EPISODE 9: MABI
SYNOPSIS:
This week's "Inside the Juno Reactor" is dedicated to Mabi, his life and unique persona, his amazing percussion, musical skills, and cheerful character.
In this special interview shot by Ben Watkins 10 years ago at JR's Ridge Farm Studio, we hear the Mabi story: a look at his background and early life in South Africa, to then explore what then became an essential element, Mabi changed the trajectory of Juno Reactor, a collaborator for 15 years.
GUEST BIO
One of South Africa's most venerable musicians, a veteran of bands such as Malombo and Sakhile, Mabi Gabriel Thobejane is a natural born drummer. Known in the West as the 'Conga King' he has worked with Robert "Doc" Mthalane, Pops Mohamed, Miles Davis Sipho Gumede, Madala Kunene and Busi Mhlongo. Interested in bringing traditional music to a wider audience he has more recently collaborated with premier trance outfit Juno Reactor. Born 1948 in Mamelodi, South Africa, and passed on June 3, 2021.
LINKS
MABI: https://www.facebook.com/MabiThobejaneFromDanceToTrance/
BEN & JUNO REACTOR: https://www.junoreactor.com
KENJI PRODUCTIONS: https://www.kenjiproductions.co