Renowned Grammy Award-winner Lebohang ‘Lebo M’ Morake is set to make musical history with his first-ever live concert in Cape Town, dubbed 'Lebo M Live.' This one-night-only extravaganza will take place on April 18, 2025, and will feature special guest Hans Zimmer, esteemed composer known for his cinematic masterpieces, including those for Disney.
The concert, which has generated significant anticipation, will be held at the Grand Arena at GrandWest, moving from its original venue at Artscape due to overwhelming demand for tickets. The shift aims to provide audiences with a larger stage and improved production experience. This event marks almost 40 years of Morake's illustrious career, beginning with his work on the iconic film The Power of One.
Lebo M's groundbreaking contributions to music, particularly through Disney’s The Lion King, redefined the relationship between film and music, earning him numerous accolades and international acclaim. Expressing his excitement for this landmark performance, Morake said, “My music is – and always will be – rooted in home soil, and I couldn’t be more excited about staging my first live concert season in Cape Town. The music from The Lion King not only touched hearts and minds around the world, it continues to provide an inspirational platform to uplift local talent and inspire the next generation of creators.”
The concert will not only showcase Morake's powerful music but will also feature performances from acclaimed acts like MiCasa, The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, The Soweto Spiritual Singers, and the Ndlovu Youth Choir. Additional performers will include singer-songwriters Nkosinathi Shabalala and Refi Sings, promising to transform the event to one where cultural diversity and musical mastery will shine.
Morake’s extensive career includes pivotal roles as composer, producer, and performer, affirming his place as one of Africa's most respected music figures. Notably, he has garnered significant attention for his humanitarian efforts, serving as both an Oscar nominee and a UNAids Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for African rights and music and cultural expressions on the global stage.
The concert follows the premiere of Disney's highly anticipated film Mufasa: The Lion King, which debuted at the Dolby Theatre on December 9, 2024, before being released widely by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. This alignment of events heightens interest and enthusiasm for Morake’s show, creating expectations of nostalgia and celebration.
Hans Zimmer, who will appear alongside Morake, shared heartfelt sentiments about their longstanding friendship and collaboration, highlighting their shared history of creating films focused on Africa. “I am thrilled to have walked this path together, as partners, brothers, and friends since childhood. We began our journeys creating films about Africa at a time when few were willing to do so,” said Zimmer, reflecting on their joint endeavors and the importance of their work.
With the unique fusion of music, culture, and visual storytelling, 'Lebo M Live' is poised to take its audience on an emotional and nostalgic ride, celebrating not just the achievements of one man but the collective spirit of African music and artistry. This concert offers not only a closure to Morake’s remarkable career to date but also hope and inspiration for those who follow.
On April 18, 2025, music enthusiasts should prepare for what promises to be not just another concert but rather a historic event imbued with meaning, connection, and celebration of creative legacy. With the blend of renowned artists and the grand atmosphere of the Grand Arena, attendees can anticipate experiencing something truly extraordinary.