A music event to welcome recess? “Count us in” is what could be read from the sold-out poster on Fonque Fest’s Instagram. On Friday 28 March the Fonque Fest Club House hosted its third and much anticipated event, Eyethu, where music and community were at the heart of the sound experience. More than just a venue hall – the space allowed for inclusivity and diversity, catering to the underrepresented lovers of Deep House and Amapiano in Stellenbosch’s nightlife scene.
Stellenbosch’s nightlife has been slow to diversify, with Centraal having been one of the only bars playing Amapiano. After the closure of the bar, many were left seeking alternatives. To satisfy their musical preferences, they found themselves traveling to Cape Town “to hear those types of sounds,” as third-year BA (Humanities) student Ayabonga Gqiba put it, which shows the lengths many went to in order to enjoy the music they love.
The hype around Eyethu quickly grew. “It’s one of the few events in Stellenbosch that promised Amapiano [music sets],” said attendee Lethu Dube, highlighting the event’s distinct appeal. People eagerly anticipated the night, knowing it would bring the pulsating rhythms of Amapiano and a fresh twist to Stellenbosch’s nightlife. “It’s been challenging,” Chrïstiān, an Amapiano and Afrobeats DJ who performed at the event, admitted when asked about securing gigs in Stellenbosch. “But Fonque Fest has given us the chance to showcase our talents.”
As the night progressed, the crowd grooved to not only house music but also to a mix of popular Hip-Hop songs. The atmosphere was electric, with people swaying to the rhythm and cheering for their maestros. After his set, DJ Teegan shared that Fonque Fest had achieved its goal: “To create a more inclusive space [within] Stellenbosch’s nightlife.” Attendees were effusive in their praise, with many remarking on how the event felt both welcoming and culturally enriching. A number of guests expressed their enthusiasm, noting that they would eagerly recommend future events like Eyethu, appreciating the inclusive and vibrant energy that defined the night.
Event coordinator Kamogelo April told Die Matie that the goal was to push the boundaries of Stellenbosch’s nightlife: “[We] want to have a space catered to different music tastes.” His co-coordinator Kamogelo Mabitsela explained that their aim was “to broaden the social landscape for different cultures in Stellenbosch […] [and] offer people of color more options when going out.” He also reflected on the intended impact of the event, calling it an effort to “fill the gap” in local nightlife.
Eyethu was an evening of great music, culture, and unforgettable moments. Whether driven by curiosity or a cosmopolitan spirit, the next time there’s an event, don’t just hear about it – grab a ticket, show up, and feel the funk.
By Tenisha Taylor
