Drummer Louis Moholo-Moholo is a musician with a very special relationship with UK jazz fans. Fleeing, as Louis calls it, the ‘heavy manners’ of 60s apartheid South Africa , he headed to England in 1964 along with the rest of his band The Blue Notes. Bringing their upbeat melodies and South African rhythms to a British audience The Blue Notes forged a deep and lasting relationship with the rising stars of the UK scene including Kenny Wheeler, Evan Parker and Keith Tippett. Together they created joyous music that celebrated the crossover of cultures and musical traditions.
Last November Louis celebrated his 70th birthday with a special concert at the Purcell Room in London – and you can hear it on tonight’s programme. Split into two halves, the night began with an intimate duo between old friends as Louis and pianist Keith Tippett took to the stage. In a set of high energy improv the pair showcased an expansive understanding of each other’s playing developed over their 40-year musical relationship.
In the break between sets you can hear an interview Jez recorded with Louis in front of a live audience at the Southbank Centre. Covering the pivotal points in Louis’ career he talks candidly about his experiences under apartheid and as the last-standing member of a generation of exiled musicians that have made such an impact on the jazz scene here in England.
The second half of the concert begins shortly after midnight and features a group put together specifically for the event called Seven for 70, performing a range of songs and compositions from Louis’ back-catalogue including Creole ballads and wild swinging tunes. Joining Louis on stage are Ntshuks Bonga & Jason Yarde on saxophone, Francine Luce on vocals, trumpeter Henry Lowther, John Edwards on bass and pianist Alex Hawkins . It’s a 70th birthday party to remember for a man whose life and work deserves to be celebrated.
