Old Mutual Music at the Lake, together with East Coast Radio, presents Folk Fest: a selection of South Africa’s finest acts at the Durban Botanic Gardens on Sunday 28 July.

Freshlyground, Majozi and Louise Carver will showcase a brand new take on their much-loved music in a series of acoustic sets at KwaZulu-Natal’s premier outdoor music venue.

Freshlyground are known not only for their lively beats and sing-along music in various South African languages and using a wide range of musical instruments, but also for a larger-than-life stage presence that moves audiences to their feet.

As one of South Africa’s most successful acts, they’ve been releasing chart-topping albums since 2002. Their hit singles include Doo Be Doo, which became the most played song in South Africa in 2005.

Freshlyground have done it all: from multi-platinum records and sold-out tours to international stages, prestigious awards and even an official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Remember Waka Waka – This Time for Africa featuring Shakira? Who could forget!

Freshlyground performed Waka Waka live at the FIFA Kickoff Concert and again at the World Cup closing ceremony in Johannesburg, which was broadcast to over a billion people. Waka Waka has sold well over 3 million singles and reached number 1 on charts worldwide. The song is the most successful anthem in the history of the FIFA World Cup and introduced Freshlyground and their Afro-pop to a multitude of new fans across the globe.

Joining Freshlyground will be local Durban musician Majozi. He’s been an artist to watch since the music industry welcomed him onto the scene in 2013. He’s signed with Universal Music, and has a debut album on the iTunes Top 3, millions of streams on Spotify, and collaborations with globally recognised artists such as Tresor and The Soweto Gospel Choir.

The legendary Louise Carver will also be taking to the stage to entertain the crowds. Having signed her first record deal at the age of 15, released a debut single at 17 and her first full-length album at just 18 years of age, she’s wasted no time in creating award-winning, chart-topping music.

The oldest surviving botanic gardens in Africa, and Durban’s oldest public institution, the Durban Botanic Gardens will once again provide a naturally beautiful and welcoming space for families and friends to get together for a mellow afternoon of folksy entertainment.

Martin Clement, Curator of the Durban Botanic Gardens praises the impact that Music at the Lake has on the Gardens. “Music at the Lake has developed a great socially cohesive and vibrant tradition over many years by bringing people young and old from diverse backgrounds together to enjoy the beauty, heritage and unique ambiance of the Gardens. This year is particularly special in that the Gardens celebrates 170 years as Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden and our City’s oldest public institution; programmes such as Music at the Lake contribute in helping to refresh and celebrate our Gardens heritage, reminding one why our City’s natural environment, public gardens and parks are essential for our collective urban wellbeing.”

“We’re proud of the growing role we play in supporting music and nurturing talent in South Africa,” says Thobile Tshabalala, Head of Brand, Old Mutual.

“What makes the Old Mutual Music at the Lake events so special is that we’re able to bring people together to be inspired and energised by both great talent and beautiful natural surroundings. By buying tickets, concert-goers support South African artists and contribute to the maintenance of the Durban Botanic Gardens. It’s all about creating shared value and social harmony, and we’re delighted to be a part of this initiative.”

Early bird tickets for Folk Fest are available via www.webtickets.co.za. The cost is R140 for adults, R80 for children between 6 and 12, and R20 for children under 6. Gates will open at 12:30 on Sunday 28 July, with the first act taking to the stage from 13:00. Secure parking is available on the umPhafa field at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Attendees are invited to spend the afternoon picnicking on the beautiful lawns, and are welcome to bring their own food, drink, blankets and camping chairs.

For more information about this and other Old Mutual Music at the Lake concerts, visit www.musicatthelake.co.za or contact the Durban Botanic Gardens on 031 322 4021.