Botswana is set to witness a groundbreaking musical celebration on Sunday, 16 March 2025, as All Things Musical presents Breezing featuring WDP and Friends. This historic event will showcase three renowned ensembles—WDP, the Botswana Society for Jazz Education (BOSJE), and the Grow2Black Collective—performing live at Mo’s Open Table in Fairgrounds from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
To ensure the event reaches jazz enthusiasts across the country, dedicated radio broadcasts will air on Duma FM and Gabz FM from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the same day. This innovative approach highlights the transformative power of combining traditional radio with advanced digital live streaming, making the event accessible to a global audience.
While terrestrial radio has long been a staple of Botswana’s broadcasting history, this marks the first time such an event has been organised outside of state media. With both Duma FM and Gabz FM available online, the potential audience spans the globe, offering unprecedented exposure for Botswana’s jazz scene.
The concert will celebrate the diversity of local jazz, with each band bringing its unique flavor to the stage. WDP will perform local covers, BOSJE will present regional and international classics, and the Grow2Black Collective will showcase original compositions. This eclectic mix promises an entertaining and enlightening experience for jazz lovers of all tastes.
The event draws inspiration from internationally successful models like the BBC Proms in the United Kingdom, which has featured global stars such as Laura Mvula, Siyabonga Mthembu, and Yo-Yo Ma. By integrating live radio broadcasts with digital streaming, the BBC Proms has reached millions worldwide while creating branding opportunities for sponsors. All Things Musical aims to replicate this success, using Breezing featuring WDP and Friends as a proof-of-concept to elevate Botswana’s creative industry.
The recent floods in Botswana demonstrated the willingness of corporate entities to contribute unrestricted funds to worthy causes. The creative sector now appeals to these same players to support initiatives that provide access to the enshrined right to culture for all citizens.
By emulating global best practices, Breezing featuring WDP and Friends is poised to become a catalyst for value chain development in Botswana’s creative industry. The event not only offers substantial commercial returns for sponsors through integrated media exposure but also supports local talent and youth employment.
“All Things Musical is proud to pioneer this innovative model that bridges the gap between traditional and digital media,” said Leroy Nyoni, Director of All Things Musical. “Our event is designed to elevate the local jazz scene and serve as a launchpad for future creative collaborations, all while driving significant commercial benefits for our partners.”
For those in the capital, the event offers a chance to experience the magic of live jazz alongside fellow music lovers. For those farther away, the airwaves will bridge the distance, allowing everyone to share in the jubilant atmosphere of Gaborone from the comfort of their homes or wherever they may be.
