WHO would have thought jazz maestro Don Laka would feature hip-hop group Skwatta Kamp on his new album.

Laka has finished recording his latest album, Invitation, which features collaborations with a number of South African artists.

Laka said: “I just wanted to make an album that will appeal to everyone, no matter how old they are.

“I mean, some of these guys (collaborators) I did not even know, but after hearing their music I knew that these are the people I wanted to work with.”

The stars-studded album features house DJs Black Coffee and Revolution, Bongo Maffin ragga artist Jahseed, Judith Sephuma, Gloria Bosman, Afro Tenors, Paul Hamner, Palesa, Skwatta Kamp, Zonke, Unathi Nkayi, Shaluza Max Mntambo, Kunle, Oupa Makhubela, Amara and Andy Brown.

“It was not easy at first to get everybody. But as soon as I found them and told them what I wanted to do, they were all interested.”

Invitation aimed at pleasing Laka’s traditional fans and garnering new ones.

He is excited about writing lyrics again.

“I used to write poems, short stories and even lyrics. It felt good to start writing again. I think I really put my heart in such songs as We Stand, which was sung by the Afro Tenors.”

The new album will be in stores next week.

To view this article, visit The Times website (http://www.thetimes.co.za/OnCamera/Article.aspx?id=514999). You will also be able to view the video interview.

Article by:

ITUMELENG MOTUBA; The Times, Published: July 13, 2007