Afrikaans rock at Goethe tonight!
In this month’s edition of Night Under the Stars hosted by the Goethe-Institut in the capital, a unique experience awaits as Janelle Botha & Die Wandelaars (pictured) take the stage for an evening that promises to challenge to redefine your perception of Afrikaans music.Janelle Botha & Die Wandelaars are not your typical pop-rock band. Originally formed for the Camp Rock Festival in 2023, this energetic group features some of Namibia’s most skilled musicians, including Tyrant Roots on guitar, Kyle Syria on bass, Wayne Witzel on drums, and Marika on classical violin. Together, they create a sound that is as vibrant and diverse as the country they call home.
Janelle Botha, the voice and heart of the band, has a mission: to reshape the way people think about Afrikaans music. “I’ve come to realise that Afrikaans music, especially within the rock genre, has the power to connect deeply with listeners, much like any other genre,” Janelle explains. “There’s a misconception out there, and I want to break that. Singing in Afrikaans has become a way for me to express myself more authentically and to show others that this language carries a unique beauty and cultural depth.”
This concert is not just about the music - it’s about connecting with something that feels familiar yet fresh. Janelle’s journey from scepticism to passionate advocacy for Afrikaans music is reflected in every note she sings, making this performance an invitation to experience the language and the culture in a whole new light.
Doors open at 18:00 and the show starts at 19:00. Tickets cost N$50 at the doors.