A multi-instrumentalist, naturalist, and spiritual seeker based in Daveyton on the East Rand, Karabo Mohlala is a distinctive voice in South African jazz. His work is a living archive of the country’s musical heritage, blending technical prowess with a deep, cultural rootedness. His primary instruments—the saxophone, flute, and the traditional akadinda (a three-ranged wooden xylophone)—serve as his tools for a lifelong exploration of sound, identity, and community .
Groomed in a family of jazz lovers and collectors, Karabo’s formal journey began in 1993 at the Madimba Institute of African Music in Soweto under the mentorship of the late arts giant, Matsemela Manaka . It was here that his artistic wings unfurled and he developed a deep affinity for the akadinda. Seeking to fuse his passion with academic rigor, he later honed his craft at the Music Academy of Gauteng in Daveyton under the legendary Dr. Johnny Mekoa, acquiring the formal vocabulary that would define his career .
His artistic mission is to see the rich tapestry of African culture and folk music fused with contemporary jazz. This vision has led him to reach “the heights of understanding the spiritual and cultural significance of culture in music,” a pursuit that connects his work as a musician with his practice as a herbalist. His 2024 project, Tsoseletso Sessions, epitomizes this philosophy. Described as “a three-part dialogue with self and community,” it revives the wonder of formative musical experiences. The first installment, Tsoseletso Vol. 1.1 – In the Spirit of Malopo, was held at the Afrikan Freedom Station in Sophiatown, drawing from the tradition of Malopo and the improvisational daring of avant-garde greats like Zim Ngqawana and Rahsaan Roland Kirk .
Karabo’s profound musicianship has made him a sought-after collaborator, placing him in the studio and on stage with an extraordinary roster of South African legends. He has recorded with the late, great Hugh Masekela, contributing his baritone saxophone to the SAMA award-winning album, Time . His discography and performance history also feature work with iconic figures such as Jonas Gwangwa, Don Carlos, and tenor saxophone master Ratau Mike Makhalemele . His versatility extends to the big band setting, having been a founder member of the 9th Avenue Big Band and performed with the acclaimed ensemble Skokiana, led by guitarist Sazi Dlamini .
A pivotal chapter in his career was his five-year journey with the renowned production, African Footprint, from 2001 to 2005. As a saxophonist and flautist, this experience saw him perform on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, from St. James’ Palace in London to the opening of the ICC Cricket World Cup in Cape Town, and on extensive tours of Europe and Australia.
Today, Karabo continues to be a vital presence in the contemporary jazz scene. He has shared the stage with a new generation of stars, including Thandi Ntuli and The Brother Moves On at the Soweto International Jazz Day . In 2022, he was invited to perform with his band at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz . Beyond the formal stage, he is also known as a humble “busker” in Rosebank, a practice he sees as a pure form of artistic expression and direct connection with the community . Whether in an intimate collaboration or on a major festival stage, Karabo Mohlala remains a seeker, using his horn to explore the spiritual and cultural soul of South Africa.
Career Highlights & Notable Collaborations
Selected Performances & Projects
- 2025: Featured saxophonist with the legendary jazz ensemble Skokiana at the UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music .
- 2024: Presented Tsoseletso Vol. 1.1 – In the Spirit of Malopo at the Afrikan Freedom Station, Sophiatown .
- 2024: Collaborative performance with movement artist Sami Maseko and others for the experimental “Wake Up Child” showcase .
- 2022: Performed at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz .
- 2019: Performed at the Macufe Festival with the Karabo Mohlala Quartet.
- 2018: Performed at the Soweto International Jazz Day alongside Thandi Ntuli and The Brother Moves On .
Recording & Performance Collaborations
- Hugh Masekela: Played baritone saxophone on the SAMA Award-winning album, Time (2002) .
- Jonas Gwangwa: Recording and performance collaborator .
- Ratau Mike Makhalemele: Shared the stage and recorded together .
- Don Carlos: Performed with the legendary artist on his South African tour .
- Skokiana: Featured saxophonist with the long-standing ensemble led by Sazi Dlamini (2025) .
- McCoy Mrubata: Played baritone saxophone on the Brasskap Sessions.
- Sami Maseko: Collaborative performance project (2024) .
- Moeketsi Koena: Played baritone saxophone on the studio recording of “B