Any talk on the production of Shaka iLembe, draws one to the essence of Africa’s Renaissance, when an artistic output is perceived as signalling “a monumental historical shift” in the life of a people, the documentation of the story is of world class, yafaka umlando impilo ukuze uhambisane nathi (giving life to history to walk with us).
The captivating world of Shaka iLembe is a series set in the late 1700s to early 1800s that takes you on a journey through the making of an iconic African king. Filled with conflict, action, romance, betrayal, sacrifice, triumph, and loss, this epic tale has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide.
The Shaka iLembe soundtrack is a magnificent musical collaboration that brings the story to life. Featuring a diverse range of genres, from Afrotech to AfroSoul, amapiano to Afrobeat, and traditional Zulu songs called amahubo, this album is a celebration of the rich musical heritage of Africa. The commercial soundtrack includes both original compositions from the series and inspired tracks that perfectly complement the narrative.
On reviews from IMDB (or Internet Movie Database), One person said …"This interpretation is actually one of the best, and well-funded. The set and world building is out of this world. The actors are amazing. The dialogue is even more intriguing, storyline is on point". Another one said … "Shaka iLembe is a well researched story, filmed magnificently …Production quality is amazing, the scenery stunningly beautiful, the characters authentic and the narrative spellbinding.”
On recognition, Shaka iLembe won and received the Best Costume Design and the Best African Actress award, the two awards were awarded to Sheli Masondo, who is the costume designer and Nomzamo Mbatha for her role as Queen Nandi. The Actor Lemogang Letsipa was also nominated for his role as the young Shaka Zulu under the category of Best African Actor.
The Best Costume Design award recognizes the importance of costumes as a tool to tell the story, to communicate the details of a character's personality to the audience, and to help actors transform into new and believable people on screen.
On her own words, Sheli Masondo said …
“I visited KwaZulu-Natal museums, went through the archives, met with historians, searched across the continent for inspiration, to make sure that I got the look of the period right. For example, a Mbata is a Zulu traditional chest guard handmade from animal skin, exclusively worn by the Royal family. Only the king or his wife can wear leopard skin.”
“When I created the costumes for the show, to derive inspiration, I walked empty fields – looking at the birds, the trees, their bark, the fine textures, the veins on the leaves.”
“It was very emotional for me. It was more than design. It was like stepping into my ancestor’s shoes and I was blown away by how creative they were, using whatever surrounded them.”
“There were no lace ribbons, fabric, sequins and beads… they used the natural things around them.”
“It was a spiritual moment for me. I was blessed that I had support. People from Kwa Ndebele, from KZN, and from Johannesburg… they could translate everything that I envisioned, that I had brought back from my research into Shaka Ilembe costumes.”
On Shaka iLembe soundtrack and the musical performance, the TV series creates an emotional atmosphere and taking an audience into the theatrical life of history.
Mbuso Khoza, Anne Masina - Njomane (Nandi's Theme) | LYRIC VIDEO - Shaka iLembe Track Title: Nandi's Theme (Njomane); Artists: Mbuso Khoza, Anne Masina, Phillip Miller, Ludvig Gawell & Hamilton Eklöf; Composer(s): Phillip Miller, Ludvig Gawell & Hamilton Eklöf; Author(s): Mbuso Khoza
Here is what fans have said … “I can't explain what happens to me when I listen to this. I don't know whether to call it a song. But it wouldn't be fitting. This is musical magic. Siphiwe (were are gifted). So much gift” … “Queen Nandi would be so proud” ….“It so invoke the spirit like literally one is with the elders who are gone. This is POWER OF AFRIKA. Ngyathobeka”
On what does iLembe mean in Zulu, Sihle Ngobese puts it very well…
“iLembe” as a word means “axe”. However, in reference to Zulu kings it finds origin to the praise name of King Shaka, who was; “ILembe eleqa amanye amaLembe nkokukhalipha” (The axe that surpasses other aces in sharpness).
Shaka iLembe … yafaka umlando impilo ukuze uhambisane nathi (giving life to history to walk with us).
Shaka iLembe
Spellbinding …
Siphiwe (were are gifted) …
