South African singer Bella Velapi, performing professionally as Belato, is preparing to take the stage at the Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival 2025 this weekend, showcasing her distinctive blend of jazz, Afro-pop, reggae, and amapiano that has earned her recognition both locally and internationally.
Born in Kariega into a musical family, Belato’s journey began in church before evolving through various musical collaborations. Her early career saw her developing her craft with bands such as Soul Fusion and Blaze Jazz Band, experiences that laid the foundation for what would become a successful solo career.
The year 2012 marked a significant milestone for Belato with the release of her debut EP featuring the tracks Walkaway, Ukulunga, and Judem.
The project received substantial airplay on regional radio stations, with one of her singles reaching the number one position on Bay FM’s charts. This early success signalled the emergence of a powerful new voice in the South African music scene.
Throughout her career, Belato has demonstrated remarkable versatility and a willingness to collaborate across musical boundaries. She has shared performance stages with some of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians, including Zonke, Thandiswa Mazwai, Sibongile Khumalo, Mafikizolo, Stimela, Mango Groove, and Cama-Gwini. These performances alongside established icons have helped solidify her position within the country’s rich musical landscape.
Belato’s artistic reach extends beyond South African borders, with international collaborations featuring prominently in her portfolio. Her work with American producer Yakheem, Jamaican artist Iqula, and South African house music producer Heavy-K demonstrates her ability to traverse diverse sonic territories whilst maintaining her distinctive vocal identity.
In 2023, after a period of artistic development, Belato released the amapiano single Mna Lo, produced by gospel legend Sizwe Zako. The track represented a new direction for the artist, embracing contemporary South African sounds whilst retaining the soulful essence that first endeared her to audiences. This release showcased her adaptability and growth as an artist willing to explore new musical territories.
Earlier this year, Belato achieved a significant career highlight when she performed at the G20 Summit, representing South Africa on the global diplomatic stage. Her performance flew the South African flag high, demonstrating the country’s rich musical heritage to an international audience.
Currently, Belato serves as one of the featured vocalists in the South African Jazz Orchestra (SANJO) at the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex. This prestigious position allows her to contribute to preserving and evolving the country’s jazz heritage while adding her bold sound to the legacy of South African jazz.
The Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival has established itself as one of the country’s premier jazz gatherings, attracting both established performers and emerging talents from across the African continent and beyond. The festival, which celebrates South Africa’s rich jazz tradition, provides a platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences passionate about the genre.
For Belato, performing at the festival represents a homecoming of sorts, allowing her to share her music with the community that has supported her throughout her career. The event will take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex (PE Opera House) Main Stage, where Belato will join other celebrated musicians for an evening of exceptional musical performances.
The festival’s organisers have described this year’s lineup as particularly special, featuring artists who represent both traditional jazz influences and contemporary interpretations that push the boundaries of the genre. Belato’s inclusion in the programme reflects her standing within South Africa’s music industry and her contribution to the country’s evolving musical identity.
As she prepares for her appearance at the Mandela Bay Jazz Legacy Festival, Belato continues to refine her craft and expand her artistic repertoire.
Festival attendees can expect a performance that traverses Belato’s diverse musical influences and celebrates the power of storytelling through song.
Tickets are R300 per person, with discounted tickets available at R200 for pensioners and students (ID required). Available at Webtickets or Pick n Pay.
