#YoungTrailblazers: Joburg’s groove starter Amahle Jaxa

#YoungTrailblazers: Joburg’s groove starter Amahle Jaxa

For decades South Africa’s party scene [or groove culture as we know it today], has seen the rise, fall and resurgence of various artists, music genres and dance styles.

Embedded in South Africa’s rich cultural and diverse heritage, groove culture has not only led to the adoption of new sounds and styles but it has too intersected through various spaces and communities in South Africa and abroad.

It’s no secret that groove culture has always dominated South Africa’s entertainment landscape, but thanks to viral Amapiano dance challenges like the #UmlandoChallenge, Dbn Gogo’s #DakiweChallenge and the viral video that introduced us to Uncle Waffles, many abroad now got their first glance and taste of South Africa’s groove culture in its entirety; the music, the vibe and the dance moves.

Although currently at its peak, South Africa’s groove culture dates all the way back to the upbeat tempos of disco, electro and house music, not to mention the chest-thumping beats and rapid-fire lyrics of Hip-Hop and Kwaito music.

South African groove, is more than just about the vibes, it’s a cultural revolution and movement that is rooted in community and transcends time, space, language, race and borders.

This movement is one that wouldn’t be possible without the planners, organisers and curators because they are the ones who are not only responsible for planning and bringing events to life, but are essentially the ones who are at the forefront of South Africa’s nightlife culture.