofentse Pitse, and the Symphonic Orchestra sold out within hours, promoting a two-day show.
Kelvin Momo’s Red Bull Symphonic should be no different, especially considering how he trends every time he drops an album.
The Red Bull Symphonic: Amapiano, The Next Chapter will be on June 6 and 7, at The Teatro, Montecasino.
IOL Entertainment