In the world of contemporary South African jazz, only a few names shine brighter than Mandisi Dyantyis. A multifaceted musician known for his unique fusion of jazz, African traditions, and gospel, Dyantyis has made a name for himself as a composer, trumpeter, and vocalist with the power to move audiences. His deep understanding of storytelling through music, combined with his authentic creative process, has earned him a loyal following both in South Africa and abroad.

As I sat down with Dyantyis, it was clear that he values honesty more than anything else—both in his music and his approach to life. His latest project, “Intlambululo:Ukuhlambulula” invites listeners to confront themselves and their roles in the world. Mandisi Dyantyis is set to perform at the upcoming Joy of Jazz Festival, a prestigious event where his performances are always eagerly anticipated..

When asked how he balances honoring his roots while evolving his sound for modern audiences, Dyantyis had a refreshingly humble response: he doesn’t overthink it. “I just write about me—about how I’ve grown up and how I’m growing,” he explains. “I think it’s important that instead of focusing on external factors, you first look inwardly. That way, you can be honest and connect with the art in a meaningful way.”

Speaking more about his latest project “Intlambululo:Ukuhlambulula”, in a world filled with distractions and finger-pointing, Dyantyis challenges his listeners to reflect on their own lives. “We need to start with ourselves,” he says. “This project is about facing who we are, our roles in our communities, and our lives.” For Dyantyis, music is not just about entertainment but also a platform for introspection, growth, and connection.

His passion for live performances, particularly with his larger ensemble of a 22-piece band, further illustrates his dedication to musical storytelling. Dyantyis admits that performing with such a large group is always nerve-wracking but also a unique experience for audiences, offering them a richer, more complex version of the music they love. “These shows are always extra special,” he shares. “The music becomes much denser, harmonically and rhythmic. It’s an opportunity to present the songs in a new way.”

Returning to the Joy of Jazz Festival, Dyantyis expresses a sense of awe and gratitude. “Playing it once would’ve been enough for me,” he confesses, yet here he is again, ready to display his talent on one of South Africa’s biggest jazz stages. But for Dyantyis, it is not just about playing for the festival crowd—it is about celebrating with his audience. “We dreamed about this together. So, when I perform, it is a way of saying,

‘Look, we did it. We belong here.’”

A natural storyteller, Dyantyis also believes that narrative is a particularly important factor to his music. “Storytelling is everything,” he says. “Whether it’s new stories or old, music is a great way to tell them.” For him, each song is an opportunity to prompt reflection, not only on personal experiences but also on broader societal issues. His commitment to storytelling, both through his lyrics and compositions, sets him apart as an artist who doesn’t just perform but communicates deeply with his audience.

While Dyantyis remains focused on the present, he does leave room for future collaborations and surprises. When asked about upcoming artistic ventures, he playfully responds, “I’m as clueless as you.” His approach is very fluid—allowing the music to guide him to the right collaborators and creative decisions. “If the music needs a saxophone, I’ll go get one. If it needs a choir, I’ll find one,” he says. This organic approach reflects his openness to evolving with the music rather than forcing it in any particular direction.

In closing, I asked Dyantyis about the challenges of being both a composer and performer. He responded with wisdom that is sure to resonate with artists of all ages: “Both have their highs and lows, but I always treat them as gifts.” Whether he’s alone in the studio or on stage in front of thousands, his deep sense of gratitude for his craft shines through.

Mandisi Dyantyis is more than just a musician; he is a storyteller, a truth-seeker, and an artist dedicated to crafting music that resonates on a deep, emotional level. As he continues to create and perform, it’s clear that his music will continue to inspire and challenge audiences, both old and new. If his upcoming performances and projects are anything to go by, we can expect to see even more heartfelt and thought-provoking work from this exceptional artist in the future.

If you’re looking to experience this magic firsthand don’t miss his upcoming performances, where his music will take on new depths, and are to expect powerful performances through storytelling, soul stirring rhythm’s and a celebration of life through music.