R.I.P. Sylvia Mdunyelwa: A look at ‘Mam Nce’s Jazz legacy

Internationally acclaimed musician, broadcaster, and actor, Sylvia Mdunyelwa, was laid to rest on Saturday, 2 September 2023, let’s take a look at her illustrious career and the profound influence she had on the South African music industry and her community.

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SYLVIA MDUNYELWA: THE BEGINNING

Sylvia’s melodious journey started in the 1970s when she joined Victor Ntoni’s sextet according to The Conversation. It was here that her gift began to shine, a gift that would captivate audiences worldwide.

Alongside legendary Cape Town Jazz musicians like the Ngcukana brothers, Ezra and Duke Ngcukana, Winston Mankunku, Nick Carter, and Merton Barrow, Sylvia honed her craft and left an indelible mark on the world of music.

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MAM NCE AND JAZZ

Born in Langa, Sylvia was affectionately known as ‘Sis Nce’ or ‘Mam Nce’ to her community. To the broader Cape Town fan base, she was simply ‘Mama Kaap.’ Her roots in Langa remained a significant part of her identity, and she was proud of her heritage.

Mam Nce had a unique interpretation of jazz melodies and traditional Xhosa songs. Her ability to infuse these genres with her own distinctive style set her apart. However, Sylvia was not content with personal success alone. She dedicated herself to developing the talents of young and aspiring musicians.

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NURTURING YOUNG TALENT

In 1990, Mam Nce took a group of young musicians to the International Children’s Jazz Festival in Canada. Sylvia Mdunyelwa’s commitment to nurturing new talent was recognized when she was awarded a scholarship by the Educational Opportunities Council.

This opportunity led her to the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), where she polished her skills in music and theatre, further enriching her musical journey.

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VOICE OF JAZZ

Beyond the stage, Mam Nce presented ‘Voice of Jazz,‘ a program on P4 Radio, Heart 104.9FM, and served as a board member of Fine Music Radio, a classical jazz station in Cape Town. Her influence extended to Umhlobo Wenene FM, a Xhosa radio station, where she hosted her show.

Despite her enormous success, Sylvia Mdunyelwa never had formal singing lessons. Her talent was a gift from her family and the vibrant musical environment of Langa. Western Cape MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, sums it up best:

“Sylvia will be remembered for her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Her legacy will live on not only through her music but also through the impact she made on the South African music industry and the lives of many artists.”

Western Cape MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais

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R.I.P. MAM NCE

Sylvia Mdunyelwa, ‘Sis Nce,’ ‘Mam Nce,’ ‘Mama Kaap,’ left us after a short illness, but her music and influence will endure.

Her journey through the decades of music leaves an indomitable legacy, and her melodies will continue to resonate in the hearts of music lovers for generations to come. Sylvia, you may be gone, but your music lives on.

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