The Mzansi Youth Choir has had its share of extraordinary moments, but their recent collaboration with global superstars Coldplay marks a new pinnacle in their inspiring journey. Together, they created something extraordinary: the second verse of Coldplay’s song We Pray, performed in a local South African language and recorded alongside the band. This collaboration not only highlights the choir’s exceptional talent but also symbolizes a powerful fusion of cultural pride and global unity.
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The Inspirational Origins of the Choir
Founded in 2003 after a life-changing incident, the Mzansi Youth Choir emerged as a beacon of hope and opportunity for young South Africans. Dr. Jannie Zaaiman, one of the founders, recalls that the choir was born as a response to adversity. “After experiencing a hijacking, we aimed to create a platform for young South Africans from diverse backgrounds to express themselves through music, steering them away from negative influences,” Zaaiman shares.
Since then, the choir has empowered over 600 young people, blending traditional South African heritage with modern musical styles. Their approach celebrates the richness of local culture while making it accessible and engaging for a new generation.
Blending Heritage with Contemporary Influences
Mzansi Youth Choir’s vision has always been to merge African roots with contemporary sounds. This balance is evident in their music, which combines elements of traditional South African songs, gospel harmonies, and modern anthems.
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“Our Roots, Our Spirit, and Our Youth shape everything we do,” explains Zaaiman. “These principles guide our performances, arrangements, and messages, promoting unity, hope, and pride while resonating across cultures and generations.” This unique approach has helped the choir forge a global identity while staying true to their South African heritage.
A Moment to Remember: Working with Coldplay
The collaboration with Coldplay was nothing short of magical. In May 2024, the choir joined the band to record two tracks, Jupiter and Aeterna. Later, in October, the choir was given an extraordinary opportunity to contribute to We Pray. Coldplay asked them to compose the second verse of the song in a local language, granting them creative freedom to make it uniquely theirs.
With only hours to prepare, the choir’s Music Director, Sidumo Nyamezele, arranged the verse overnight. Despite the tight timeline, the choir delivered a flawless performance in the studio the next day. “These choristers are incredibly experienced,” Zaaiman shares. “Even if the power goes out during a performance, they keep singing without missing a beat.”
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Camaraderie and Humility with Coldplay
Working with Coldplay wasn’t just a professional highlight; it was a deeply humbling experience. Zaaiman praises the band for their down-to-earth attitude despite their global fame. “Coldplay is number one on the Billboard charts in the USA and UK, yet they are grounded and humble. There are no egos, which aligns perfectly with our ethos,” he notes.
The mutual respect and camaraderie between Coldplay and the Mzansi Youth Choir created a powerful bond. This collaboration has elevated the choir’s international presence, introducing South African music to audiences worldwide and building bridges across cultures.
Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
The project reinforced the choir’s belief in the power of collaboration. “Music is a universal language that brings people together,” Zaaiman reflects. “We don’t just perform music; we embody the music we create, and we strive to make a difference in others’ lives through it.”
Looking ahead, the Mzansi Youth Choir dreams of expanding their reach both regionally and internationally. In October 2024, they presented their first independent production in Serengeti, Tanzania—a resounding success. They hope to continue working with artists like Coldplay and create projects addressing social issues while spreading messages of love, hope, and joy.
A Bright Future for the Mzansi Youth Choir
The partnership with Coldplay is more than a musical achievement; it is a reaffirmation of the choir’s mission to inspire and connect people through music. In a world often marked by division and struggle, the choir uses their voices to bring hope and unity.
With the doors now open to new opportunities, the Mzansi Youth Choir is ready to take their music to even greater heights. They aim to share the richness of South African culture with the world, forging meaningful connections across nations and inspiring the next generation of youth to dream big. Their collaboration with Coldplay is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary journey ahead.
