Lullaby for Khayoyo, by McCoy Mrubata

Lullaby for Khayoyo

by McCoy Mrubata

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1.	Lullaby For Khayoyo 07:02		buy track
2.	The White Sand Of The Flats 07:59		buy track
3.	Oh Yhini - For Winston Ngozi 07:59		buy track
4.	Ezilalini 08:11		buy track
5.	Tshona Khona 06:20	info
6.	Jazzy Jive 06:10		buy track
7.	Siyabulela 05:04		buy track
8.	Lullaby For Khayoyo - Reprise 04:31		buy track
9.	Hudson Bridge Crossing 01:47		buy track

about

About the album:
This album is a testament to the power of collaboration, born from a transcontinental journey that began in South Africa and traversed across oceans to find resonance in the hearts of musicians from diverse corners of the world.

The genesis of these melodic tales originated from South Africa, in the company of the ingenious guitarist Oscar Dlamini and the skilled trombonist and arranger Jabu Mgubane. The journey across continents took a significant turn when I had the honour of sharing this musical odyssey with the esteemed American guitarist Gary Witnner during our June 2023 mini-USA tour. Our musical synergy, forged since our first meeting in 2008, blossomed anew as we introduced this music to the incredibly talented bassist Jennifer Vincent, with whom I’ve had a privilege of working with a number of times when in the States, and the rhythmic pulse of drummer George Gray, who worked with the South African great Abdullah Ibrahim for over fifteen years.

The culmination of this cross-continental narrative transpired in the studio, where a convergence of musical brilliance unfolded. Joined by a stellar cast of guest musicians—pianist Steven Feifke, clarinet and alto player Evan Christopher, and the South African trombonist (now based in the US) Siya Charles. The recording sessions were a testament to collaboration at its best. Each musician brought their unique voice, contributing to the tapestry of sound that defines this album.

The culmination of this collaborative effort is what one hears on this album that encapsulates the spirit of the music, cultural exchange, and artistic camaraderie. It's a celebration of the universal language of music that transcends borders, embracing the shared heartbeat that unites us all. - McCoy Mrubata

Track by track notes:

Tracks 1 and 8 - Lullaby for Khayoyo
This song is dedicated to my grandson, Khaya; we recorded two versions – one in quintet with Steven Feifke joining on piano, and one in quartet.

Track 2 - White Sand of The Flats
Composed by the pianist Paul Hanmer. He wrote the song after the tragic death of my daughter Nonceba, thus dedicating it to her passing.

Track 3 - Oh Yhini
Dedicated to one of my heroes and teacher, the late Winston Mankunku Ngozi. Whenever he called me and whenever I’d meet up with him I’d say “Oh Yhini Bhuti!” with excitement. We really adored each other.

Track 4 - Ezilalini
Meaning “In the villages.” The melody came to me when we were in the village of Hewu to bury my father.

Track 5 - Tshona Khona
Loosely translates to “Go down there.” In this case we’re saying “Let’s do this”

Track 6 - Jazzy Jive
A happy song that’s in the style of the old African soul music inspired by the late 60s/early 70s South African bands like The Movers.

Track 7 - Siyabulela
We’re thankful: This is one of the songs that was part of a commission by Wandile Yani’s tribute to Oliver Tambo. I was tasked to MD and produce the recording named “Voices On OR Tambo” Siyabulela has lyrics saying we’re thankful that the Lord brought us a great leader in you.

Track 9 - Hudson Bridge Crossing
The Hudson Bridge is one of many bridges that fascinate me when crossing. The strength and durability one sees is really amazing. New York’s bridges also give one a beautiful view of the river and the city.

credits

released April 5, 2024

McCoy Mrubata tenor saxophone (all tracks)
Evan Christopher alto saxophone (tracks 5, 7), clarinet (track 3)
Siya Charles trombone (tracks 3, 5, 7)
Gary Wittner guitar (tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
Steven Feifke piano (tracks 1, 3. 4, 5, 6, 7)
Jennifer Vincent bass (tracks 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
George Gray drums (tracks 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)

Produced by McCoy Mrubata and Gary Witter
Recorded and Mixed by Aaron Spencer
Recorded at 360 Sound Studio in Orange, NJ on June 18, 19, and 20, 2023
Mastered by Dave Segal
Executive Producer and AfricArise Curator – Seton Hawkins

Original charts prepared by Jabu Magubane
Studio charts prepared by Gary Wittner

Vanessa Mrubata - artwork
Ntokozo Nhlanhla - art design

Thank You
Oscar Dlamini, Wandile Molefe, Bernice Boikanyo, Nhlanhla Radebe, and Jabu Magubane for bringing the music to life.

Jennifer Vincent, George Gray, Gary Wittner, Steven Feifke, Siya Charles, and Evan Christopher bringing their all.

Seton Hawkins for facilitating the recording.

Scott Anderson for use of his beautiful studio.

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about

McCoy Mrubata South Africa

Saxophonist, flute player, band leader and composer Born in 1959. He grew up to the sounds of African music. He went to perform with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis.

McCoy recently released Quiet Please and Strings Attached Project, First Green.
In 2022 has been nominated for the 2022 South African Music Awards and is also this year’s Lifetime Achiever recipient. ... more

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