Cape Town, South Africa, is known for its vibrant music scene, with a rich heritage of jazz that echoes through its streets. Among the many artists who have found inspiration in this lively city is Lerato Pakade, a talented photographer with an unquenchable passion for jazz.
Her story is quite interesting, Lerato grew up surrounded by the rhythms of jazz. At a young age, Lerato used to drag her parents to attend Jazz shows since she was a huge fan. It was in those dimly lit venues, with the sultry sounds of saxophones and the syncopated beats of drums, that Lerato discovered her love for the art of jazz.
As she grew older, Lerato’s fascination with jazz deepened. She became entranced by the way the music seemed to tell stories, evoking emotions and painting pictures with its melodies and improvisations. She found herself drawn not only to the music itself, but also to the people who made it – the musicians, the dancers, and the devoted fans who gathered to experience its magic.
She then started collecting black and white photographs of famous artists such as Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba.
Armed with a camera, Lerato set out to capture the soul of jazz in Cape Town. She began attending jazz gigs and concerts, camera in hand, ready to document the moments that unfolded on stage and off. Her keen eye and deep appreciation for the music allowed her to capture the essence of jazz in her photographs – the passion, the energy, and the raw emotion that pulsed through every note.
Her candid shots of musicians lost in the groove, dancers swaying to the rhythm, and fans immersed in the music resonated with people on a profound level. Her work was featured in local jazz publications and exhibited in galleries, earning her a reputation as one of the most talented jazz photographers in the city.
One of her most cherished memories was capturing a candid shot of a legendary singer Simphiwe Dana during a late-night jam session. The musician, lost in the music, looked like a goddess who echoes the notes from her soul. Lerato’s photograph captured the intensity of the moment, the majestic hair style she had, her white dress glowing in the dim light, and the sheer joy of creating music.
Today, Lerato’s work continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Her photographs are exhibited in galleries and museums, and her unique perspective on jazz has gained a lot of recognition. Yet, she remains grounded in her love for the music and the people who make it.
Main Image: Nounouche
