Oliver Weindling writes:
Going right the way back to our foundation in 1987, David Mossman built relationships with some of the most influential musicians on the UK scene. Not least of these was Louis Moholo-Moholo.
Louis Moholo-Moholo, who has just died at the age of 85, was the last of the great influential Blue Notes, the seminal South African band, including Chris McGregor, Dudu Pukwana and Johnny Dyani which arrived in London in 1965 and exploded on the scene.
We were lucky to experience such a range of performances from him over the years at the Vortex, in such a range of bands. Whether it be one of his large groups, such as Viva La Black or his Octet, or in duo with some extraordinary pianists, such as Keith Tippett, Irene Schweizer or Alexander Hawkins, or in his latter-day working group, The Four Blokes.
So much joy and energy exuded from him, though there was clearly thought behind his spontaneity. His skittering drumming was unforgettable
And his influence continues, amongst the cohort of musicians whom he trained. Steve Williamson, Alexander Hawkins, Jason Yarde, John Edwards were amongst the “chosen ones” and, with such amazing musicians, we shall hear the influence of South African jazz, as though the filter of Louis, for generations to come.
Below we include a sample of the music with Paul Dunmall, Alan Tomlinson, Alexander Hawkins and Olie Brice.
Both this and the photo are by Andrew Newcombe, taken in 2011 at the Vortex
Ungaphumla ngoxolo