JOHANNESBURG – After 16 years in the making, Grammy-winning R&B icon Anthony Hamilton and South African songbird Zonke have finally teamed up in studio — and they’re dropping their long-awaited collaboration at one of the country’s most powerful events yet: the National Women’s Day concert this Saturday, August 9, at Wanderers Stadium in Sandton.
Joining them are a star-studded cast of music royalty — Vusi Nova, Sjava, and fellow U.S. soul legend Joe Thomas — in a spectacular tribute to the strength, beauty, and spirit of South African women.
“This show is about love. It’s about understanding what women want to hear,” Hamilton said. “And trust me, they’re in my inbox! They tell me exactly what songs to sing, and I listen.”
A 16-year musical dream realised
Though they first met in 2009, it wasn’t until 2025 that Anthony Hamilton and Zonke finally recorded music together — and fans are about to hear the magic for the first time.
“We always talked about working together, but never got the chance to make it happen,” Hamilton explained.
“But honestly, I don’t think it would’ve been the same songs or the same energy back then.”
The result? Two unreleased tracks — one featuring a traditional African chant, and the other, a groovy dance track with a splash of 1980s nostalgia.
“I’ve let her name them because they’re her babies,” Hamilton said. “I think that one is going to take over the summer.”
“I’m gonna tear ny shoes up!”
At a press briefing in Sandton, Hamilton — known for his soul-stirring voice and magnetic stage presence — vowed to leave everything on the stage.
“I’m gonna show up, show out, and tear my shoes up,” he declared, met with roaring applause.
Beyond the performance, Hamilton says the concert is a heartfelt homage to the women who inspire his music — particularly in South Africa.
“They are rich in blackness, sisterhood and African-ness; it’s just powerful,” he said. “They remind me of the best part of my family — my grandmother, my sister, my mom … they embody the same energy.”
Vusi Nova: “The imbalance must end”
Award-winning vocalist Vusi Nova used the platform to speak out against patriarchy.
“Men feel intimidated in the workplace if a woman holds a CEO position in Africa. I think that must end. Every one of us is on an equal footing.”
Nova also confirmed his own collaboration with Hamilton, called “Black Sweatshirt” — a sultry R&B track the two recorded just days ago.
“It felt even more sexy on the large speakers when we arrived at the studio,” Hamilton quipped.
A night of legends
Sharing the stage with Joe Thomas, Zonke, Nova, and Sjava, Hamilton promises a soulful journey through love, healing, and celebration.
“I haven’t met Sjava yet, but I’m looking forward to it,” Hamilton said. “He’s new to my knowing, but I can’t wait to meet him.”
From Vilakazi street to the stage
Hamilton also took time to reconnect with South Africa’s history, visiting both the Hector Pieterson Museum and Nelson Mandela’s former home in Soweto.
“In my spirit, I was able to take that in. I was at a place that only God could have planned for me,” he said. “It’s always an honour to be here, man. Every time I return, the love is even stronger.”
Tickets & booking info
Tickets are available at Computicket — but are moving fast.
SOLD OUT: R750 – R950
Still available:
- Golden Standing: R1,550
- Platinum Standing: R1,950
Bring your ID and credit card when collecting. See full ticket T&Cs at Computicket.
