Big Little Concepts stumbled upon a gem when they found Jabulile Majola. This Cape Town singer-songwriter isn’t interested in playing it safe; he pours his soul onto the stage, raw and unfiltered, whether it’s the intimacy of the Big Little Concepts cameras or the gritty honesty of the Concept Records studio. Forget manufactured popstars and predictable narratives — Jabulile’s story is woven from vulnerability, resilience, and a killer set of pipes (seriously!). So grab your earbuds and get ready to dive into the depths of musical magic with Jabulile Majola — this is real, unscripted storytelling, Big Little Concepts style:
Q: Tell us about the origin story of your musical career. Was there a defining moment, a love for a specific genre, or just a spontaneous jam session that sparked it all?
A: I started doing music at a very young age. I wasn’t necessarily doing one genre. I just had a love for music as a whole.
Q: How did it feel rocking out in the iconic Concept Records studio? Did the environment inspire anything unexpected in your performance?
A: I enjoy honesty and rawness and I think that the simplicity of the space evokes that. It evokes vulnerability. I don’t look for safe spaces to be vulnerable, I look for spaces that evoke vulnerability no matter what and where they may be.
Q: We saw a glimpse of your musical magic captured in Big Little Concepts. What message or vibe did you hope to convey through your performance?
A: That everyone has a story and every story has a redemption point, no matter the context or circumstance. Light will always infiltrate darkness no matter what your story is. Even in the midst of darkness, you can find light. Light doesn’t need darkness to be absent in order for it to be effective.
Q: What other creative outlets fuel your artistic fire besides music? Whether it’s visual art, poetry, or even a killer sourdough starter, share your hidden talents!
A: Poetry, cycling and climbing mountains. Prayer also helps me think less of problems that hinder my creativity.
Q: As a Cape Town musician, what excites you most about the city’s vibrant music scene? Any hidden gems or unsung heroes you’d recommend checking out?
A: I love the small community we have in Cape Town when it comes to the indie scene. I love the loose feel of the little industry here. I love Kujenga, the jazz band. They are doing amazing stuff. Bravo le Roux is also a great rapper. Chosi is also super cool — I enjoy her music.
Q: What’s on the horizon for you beyond Big Little Concepts? Upcoming gigs, new releases, or any wild dreams you’re chasing – spill the beans!
A: There is a lot of music coming up in 2024 — lots of shows as well.
Q: If you could trade musical styles with any local artist for a day, who would it be and why?
A: Dr Madala Kunene. I just love the way he plays guitar.
Q: What’s the one record that forever holds a special place in your heart? The soundtrack to your childhood, a family heirloom, or a recent discovery that blew your mind – tell us the story behind your musical treasure.
A: ‘Gibel’ Inkwenkwezi’ by Msaki. It’s a song about a boy who would climb on top of his mother’s roof so he could ride the stars. One of the most underrated songs by Msaki.
Q: If you could collaborate with any musician, living or dead, who would it be and why?
A: I think the list here is endless but if I have to choose one, I’d pick Msaki. She’s an amazing writer — both in English as well as isiXhosa.
Q: Ten years from now, how do you hope to be remembered in the Cape Town music scene?A: As a consistent writer as well as an unwaveringly diligent artist.Bonus Q: Share a fun fact, a quirky anecdote, or a hidden talent that might not be immediately obvious from your music.
A: I am very into rap music and I am working on a rap project in secret.
Jabulile Majola leaves you breathless. Not with smoke and mirrors, but with the quiet power of genuine artistry. Big Little Concepts captured a rare glimpse into the soul of this musician, poet, mountain climber, and (shhh!) secret rapper. His words shimmer with honesty, his voice carries the scars and light of lived experience, and his music… well, his music is a revelation. As the final notes of his Big Little Concepts performance fade, you’re left with a sense of awe and a hunger for more.
But trust us, this is just a taste of the magic Jabulile unleashes. To witness the full force of his artistry, you need to see his raw, unfiltered performance in all its glory. Head over to Big Little Concepts’ YouTube channel right now and prepare to be blown away. Trust us, your eardrums (and your soul) will thank you. Hit that play button and let Jabulile Majola show you what real music is all about. You won’t regret it.
