Multi-award-winning jazz singer Judith Sephuma has been announced as an opening act when US singer Bebe Winans graces South African shores for the It All Comes Down to Love Tour, scheduled to take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on 9 December, Grand Arena in Cape Town on 15 December and SunBet Arena Time Square on 16 December 2023. The veteran jazz singer opens up to ZiMoja about her career, music, and wellness. 

TOURING

Judith needs no introduction to the South African music scene, her foothold on the popular music scene started the very moment when she released A Cry, A Smile, and A Dance, which in many ways defined her destiny in the competitive popular music scene. Jazzy in tone with a good dose of RnB grooves, her musical journey ever since has been a sterling one. "I have worked with him before on two occasions. I believe this event will be amazing and refreshing. I am looking forward to it. It's so exciting to be invited to join Bebe Winans for his upcoming tour of South Africa," Judith says. "Besides loving being on stage and sharing the stage with him, I have always loved his music, from a young age. On this tour, I promise to have all familiar favourite sing-alongs. I am also looking forward to watching Bebe perform, it's going to be an experience." She has performed all over the world and still loves performing for her South African audience. "The difference is always in the performances itself. But home makes it easy because I sing in all languages that are understood," Judith says. "They know the music. They love to sing along, they know how to celebrate. The International audience is always curious about our sound."

WHAT BEBE SAYS

On having a powerhouse be his opening act, Bebe says, "Judith Sephuma is one of my favourite singers in South Africa. She and I have shared the stage a number of times and it was bliss. I am blessed to have her joining me on my South African tour and I look forward to the magical moments we create on stage." The US singer has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and has won six Grammy Awards, 10 Dove Awards, six Stellar Awards, four NAACP Awards and three Soul Train Music Awards. As a solo artist, he has released eight albums and is known for his jaw-dropping performances on some of the most important and star-studded musical specials of the past decades. 

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLNESS

 In the last few years, she has spent time touring and focusing on her mental and physical wellness. "My career is always exciting because I travel the world, see the world, and experience the world on different levels. It helps one to grow and to be very open-minded about life. One becomes more creative as well," Judith says. "Fitness has been a part of my life for the longest time. It keeps me focused, peaceful, and confident. I feel good. It's a lifestyle that is just life-changing." The last project Judith released was Power Of Dreams in 2019 and she plans to enjoy performances before going back to the studio. "There are no plans of recording at the moment," she says. "I am enjoying being on stage and traveling all over the world currently. Maybe late next year I will consider recording. It will happen... just not now."