Music for the people by the people with the people. Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (BCUC) is a collective from Soweto, South Africa. With their music, direct from the ancestors, BCUC question the common worldview on modern Africa. As seen at Sauti za Busara 2019 and other festivals worldwide, BCUC move audiences, physically and emotionally, with an explosion of passion, funk and rhythm.

The basic ingredients of BCUC’s sound are the traditional whistle, percussion, bass and rocking guitar. Topped by the raw combative voice of Jovi, flowing raps by Luja and Hloni, the sweet and clear vocals of Kgomotso – the only woman in the band – and chants of all four in harmony.

BCUC take the audience on an intriguing journey to the secret worlds of modern Africa. They challenge western assumptions and show post-apartheid South Africa from a young, energetic and contemporary perspective. In eleven languages, BCUC tap into the elusiveness of the spirit world that fascinates them. At the same time, they discuss harsh local realities where the unemployed worker forever stays at the bottom of the food chain. Finally we realise BCUC’s Africa is not poor at all, but rich in traditions, rituals and beliefs.

“We see ourselves as modern freedom fighters who have to tell the story of Soweto’s past, present and future to the world.” – ‘Jovi’ Nkosi, vocalist