Dr Joseph Kunnuji, the resident ethnomusicologist lecturer at the Odeion School of Music (OSM), is well-known for his incredible zest for life and his passion for global sounds. Recently, he joined Yolanda Maartens in the studio – trumpet in hand – to share the story behind his soulful new collaborative album with the legendary Mlungisi Gegana: Marabi Meets Highlife.

This album is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a conceptual masterpiece. On one hand, it represents a unique collaboration between "town and gown," bringing together the rigorous world of academia with the heartbeat of community-based music practice. 

On the other, it serves as a symbolic linking of arms between two powerhouse regions: West Africa and South Africa.

Dr. Joseph Kunnuji, resident ethnomusicologist lecturer. Photo supplied

By taking the foundational genres of Highlife and Marabi as points of departure, Kunnuji and Gegana have created a sound that honours tradition while refusing to be boxed in by it. 

The music explores new sonic possibilities that move far beyond fixed genre identities.

From the concert stage to the studio

The magic began back in 2025 during a concert for the OSM series, where Kunnuji (trumpet and percussion) and Gegana (bass) first shared a stage, sparking an eight-track project, with each artist contributing four original compositions.

Recorded at the historic Miriam Makeba Studio at the University of Fort Hare in East London, the album features a stellar lineup of local talent:

• Piano: Bonelela Mavuso

• Drums: Geoff Lottering

• Guitar: Quin Maritz

• Saxophone: Nateske Horton

• Trombone: Kyle Du Preez
  
  

A Celebration of Local Support

Released on 6 February 2026, this project was made possible through the support of the University of the Free State’s humanities research committee and the leadership at the OSM, including Dr Jan Beukes and Prof Frelet De Villiers. 

With mixing by Elijah Madiba and striking artwork by Ninette Pretorius, the final product is a polished, pan-African gem.

When Marabi Meets Highlife – A Rhythmic Journey Across Africa.   

Whether you are a fan of intricate brass arrangements or the deep, grounding pulse of a Marabi bassline, this album is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that music is a universal language that can bridge any distance.

Marabi Meets Highlife is now available on all major streaming platforms, including spotify. Be sure to check it out and support our local music pioneers!

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