This year, the legendary all male choir, Amadodana Ase Wesile, celebrates 40 years in the music business and plans to release a documentary as part of their 40th anniversary.
DOCUMENTING
Amadodana Ase Wesile was founded by veteran singers Thomas Mokhati and Mongezi Nhose, who were both members of the Methodist Church and whose passion has kept the group successful for the past four decades. Mokhathi's granddaughter, Thabang Buthelezi, is set to document the life and times of the group in celebration of the past forty years.
HISTORY
Buthelezi said the documentary idea came after renowned fashion designer, Lukhanyo Mdingi's showcase of the exhibition, The Provenance Part II. "The exhibition sparked an interest in going back in time and researching some of my grandmother's history and the group. We have gone back to some archives and researched, looking at old newspaper clippings and interviews that the group did many years ago. We also want to portray the impact the music had in the community.'
BACK IN TIME
The documentary will share the journey of the all-male group, their trials, and their successes. It will be directed by Sanaa Mothabisa, photographed by Andile Buka, produced by Tidimalo Rampou, and share extensive research by Sifiso Khanyile. "We plan to go back to even before my grandfather formed the group, his life story, and how the group was formed, leading up to the legacy of today,' Buthelezi said. Currently in the making, Buthelezi says the documentary should be ready to air in August 2025.
