Experience love and music at the Durban Botanic Gardens this Valentine’s weekend
This weekend, the Durban Botanic Gardens will transform into a vibrant stage for music lovers, as international music acts take to the stage.
On Saturday, couples and families alike can continue with the Valentine’s Day celebrations with the “On The Lawn” music festival.
Set within the stunning backdrop of the Durban Botanic Gardens, the concert promises an unforgettable experience filled with love, world-class music and cherished memories.
Headlining the festival is popular Mzansi singer-songwriter Matthew Mole.
With his infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics, Mole has won over fans across the nation with hits like “Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine” and “Run.”
Adding to the festival’s allure are internationally acclaimed indie-folk duo Hollow Coves.
As part of their “Nothing to Lose Tour”, the duo will showcase their organic, acoustic-driven sound, which has made waves globally.
As they prepare for their South African debut, band members Ryan Henderson and Matt Carins shared their musical journey with “Independent Media Lifestyle”.
Henderson, who initially had little interest in music, began his creative exploration with the acoustic sounds of the Australian duo Angus and Julia Stone.
This shift ignited a passion for music that led him to pick up the guitar and experiment by recording covers.
His chance encounter with Carins, facilitated by a mutual friend, eventually transformed their casual interest into a thriving music career since the duo began collaborating in 2013.
“We had no expectations, but then, one of our songs just blew up on SoundCloud,” said Henderson.
Reflecting on their journey, Carins described their ascent as crazily transformative.
“It’s been amazing. We’re so grateful we’ve been able to do this because not many people have this opportunity.”
Also gracing the stage are twin brothers Josef and Jan Prasil, known collectively as Amistat.
With a rich sound that channels the storytelling prowess of Simon & Garfunkel blended with modern influences, Amistat offers a unique experience.
Attendees will undoubtedly find inspiration in their music, which resonates with themes of love, hope and togetherness.
Where: uMphafa Field, Durban Botanic Gardens
When: Saturday, February 15, from 11am.
Cost: Tickets start from R145 and can be purchased from Webtickets. Camping chairs and small umbrellas are welcome.
“Let’s Rock”
On Sunday, February 16, music legends Tom Bailey and Midge Ure headline the much-anticipated “Let’s Rock” festival.
Known for ushering in an era of joyous retro celebrations across the UK since 2009, this iconic festival promises to deliver a nostalgic experience laden with the timeless tunes of the 80s.
The live concert will also see a variety of beloved South African musicians such as Just Jinjer, PJ Powers, Cindy Alter from Clout, John Ellis from Tree63, James Stewart from The Usual, Brent Harris and Thee Jam, grace the stage.
These local legends are set to provide a thrilling blend of music from both the past and present, ensuring that “Let’s Rock” is not merely a concert but a full-blown retro celebration.
Bailey returns to the spotlight with an all-female band featuring Angie Pollock, Amanda Kramer and Emily Dolan Davies, who are ready to revive classic hits that defined a generation.
Fans can look forward to crowd-pleasers like “Hold Me Now”, “Doctor Doctor” and “Love On Your Side”
The ensemble promises to dazzle attendees with an array of classics, ensuring an exhilarating experience reminiscent of the golden era of pop.
In a recent interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Bailey expressed his excitement for performing in SA, a personal milestone for the artist.
“I want to meet the fans, I want to play to the audiences. It’s going to be my first time in South Africa. It's been something that's taken a long time to get around to doing, so, I'm pleased and everyone in my band and the management are overjoyed.
“They're looking forward to it and if there’s one thing I ever want to take away, that’s to feel some kind of human connection and warmth with an audience.”
Adding to the excitement, Ure, known for his work with Ultravox and Band-Aid, will also take to the stage.
He is set to perform some of his greatest hits, including “If I Was” and the widely celebrated “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”.
Where: Umphafa Field, Durban Botanic Gardens.
When: Sunday, February 16, from 1pm.
Cost: Tickets start from R395 and can be purchased at Webtickets. Children aged 5 and under enter for free.