Legendary South African artist Vusi Mahlasela recently shared profound insights into the importance of hope and the challenges it faces, stating in an interview with GroundUp before a performance at the Baxter theatre that "Hope is very important. But hope is also difficult, unlike cynicism." He further emphasized the critical role of hope for a nation, noting, "If people have lost hope, totally, then the country is finished." These reflections highlight a core tenet of his artistic and personal philosophy.

Mahlasela's performance at the Baxter theatre was a captivating blend of songs and stories drawn from his life experiences, particularly his upbringing in the Mamelodi township and his formative years as an anti-apartheid activist. He was accompanied on stage by talented musicians, with Dizu Plaatjies on percussion and Jerry Tsholofelo Papo on guitar, and joined by singer Crescens Katerus, creating a rich musical experience that resonated with his audience.

A self-taught musician, Mahlasela recounted his humble beginnings and creative resourcefulness. He shared with GroundUp, "I started playing with guitars that I built myself," explaining how he and his friends would ingeniously craft instruments from everyday items such as jam tins, atchar containers, fishing nets, and mattress springs. "We were very creative when we were young," he reflected, illustrating the innovative spirit that shaped his early musical development.

His immersion into music also served as an unexpected gateway to politics. Mahlasela recalled falling in love with music through performances at his grandmother's shebeen, which also served as an informal meeting place for political discussions. "It so happened that through music, I was introduced to politics as well, because some of the guys coming to the shebeen would hold political meetings there," he explained. He vividly described attending his first political meeting, where the singing of "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika"—then considered the unofficial national anthem and banned by the apartheid regime—deeply impacted him, solidifying his path as an artist whose music would inherently carry messages of activism and liberation.

For Mahlasela, being on stage is a transformative experience, as he described, "When you are on stage, it is like you are in a different world." He views his role with profound purpose, stating, "You are there for a purpose... You are a troubadour. It is your cause, it is your line, it is your duty." His primary aim through his music remains to inspire and give people hope, a message he consistently delivers through his performances.

The performance was sponsored by the Cameron Schrier Foundation, with all proceeds from ticket sales directed towards the University of Cape Town's "Unlocking Futures Bursary Fund." This initiative provides essential support to UCT students, demonstrating a commitment to education and future generations. GroundUp also disclosed its funding from the Cameron Schrier Foundation, highlighting a shared philanthropic connection.