The beauty of life is often immortalized in its ability to both humble and surprise us when It throws our plans out the window and gives us better than what we expected. What I thought would be a 15-minute meeting with Malcolm Jiyane and the TRee’O (Malcolm Xorile Jiyane) this morning at Phinda Mzala Music, turned into one of the most meaningful experiences I have had in this new season.
Of course, I was looking forward to seeing him as I had so much to talk about, and when the moment arrived, there he stood. The realization that we had not seen each other in almost two years dawned on us, and a wave of emotions settled like a heavy blanket. As we mused at each other, taking in our surroundings, a definitive silence descended. You know the kind of silence where one can instinctively sense what the other person is saying, and you are completely at peace because you understand that they too understand your response? Yes, that kind of silence…
For me it was coming to the realisation that Umdali exists, and what it meant to the both of us. His first utterance confirmed our silent discussion. We laughed about how much I had put him under pressure to record his music. Come to think of it, it was over a period of 16 years! And naturally, the pressure is on again for the next 10 albums. I am not too demanding, am I now? Work with me folks, we all have a lot to gain from this pressure
On a lighter note (I think)! We unpacked Umdali track by track. Just when I thought I had Malcolm figured out, he ushered me deeper into his soul, and I saw a side of Malcolm I had never known existed. Frankly, it scares me to imagine he can access emotions buried so deep and yet produce such beautiful music from that space.
Well, what can I say, I took enough doses of him to last me until I see him again…
Watch this space… Really, really, really big things are coming. But for now my lips are sealed.
