In this Link TV special, we will be broadcasting a Link TV exclusive: “Vusi and Friends: A Benefit for 46664 the Nelson Mandela Foundation.” We will also be joined in the studio by Vuis Mahlasela who will discuss his activities with the foundation.  In a rare treat, he also sings the song "Untitled."

“Vusi Mahlasela sings as a bird does: in total response to being alive. Music was at the heart of the struggle for freedom; Vusi was there. Music is at the heart of reconstruction; Vusi's music is here to stir and delight us. He is a national treasure.”

In Part 2 of the "Songs for Change" special we talk with Vusi Mahlasela about his use of music to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS in Africa and the ways that he is trying to revive a sense of cultural heritage among South African youth. We will be broadcasting Vusi and Friends: A Benefit for 46664 the Nelson Mandela Foundation, a Link TV exclusive, documenting a concert by Mahlasela in San Francisco.

ABOUT THE CONCERT:
Vusi and Friends: A Benefit for the Nelson Mandela Campaign
Filmed at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, “Vusi Mahlasela and Friends: A Benefit for 46664 the Nelson Mandela Campaign” features the music of Vusi Mahlasela and special guests Taj Mahal, the Grateful Dead's Mickey Hart, and David Hidalgo of Los Lobos. Highlights of the concert are two country blues songs by Taj Mahal accompanied by David Hidalgo, and the stunning "Song for Thandi" written by Vusi Mahlasela, describing the extraordinary ordeal of a pregnant political prisoner facing the ultimate choice of life over death. Mahlasela's voice is a supple and emotional instrument, and his backup band lay down solid African grooves behind the master's songs. A joyous jam session in which the audience takes the stage closes out the concert.

LEARN MORE:
-- For more about Amandla!, visit the Internet Movie Database.
-- Listen to a profile of Vusi Mahlasala from NPR’s Morning Edition.
-- For more information on Long Night's Journey Into Day, visit Iris Films.