MALKERNS- For one lucky fan, Zola’s performance at the Standard Bank Luju Food and Lifestyle Festival became a memory she says she will treasure forever.
The South African music icon briefly paused his energetic set on the festival’s main stage to single out a fan from the crowd before removing his signature beaded necklace, popularly known as ligcebesha, and handing it to her. The beaded accessory has become synonymous with the veteran performer, who is rarely seen on stage without it.
The recipient, 28-year-old Senamile Dlamini, could hardly contain her excitement after the emotional moment. “I feel super excited. I’m extremely excited,” she said moments after receiving the necklace.
Dlamini said she had admired the ‘Khokhovula’ hitmaker for about a decade and never imagined she would one day receive one of his trademark stage accessories. “I’ve been a fan for about 10 years,” she said.
She had attended the festival with her sister, hoping to enjoy the performance, but ended up walking away with a personal keepsake from one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.
The crowd erupted in cheers as Zola handed over the ligcebesha, with many fans capturing the moment on their mobile phones.
Throughout his set, the veteran entertainer kept the audience singing along to some of his biggest hits, including ‘Khokhovula’ and ‘Mdlwembe’. His trademark storytelling, energetic stage presence and spontaneous interaction with fans proved why he remains one of South Africa’s most enduring live performers.
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