Finally celebrating solo debut

Asanda Bam laughs hysterically, and a little nervously, when she's reminded of some archived pictures from her early 20s.

In pillar-box red lipstick, a white catsuit and a not-so-great weave, she is gyrating, and in another shot she does an unsophisticated crotch grab.

Fast forward four years and recent pictures show her hair au naturel, make-up minimal and posing in an elegant Victorian, corseted gown.

The pictures tell the story of a woman who has evolved from an amateur trying too hard into an established Afro-soul sensation.

The 27-year-old recalls those days: "Wow, that was a journey. I can't remember the year but I was in [gospel ensemble] Joyous Celebration when Somizi Mhlongo [producer and choreographer] had this idea of a girl group.

"He chose four women and we were Akasia.

"It was fun. I was young and experimenting. Joyous Celebration played a big role shaping my voice. I learnt a lot from Akasia, but I have moved on."

She certainly has.

Bam left Port Elizabeth as a 20-year-old, joining Joyous Celebration under the leadership of Jabu Hlongwane, Lindelani Mkhize and Mthunzi Namba.

When her individual talent emerged, she became a backing vocalist, working with recognised artists in the Afro-jazz industry. Her journey has included working with Gloria Bosman, Thandiswa Mazwai, Swazi Dlamini, Mafikizolo and international stars like Angelique Kidjo and Jamelia.

Her debut album Fragile is the signature performance of Old Mutual Jazz at the Theatre in Johannesburg next weekend.

"I'll perform 10 songs from my album, some from Ma Miriam [Makeba], a few classic songs, redoing them my own way."

The album was produced by Luyanda Madope.

"It was difficult to start writing songs and find good people to work with, but I was blessed to have the most respected musicians in town on the album. In the end, something beautiful came out of it."

She has had rave reviews following her tours in Africa.

"People are receiving my music so well. I didn't have any difficulties. There was a lot of love," she says.

When she isn't travelling to perform, she travels for leisure.

"I love travelling in Africa. If I get a little space, I fly out. My favourite has to be Malawi. It is a beautiful country.

"Soon people will hear what Asanda is about and where I see myself as a musician, an African soul singer. I'm expecting a lot of good things after the show," she says.

• The Old Mutual Jazz at the Theatre concert takes place at The Theatre on the Square in Sandton on August 7