The city of Gauteng toasting to Lebo M's legacy while he is surrounded by friends and colleagues.
Legacy, pride, and a deep sense of home filled the air in Rosebank as South Africa’s creative elite gathered to honour a living legend. Under the golden lights of The Atrium in the Trumpet Building, an extraordinary tribute unfolded for one of the country’s most iconic musical exports — Lebo M.
The event, titled “I’M FROM SOWETO: From Soweto to the World”, wasn’t just a celebration of a man. It was a celebration of a journey — a 30-year story of triumph told through music that transcended borders and time.
Born in Tladi, Soweto, Lebo M rose from the heartbeat of Johannesburg’s townships to stages around the world. His work on The Lion King soundtrack not only earned him a Grammy but also cemented his place as one of the most recognizable voices and composers in global cinema. Yet, through all the accolades, he’s never forgotten where he comes from. And on this night, neither did anyone else.
Hosted by media personality and fellow Sowetan, Tbo Touch, the event brought together a constellation of local stars, creatives, and leaders who came to pay homage.
Even political and media heavyweights were in attendance. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi spoke passionately about Lebo M’s contribution to national pride, while GQ South Africa’s Editor-in-Chief Molife Kumona reflected on the rare intersection of cultural influence, artistry, and legacy that Lebo M represents.
One of the most poignant moments of the night came with the unveiling of a billboard in Orlando’s Vilakazi Street, steps from Lebo M’s childhood home. Towering and bold, the billboard now bears his image — a beacon for young dreamers in Soweto, a physical marker of how far homegrown greatness can go.
As part of the evening’s excitement, attendees also got an exclusive preview of the upcoming Lebo M Live concert, set to take place in Cape Town on April 18. If the preview was anything to go by, the full show promises to be a spectacular fusion of orchestral power and raw township soul — a sonic journey through a life steeped in music and meaning.
Throughout the evening, one phrase seemed to echo louder than all others: “Creams are made. Creams are born. And Soweto is in us.” It was more than a slogan. It was a reminder that Soweto is not just a place on the map, but a spirit, a rhythm, a cultural force that has birthed some of the world’s most formidable talents.
Lebo M’s story is proof that music is more than entertainment — it is memory, heritage, and a form of storytelling that can travel across continents while remaining grounded in home. And in honoring him, South Africa honored the very best of itself.
As the night drew to a close, conversations hummed with admiration, and the sense of shared pride was unmistakable. For some, it was a nostalgic homecoming. For others, a call to keep dreaming. But for everyone in that room, it was clear: this was not just about the past 30 years — it was about the next generation inspired by Lebo M’s incredible journey from Soweto to the world.