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January 20th, 2012 in Articles by quibs
Big Loving : Low Deep TFinally, Afro house music has unearthed a soloist with a big heart, big soulful vocals and, more significantly, a ‘Big Love’ debut album out to prove it.
Who’d have thought that the late Barry White’s composed vocal could be teamed-up with Afro-beats and still sound tremendously brilliant? Don’t be mistaken, Barry White’s vocal never made it through to Afro deep-soulful house arena – it’s just unverified speculations.
The truth is that, I can publicly reveal, this is the voice of British singer-songwriter and producer Low Deep T.
The year Low Deep T launched his house music career, in 2009; he strongly made his presence felt, with the release of ‘Nothing Better Than Your Loving’; the song that championed the charts on Traxsource, one of the leading house music online stores, and defended its title for five consecutive weeks. For any artist, this is an impressive achievement.
“I think it’s because of my voice, which has become my…”
What surprises his fellow Brits is that, singing is not what made him popular, originally. The producer/songwriter spent most of his lifetime music career working behind the scene “developing singers and producing singers”, he said.
When the 2-Step UK garage popularity was still dominant back in the day, LTD was part of its success. His song writing and production skills earned him a legendary status from colleagues, who admired his talent; and who include the world superstar, Craig David.
Although working behind closed doors was comfortable for Low Deep T, the rapid changes of the music industry in recent years made Low Deep T question his position. Promoting and producing singers was simply not good enough anymore - if one has to earn a decent living. “You need to go out there and perform and do shows”, admitted the smooth talking LDT.
Performing in a public spotlight is incredibly daunting, undeniably, not everyone could survive a stage fright; nevertheless, LDT trusted his instinct and opted to step out of his comfort zone. “I had to play my last card; my last card was to get myself on the track and see what’s going on…”
Two and half years ago, Low Deep T travelled to South Africa (a country he now regards as the capital of house music) - a trip he’d never forget for musical reasons. This is the nation that displays a passionate support towards house music genre, no matter which side of the universe it comes from, without discrimination. Local radio stations, television music programs, public transport and shopping malls playlist house music consistently. Where else could one get similar scenario, globally?
The Cut & Play records CEO, Low Deep T observed this incomparable vibe during his visit in the country - though he was rather concerned: “I didn’t know if old school vocals were going to work on the house beats…” Having said that, he certainly established his main target audience; he concluded: “When I came back [to England] I was like, that’s it! We have to swing in there [South Africa]”.
LDT was genuinely inspired, he continues: “They [South African radio stations] are playing like serious soulful music. This is like heaven sent to people like us.”
It’s been a minute since the London based old school vocalist landed in the house music scene – but judging by his followers in the house music capital, South Africa, of which many attended his nationwide tour in December, 2011; this has been the best move so far, with no regrets.
Low Deep T debut album BIG LOVE; released in 2011, August, as expected, didn’t disappoint. The hit single, ‘Big Love’, is one of the current most played tunes in South African national radio stations, clubs; and its video, which was also shot in South Africa, recently made its debut on Channel O – the biggest music video TV program in Africa. The song’s success went as far as topping the charts in some radio stations in Eastern Europe.
So much success in a short period of time - what’s grabbing people’s attention about Low Deep T’s musical taste, honestly? “I think it’s because of my voice, which has become my USP (Unique Selling Point) – and it reminds few people of Barry White”
Barry White, Big Love, Craig David, Cut and Play, House Music, Low T Deep, Mzansi Show, the mzansi show
January 5th, 2012 in Articles by quibs
The voice behind Falling: Beutiful Malehloka The last time I wrote about Kensani Mabaso here, “The Coolest DJ In South Africa Set For the 2011 World Cup” it was during the build-up of the FIFA world cup 2010.
I never intended to write about Kensani again, unless there was something worth mentioning to his fans, including his 120, 853 Facebook ‘likes’ and mote than 25,793 followers on Twitter.
Ever since his unexpected musical (friendly) divorce from Kentphonik, the mega-mix prince, DJ Kent, continued to mastermind the South African house music scene. His production skills attracted various talented vocalists to collaborate with the man who is also famous for his cool and ego-free approach to normal everyday life. At this moment in time, it’s probably safe to suggest that the ‘88 Productions’ co owner and 2008/2009 SAMA award champ, Mr Mabaso, is any vocalist’s dream producer.
DJ Kent ft Relo - ‘Let’s Fall in Love Again’; DJ Kent ft Jodi Gold - ‘Miss You’ and DJ Kent ft Malehloka - ‘Falling’ are among previous national house anthems blessed by DJ Kent production touch. He’s currently in the studio working with Donald Moatshe, who is also celebrating the success of his latest hit single, I Deserve.
“I doubted myself, until I heard Malehloka’s voice to confirm my initial guess”
Like I said, the reason I decided to devote my time to writing this article was to update DJ Kent comrades about his musical progress internationally. But before I move on, let me clarify some rumours to house music fanatics back home. The rumours are true, South African house music has reached a world stage, finally. Black Coffee MTV nomination and DJ Mujava’s MOBO previous nomination were just the signs of better things to come.
Now permit me to talk about the highlight of my boxing day, 26th December 2011. When I woke up early in the morning, I had one thought in my mind: Sales, sales and more sales.
For those who are not familiar with the British culture back home in Africa, the day after Christmas is also iconic for its massive price reductions in many shops.
Off I rushed to the shops, like everyone else around my beloved city of Norwich, Norfolk. One of the shops I visited was Zara clothing, the world fashion retailer with more than sixty stores in the UK alone. As usual, I went upstairs to men’s department, the music was playing in the background but I didn’t pay much attention to it; a minute later, as I was walking around the shop searching for better deals, I heard beats which sounded familiar to my ears. “Wait!” I stopped moving. “Could this be ‘Falling’ by DJ Kent ft Malehloka?” I doubted myself, until I heard Malehloka’s voice to confirm my initial guess.
Kent…What? This is not Nandos, where I’d expect to hear African sounds, surely. I beamed with delight before I updated my Facebook status to report the news. The last time I got that pleasure it was when DJ Mujava - ‘Township Funk’ was record of the week on Sara Cox show, BBC Radio 1.
This was not the end of it, I asked one of the sales assistant, visibly pleased: “This is a South African song, where do you get the music from?” She referred me to the store manager, who told me that the music comes from the country that gave birth to the Zara retailer, Spain - sent to their head office in London then distributed to the UK stores.
So DJ Kent ft Malehloka - ‘Falling’ is playing daily in one of the world famous clothing retailers, Zara. That deserves a shout out, don’t you think?
dj kent, Dj Mujava, Dj Mujava township funk, Donald Moatshe, I Deserve, Jodi Gold, kentphonik, Let's fall in love again, Malehloka, Miss You, Relo, SAMA, Zara
January 31st, 2011 in Articles by quibs
Insert: Arthur, Mdu & Oskido The public transport dependants claim that local taxi drivers, particularly Kombi (Minibus) drivers, are famous for being rude, unclean and illiterate. These constant negative opinions about taxi drivers have aggrieved some South African musicians.
Surely, taxi drivers are not perfect employees in other areas pointed out by the public. But according to musicians - these workers deserve respect and credential in the music industry.
It’s quite surprising that, artists, who hardly use public transport, are outraged by matters unrelated to them.
Come to think of it, there’s a musical bond between South African taxi operators and local musicians which started decades ago: The black commuters’ popular public transport, known as Kombis in South Africa, was legalized in the late Eighties.
A Couple of years later, the Kwaito genre was unveiled to the citizens of South Africa; subsequently, the taxi drivers and artists’ relationship became increasingly inseparable.
Kwaito stars eagerly relied on taxi drivers, who suddenly secured a senior promoter’s status in local music industry, while radio stations couldn’t escape without playing the innovative sound in town, Kwaito.
“…hand over your music… and it will be scheduled for the daily playlist, immediately!”
Everything around music and the taxi industry promptly changed. For the first time, taxi drivers had to operate like radio/club DJs during working hours with daily trips to fulfil passengers’ requirements, which included playing local music.
Also, the musical pressure escalated from taxi business owners, who had to run taxi business like a disco club, to feed travellers’ addiction of a musical journey.
This was just the beginning. When other genres unearthed from Afro-pop to House… taxi drivers continued to entertain commuters with all that South African maestros had produced.
Over the past years, the commitment from local radio stations, TV music programs and other sources that promote Mzansi’s musical brand have been questioned for having less interest in locally produced music. It’s now twice as hard for artists that follow the basic procedure required to enter radio stations’ playlist, to do so. A Good connection with radio bosses/DJs will take you up the top.
That said, most local popular songs that pass taxi drivers stage eventually receive a national anthem’s nod in clubs, radio and television.
Whenever Kwaito music history is revisited, in South Africa, where the whirlwind music entertainment started, Kwaito icons such as Oskido, Arthur Mafokate and the Godfather of Kwaito M’du Masilela, always praise taxi drivers for their exceptional promotional skills; that eventually raised Kwaito’s fresh artists to stardom.
The accessibility of taxi drivers is the easiest in the country as compared to other sources: Just go to any taxi rank and hand over your music in the form of CD or mp3 and your music will be scheduled for the daily playlist, immediately! Of course this is only In South Africa.
The new technology is becoming a new trend for music promotion but unfortunately, the music won’t reach out to all consumers in rural areas where local music is more supported.
Wouldn’t it be refreshing if taxi drivers receive a special honour for being a ‘trusted source’ in promoting South African music?
Arthur Mafokate, kwaito, kwaito music, mdu, mdu masilela, mduduzi masilela, Oskido, south african kombi, south african taxi driver, south african taxis
January 7th, 2011 in Articles by quibs
kwaito dance In South Africa, Kwaito musicians frequently battle it out with artists of various genres for the top spot on the local radio charts – but Traditional bands and Gospel Choirs hardly seem to threaten this top slot.
When Kwaito was still a young baby the situation got worse for Traditional bands and Gospel Choirs; not many people cared about other genres, as Kwaito music instantly became the CEO on the dance floor. There was none more lovable than baby Kwaito.
The predicted success of Kwaito started to spread around the Townships’ streets, taxi ranks, and shebeens. It was claimed that Kwaito would eventually flourish to a global success and equal what American Hip Hop, the genre that had originated early in the seventies, has achieved in a universal market.
The pro-claimed soul of South African music, Kwaito, was heavily promoted through radio, television, magazines and newspapers headlines dominated by Kwaito stars.
Despite the endless public support, two-decades later, Kwaito Kings and Queens have disappeared and some of them are no longer traceable! It looks like Kwaito hit makers failed to reward its massive supporters with international medals. The question that’s worth asking is that: Does Kwaito dream to command the world still reachable? Because as it stands - Kwaito artists are rarely booked internationally - promoters currently prefers House music DJs.
“When it comes to vocal talent, Africa, and more particularly South Africa, has spawned the most evocative sounds on earth…”
Although Traditional bands and Gospel choirs would never be expected to hold pole position in South Africa’s radio charts, however both are established as real winners abroad. Grammy Award winners, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Soweto Gospel Choir have earned a worldwide success status. Wherever both groups performed - be it in Europe, Singapore, Australia, UK and US, their energetic display performances always get standing ovations.
The Soweto Gospel choir, formed in 2002 by the late David Mulovhedzi and Beverley Bryer, is currently in celebration of yet another Grammy nomination. The choir’s fifth album ‘Grace’ has been nominated in The Best Traditional World Music Album category.
The group has already scooped numerous awards abroad since it was formed. Back in 2003, they won a Helpmann Award, Australia’s prestigious Performing Arts Award for “Best Contemporary Music Concert”. Other awards added in their trophies cabinet includes: an American Gospel Music Award for “Best Choir” and Gospel Music Award for “Best International Choir.”
South Africa is not known to produce world-class singers – but according to The New York Times reviews, there’s something special and assuring about Soweto Gospel Choir: “When it comes to vocal talent, Africa, and more particularly South Africa, has spawned the most evocative sounds on earth and still produces the very best that the world has to offer in this art form. Soweto Gospel Choir is that very best.”
Their multiple worldwide performances includes: The Nelson Mandela Foundation 46664 Concerts - Oprah Winfrey and 200 of her V.I.P. guests – and for former American President, Bill Clinton, at a corporate function in his hometown of Little Rock, Arkansas. Moreover - the South African choir also received a special honour to appear as guests on Americas NBC’s “Today Show” as well as “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.”
The legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the only South African group to ever win three Grammy Awards out of the fifteen nominations, is currently celebrating its 50-years journey of cultural ambassadorship.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo appearances in the late king of Pop, Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker video and Spike Lee’s Do It A Cappella and providing soundtrack material for Disney’s The Lion King, Part II are amongst many of their highlighted achievements.
In celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s 50th Anniversary as Monarch, South African boy band band, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, was honored with another invitation to perform in London, where they shared the stage with Paul McCartney, Rod Steward, Eric Cantona, Joe Cocker and Phil Collins.
Added to that - Ladysmith Black Mambazo performed at two Nobel Peace Ceremonies - a concert for Pope John II in Rome - and the 1996 Summer Olympics.
While South Africa is patiently waiting for Kwaito chiefs to submit the international success records – it is unlikely that Kwaito artists can compete with Traditional bands and Gospel choirs such as Ladysblack Mambazo and Soweto Gospel Choir, respectively, judging by their success in a global market.
Simple put; Kwaito failed to compete Abroad.
Best Choir, Beverley Bryer, Comtemporary Music, David Mulovhedzi, Durban, Grammy Award, Helpmann Award, kwaito, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, soweto gospel choir
December 17th, 2010 in Articles by quibs
Louie & Anane South Africa’s house music chiefs and trustees have signed a verbal petition in a bid to win the right for South Africa to be called the ‘World Capital of House Music’. As an enthusiast of “Africa Is the Future” group member – I thought it would be ideal to get the world established House DJ/producers on board to hear if this bid is worth a fight.
As far as world House music is concerned, the Vega family, particularly Louie Vega and his beautiful wife, Anane Vega, should have a say if changes are to be made.
I chatted to the couple while they were in Miami, a week ago. Initially I interviewed Anane before I had a brief chat with Louie Vega about his love for South Africa’s house music scene.
Anane openly talked about her childhood – how her family fled the country of her birth and ended up in America – how she met Louie Vega, who finally became her husband and discussed her musical journey – and, of course, how South African house music caught her attention.
“We’re giving light to this sound that is coming from Africa; I’m really excited to see this sound growing…”
Anane, Cape Verdean by birth, the capital of Santiago, was exposed to a musical environment while she was growing up. Her family members, particularly her aunt and uncle, were both known as the Xalinos, who self-made most of their musical instruments including guitars, violins and the uncommon Cavaqinho (a small four-string guitar).
Singing, dancing and writing songs was pretty normal to young Anane - but her mother didn’t see that as a career. If fact, Anane’s mom reckons her beautiful girl should’ve been a lawyer because “I was good at arguing”, Anane admitted.
Anane, who is now based in New York with Louie, also described the unfortunate scenario that the singer, and her family encountered while staying in Cape Verde, which, at the time, threatened her dreams. In essence, her family was left homeless!
Anane’s father being a Portugese and her mother being a Cape Verdean created numerous problems for the family, including racism. Her family left Cape Verdean in exile because of the revolution that was going on between Portugal and Cape Verde.
Recounting the situation, she said: “We were basically forced to live in a tent, to leave our home because it was vandalized. We just had to pick up what we had or what we could grab and leave!”
Regardless of what Anane and her family had gone through, their move to USA changed their life for better things.
Later, in America, Anane, who is a world established singer, songwriter, producer and DJ, subsequently met her musical icon, DJ/producer Louie Vega. The moment she clearly reminisces about: “Meeting Louie was just really incredible moment for me because I was always a fan of his work and admired what he does and how true he remains to what his passion is, and [what] he believes music is to him”.
Anane later married Louie Vega: “We all dream to one day have somebody that you connect with and grow old with, and so that person being Louie was very special!” Mrs Vega adds:” I fell in love with him because of his humbleness, his kindness and the way he was in person, everything else just an extra treat!”
Anane’s debut album, Ananesworld, from Nervous Records, is available on Traxsouce, Itunes and Vega records.
Speaking of the album, she said: “The album consists of everything of who I am, the essence of me as a woman, a mother, as a wife, sister and daughter and all things that inspires me and all the dreams that I have”.
Getting back to the bid for capital of House Music, Anane is already on board in support of the ‘Africa Is the Future’ campaign; with South African DJ/producers putting their endless effort to promote the bid.
Anane also said when she started her label, Nulu Music Label, with her partner, Antonello Coghe, they both noticed that a lot of music, the demos that were being sent to them, were coming from South Africa, which really caught their attention.
According to Mrs Vega, the future is already looking good: “Now that because of the technology we have, this young generation is able to give us this African sound to put out there.”
“These are the young producers and kids of 17, 18… 21 years old who are producing this sound. We’re giving light to this sound that is coming from Africa; I’m really excited to see this sound growing…there’s so much coming from Africa!”
Meanwhile, Louie Vega, world champion DJ/Producer, is highly impressed with the support that South Africa displayed during his visits to the country. This is the reason that keeps him going back, as he explains: “We’re (The Vega couple) always excited about going to South Africa. It’s really a special place!” Legendary Louie Vega, a Grammy Award winner, calmly continues: “You can’t go higher than the energy you get out there (South Africa) from all the people!”
Louie Vega has signed Black Coffee ft Hugh Masekela “We Are One” song on Vega Records which is going to be out end of January next year.
If someone like Louie Walsh Vega, who is a House music Lord, recommends South Africa, ‘a special place’, to take over this title (the world capital of House music) – who can stop Africa? No one…Africa Is the Future Indeed!
Anane Vega, Antonello Coghe, black coffee, Cape Verde, House Music, Louie Vega, Miami, Nulu Music label, Portugal, Vega Records
October 19th, 2010 in Articles by quibs
Black CoffeeOne measurable factor that made the former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, unpopular during his reign was to declare war against Iraq.
His decision has caused the loss of many British troops, who patriotically joined the army to fight for their country. Furthermore, countless numbers of them returned home disabled as a result. Being a newly disabled casualty is, regrettably, a massive blow! There comes a turning point in one’s life where ambitions, future and dreams are tested - this is the moment!
Although this unfortunate circumstance qualifies the victims to earn government disability benefits, but other disabled individuals are dreamers who courageously opt to pursue their dreams, regardless. The world has evidently registered numerous inspiring disabled-personnel who had, against all odds, chased their dreams successfully.
One of the world icons, who’d proved that being disabled doesn’t eliminate one’s ambition to chase the dream, is the American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer and activist, Stevland Hardaway Morris - professionally known as Steve Wonder.
“Yes, it’s undeniable that Black Coffee’s Djing skill is constantly addictive but they should have, at least, thought about…”
Young Morris became blind shortly after his birth. Most parents would count themselves unlucky to give birth to a disadvantaged child, but when Wonder’s musical talent was discovered, eleven years later, his parents felt rather fortunate and blessed. It was the moment when this blind young lad, Steve Wonder, secured his first recording deal with Motown Records’ Tamla label. Today, the 60 years old, ‘Superstition’ hit-singer, is known for his raw talent! Not the disadvantaged condition…A True Legend!
Wonder is not the only blind man who has contributed to the world of music. In the early eighties, it was the time when South Africans were entertained by the sound of a local blind man, Steve Kekana.
During this period, Kekana - who became blind at the age of five, smoothly warmed up the nation’s heart with his inspiring singing ability. His contribution was fairly awarded - he was named the best vocalist on the old SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) Black Music Award and various local radio stations honoured his amazing vocals.
Born in Limpopo, the 52-years old Kekana’s astonishing career can also be tracked in Europe, where his famous song - Raising My Family - made a huge impact. He is one of few South Africans who have more than twenty albums released within their entire musical career; probably the only South African blind musician.
Apart from being a singer and songwriter, Mr Kekana holds B Juris and LLB degrees.
Few weeks ago, a disabled Durban born CDJ spinner, Black Coffee, real name Nkosinathi Maphumulo, grabbed the global headlines for completing what looked like a mission impossible, in an attempt to break the Guinness World Records. He also wanted to raise awareness about the Black Coffee Foundation. The humble DJ, who lost the use of his left arm in an accident, aged 13, wanted to be the first Dee-Jay in the universe to have played back-to-back sixty-hours set, with just one arm.
You just know that a man is about to take an unthinkable step when he asks his fellow citizens, as well as his international followers, to include him in their prayers. This was the world established DJ Black Coffee’s last appeal to the public before he stepped in his musical entertainment book to begin his assignment.
The World monitored the footage of a South African one-handed-Disc-jock, shaved in classic DMX style and donned in prescription glasses - entertaining the attended crowd unstoppably at Maponya Mall, Johannesburg.
This remarkable experience has also shown some heartless South Africans house music fanatics unreasonable behaviour; people who kept screaming “we want more, we want more…” after Black Coffee finally completed his marathon. Yes, it’s undeniable that Black Coffee’s Djing skill is constantly addictive but they should have, at least, thought about his lack of sleep. This behaviour is called DJ-abuse!
However, the question that is still running through our minds is that: how did he manage to pass this particular task? Whatever it is…Black Coffee did it!
black coffee, black coffee foundation, Nkosinathi Maphumula
October 5th, 2010 in Articles by quibs
Left: Thandiswa, Centre: Camagwini, Right:Lady GagaGone are those days when musical conversation used to be about good music.
The singing stars, if they were to be successful, needed to be sensational in singing– and their performances on stage had to be delivered smoothly with passion. By achieving those goals convincingly, it was enough for artists to sell records.
The atmosphere in the global music industry has changed drastically - and the expectancy from singers by record labels, music consumers, as well as the media is extremely enormous.
Artists who used to rely on the quality of their singing ability are now required to spice-up their image and make certain that they somehow grab magazine and newspaper headlines. This may sound harsh, but it’s imperative!
Female artists, those who have guts, have managed to carry these orders without hesitation. For quite some time, we have witnessed some controversial designer outfits, donned by our admired female singers, which constantly left us nodding in disapproval or rather amazed. Admittedly, it’s quite uncomfortable watching TV with
Grandparents in the present climate.
“It’s all about their skimpy and controversial outfits; pure sexiness, African beauties and their great dance moves!”
A singer, who ceaselessly attracts the world headlines, is Lady Gaga, 24, especially with her outrageous outfits; including her latest meat dress…what an utterly bizarre dress! She’s been recently revealed as, according to social networks, Facebook and Twitter, the most famous human being on earth. You’d probably think the young lady is the best in her profession, singing. Of course not, undoubtedly!
Talking about South Africans female singers, they hardly dress-up outlandishly as Miss Gaga; with that said, a handful of them do get us talking, occasionally, and are worth mentioning.
When local citizens compare Kelly Khumalo and Chomee Madihlaba – the debate doesn’t get to their singing talent. It’s all about their skimpy and controversial outfits; pure sexiness, African beauties and their great dance moves!
Since Kelly burst into the limelight during the Cruz gospel concert in 2003, she continued breaking the rules of her Christianity by wearing revealing clothes. She has even done a Britney Spears, getting court on camera without putting her knickers on. Shooh!
Chomee’s outfits do not surprise many as she started her career as a dancer, aged 9, for Kwaito legend, Arthur Mafokate. To be clothed in a super-sexy and entertainment outfits has always been part of her job. Her dancing qualities matters more to the public - singing is just a cherry on the cake.
Respectively, both the Qinisela and Jiva-Sexy hit-makers, Kelly and Chomee, are debatable the last few South African living-divas left since the loss of the original
divas, Brenda Fassie and Lebo Mathosa. People should be debating about who is nearer to fill up the legacy left by the deceased divas.
They might have shocked us a few times - but nothing is yet to be compared to Thandiswa Mazwai’s ensembles. The former Bongo Maffin lead singer is in a premier league of her own. Her SAMAs’ dress, early this year, shocked us all. Even Camagwini’s dress, which looked like an oven foil paper, couldn’t compete with Thandiswa’s costume. There was no way we were expected to speak about her albums, and her singing talent without mumbling seeing what was in front of us, her ultimate dream-dress.
This proves that musicians’ public appearance seems to be dominating the musical debate! The platform to chat about artists’ singing abilities is not satisfying. No wonder other singers can’t be bothered singing at their gigs, they rely on miming, instead! To hit the high notes smoothly and passionately doesn’t make headlines
anymore. How weird!
Arthur Mafokate, brenda fassie, chomee, jiva sexy, Kelly Khumalo, lady gaga, lebo mathosa, qinisela, thandiswa
September 14th, 2010 in Articles by quibs
Big Nuz Performing at 2010 SAMAsOne of the remarkable changes that democracy brought to South African musical residents was the freedom to sing freely, dance freely and equally reward its musicians publicly.
Since then, South Africa certainly played its part - the phenomenal contribution made by the department of music employees has been recognized and rewarded in
more varied forms, including the SAMAs (South African Music Awards).
The SAMAs, the annual award ceremony for South Africa’s music industry, was inaugurated, in 1995, just over a year after the Republic of South Africa voted Nelson ‘Tata’ Mandela to become the first black president of the nation. In spite of the fact that the event was meant to celebrate and acknowledge our finest musical army - it also unearthed the public music-politics debate and Toyi-Toying (boycotting) over ignored potentials artists; which makes the build up even more dramatic.
“…this song also exposed Madiba’s untold talent, dancing moves! He shamed many African leaders who claim to be too old to dance.”
Admittedly, SAMAs anonymous judges might have got some of their decisions wrong since it was launched; the nominations procedures are regularly questioned when questionable nominees are given the nod. Nonetheless, they’d never ignored the public’s interests. The decision to involve us, the public, in the judging panel was, without a doubt, one of the best commitments they’d ever made. SAMAs approved and authorized the public to take control of ‘Song/Record of the Year’ category in the form of voting for the deserved winner.Unlike the political voting system, with the SAMAs, your vote is not a secret…the South African public fulfilled its part of the contract and happily voted, voted and voted!
The ‘Song/Record of the Year’ is one particular category that gets the citizens’ gossip; the category that has been championed by qualified Kwaito musical graduates. The mistakenly reported died genre, Kwaito, had less competition in the past until recently. As you may recall, in 1998, South Africa voted ‘TKzee and Benni’ Shibobo to be the nation’s song of the year; with Benni scoring with his unqualified vocals. Shibobo instantly became the fastest and biggest selling CD single by a Mzansi recording
artist in history. A year later, 1999, Mzansians agreed that the late Queen of African pop, Brenda Fassie’s Vul’indlela song was a blessing to the African continent. Furthermore,this song also exposed Madiba’s untold talent, dancing moves! He shamed many African leaders who claim to be too old to dance. Consequently,
Vul’indlela was voted to take over the famous crown, Song of the Year award. And just when you thought white South Africans hated Kwaito wholeheartedly for
political reasons, Mandoza, the former Chiskop group member, turned up with the Nkalakatha album.
For two consecutive years, 2000 and 2001, South Africa celebrated the contribution and successful story of Kwaito artist, Mduduzi ‘Mandoza’ Tshabalala. The title
track became a crossover hit and reached the top of the charts on both traditionally black and white radio stations. Eventually, Nkalakatha was the obvious candidate to scooped ‘Song of the Year award’ honour.
In 2002, whilst the public recovered from Mandoza-mania - Mduduzi bounced back and continue to defend his title, Song of the Year champion, successfully.
But this time with Godoba tune. It was save to assume that the former prisoner, Mr Tshabalala, was running this category undefeatedly.
Other successful songs that South African public voted and agreed to honour for the same category, Song/Record of the Year, includes:
Mzekezeke Akekh’ uGogo, Brown Dash Phans’ Komthunz’ Welanga, Ntando Dali Wam, DJ Sbu Remember When It Rained, DJ Sdunkero Maputo Song, Rhythmic
Elements 2 by 2 and Big Nuz featuring Tira Umlilo.
The Kwaito genre might be under scrutiny after the success of House music in the country. However, judging by the public interest and evidence Kwaito is still
going to remain the ANC (African National Congress) of South African music.
2 by 2, DJ Sdunkero, godoba, maputo song, Nkalakatha, Phans' komthuz' Welanga, rhytimic elements, sama song of the year, umlilo
September 2nd, 2010 in Articles by quibs
Mafikizolo The disadvantage of singing as a group is that when one member dies it leaves a void that could, possibly, lead to a discontinuity of the group. Suppose the remaining members of the group decide to continue without the deceased’s vocals, their music would still have to keep the musical industry entertained.
As much as we, the listeners and music buyers, might sympathize with the band for losing one member of the family, it doesn’t guarantee that the public will still go out to buy the band’s music out of sympathy. For the record, it’s not only the music industry that lacks loyalty; music fans can’t be trusted too! If the group can’t keep up and sustain its legacy the public will soon forget about the group and offer their support elsewhere. That’s how harsh and ruthless the public can be sometimes.
It happens everywhere across the globe where music and its makers exist, including South Africa. Thinking of Mzansi (South Africa), only few musical bands managed to sustain their legacy after losing one of their members.
“…and have managed to keep their fans and the industry happy”
Countable numbers of group members have left us over the recent years, including:Lebo Mathosa (Boom Shaka group), Jabulani Ndaba (Malaika), Tebogo Madingoane(Mafikizolo), and recently Jeff Moyo (3Sum).
Although Boom Shaka were not together at the time when Mathosa died, there had been rumours that the group were in talks to make a comeback. Regrettably, her death also ended the anticipated comeback.
In 2004, February, South Africa was shocked to learn about the death of Mafikizolo male singer, Tebogo Madingoane, who was a major part of the group’s success.
Most people were doubtful as to whether the band would still make its huge impact in the music scene without the replacement of Tebza. Theo Kgosinkwe and Nhlanhla Nciza decided not to replace him, and continue where they left off – hoping that the public would still appreciate their music as much as they did during Tebogo’s era.
Despite their solo released albums the group is still as popular as it used to be, Theo and Nhlanhla are still performing together locally and abroad. However, the duo has yet to release an album together but the public is still confident about their talent - it certainly won’t be a disappointment.
When Jabulani Ndaba of Malaika died, in 2009, the remaining members,Tshedi Mholo and Bongani Nchang, also continued to perform together, and released
another album, Mmatswale. Malaika also continued with their success performing locally and overseas, including the USA where they will tour in October, this year.
Ironically, Mafikizolo and Malaika even performed together in the UK.
Not so long ago, the most popular South African gay band, 3Sum, lost its third member, Jeff Moyo, 34. It’s still too soon to tell whether the remaining members, Amstel Makwane and Koyo Bala will continue.
No matter how hard it can be there is always room for continuity and success after losing a member of the group. Mafikizolo and Malaika are amongst the few groups that have proved this and have managed to keep their fans and the industry happy.
3sum, Boom Shaka, Mafikizolo, Malaika
July 3rd, 2010 in Articles by quibs
African Football Legend: Doctor KhumaloFor the past two decades, the image of South African music has changed enormously. It is unimaginable to suggest that some football supporters and musicians are not pleased about the overall success of South African.
This positive reaction came after a local music board revealed the artists names who have contributed most to the local music industry since the Nineties.
Music reviews suggest that some artists have registered themselves as footballers-come-musicians, a category which is not legally authorized.
Part of being a musician involves singing, naturally, same as in football that what comes naturally is to play soccer.
From the soccer fans’ perspective one can easily understand their concern; these loyal fans pay their hard earned money on weekly basis to watch these players displaying skills in what they do naturally, playing diski a.k.a soccer. But for them to be asked to cough up extra cash to watch these soccer players displaying a different act, music, which belongs to artists such as Mdu, Oskido or Robbie Malinga is a total rip off!
“The only positive contribution that had been made by a soccer player to a song was…”
This delusional habit began in the mid-nineties, when former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana player, Doctor 16V Khumalo, collaborated with Bob Mabena, a radio personality. Known as Mtungwa, Khumalo knew that he had thousands of followers (not on Twitter!) and decided to take advantage of that fact. The notion to collaborate with Bob seemed rather innovative and appealing as the duo were the nations darlings in their respective professions.
When comes to soccer, Khumalo was a top producer on the football pitch; he was like Black Coffee on the music field - such a talented-soccer-super-man! But their track Get Funky didn’t live up to the expectations - it failed to get funky on the radio charts!
A few years later, after the country had recovered from the musical bombshell created by a soccer star who tried to score fans through microphone - another familiar name popped up, a former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana player, Steve Chippa Lekoelea, who added his name and registered to the music home office.
Lekoelea was uquivalent to David Beckham in South Africa; if his singing expertise only matched his free kicks! Steve was so convinced that his football skills and popularity would invade the Kwaito music scene and subsequently earn him respect from music society…He teamed up with Mzambia, another young artist who was admired by youth of South Africa, in the Townships. Together, they came up with Jersey No 10 song. Music critics concluded that it was not worth considering for the SAMA Awards. That’s as far as it went.
By this stage you’d think other players might have learned the lesson, but the next thing you hear is that Jabu ‘Shuffle’ Mahlangu, another Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, aimed to follow Chippa (Steve Lekoelea) and Mtungwa’s (Doctor Khumalo’s) footsteps.
The last time we heard about his debut album, The Shuffle, it was at the final stages prior to being released. Of course it would have been released eventually – has anyone heard his songs on the radio, or seen his CD at any local music shops and flea markets? Just asking…
I don’t know what it is with our top soccer teams’ clubs; perhaps they offer career guidance to help their stars to achieve more when their football career ends. Nevertheless, if they do so, whoever advised soccer players to consider SINGING is clearly not to be recommended as an advisor. Lets hope It’s not Kaizer Motaung or Dr Irvin Khoza….Usually, the next destiny for ex-South African soccer players has always been a Correctional Services department not the music industry.
In 2008, when the news reached music comrades that Thabang ‘Chillies’ Lebese was about to drop his chillies taste and dribble through into the music industry - people suggested that he should be stopped! Imagine when Mdu and Arthur learned that they were about to lose their music titles, Godfather and King of Kwaito, respectively, over a former football player. Believe me, it must hurt! Lebese said he dedicated his first single, Ama Parasites, to his lifestyle as a soccer star, with fake friends.
There was speculation that his manager, Venolia ‘V Mash’ Mashego, had tried to get him to sing in a World Cup line-up. Talking about being trapped by his football nature, isn’t he supposed to be there as a soccer legend?
Other players who have tried their luck in the music industry are: Daniel Mambush Mudau, Edward Magents Motale, Sipho Nunens and Fortune Koloba. Unfortunately, their music profiles didn’t make it to Google and they are therefore, still untraceable. If there is any DJ who has played one of their songs on his/her set - feedback would be appreciated.
The only positive contribution that had been made by a soccer player to a song was Shibobo by TKzee featuring Benni (McCarthy) - not that he made a massive difference to the song, it was still going to be huge with or without him.
The question has been asked by South African soccer fans, who are also music fanatics: When are these footballers going to realized that singing is for singers, not footballers?
Of course this may sound unfair to other soccer players who would love to sing for charity – but everyone is entitled to do that…regardless of profession.
benni mccarthy, doctor khumalo, jabu, mahlangu, mzambiya, Shibobo, Shuffle, Thabang Chillies Lebese, Tkzee
Big Loving : Low Deep TFinally, Afro house music has unearthed a soloist with a big heart, big soulful vocals and, more significantly, a ‘Big Love’ debut album out to prove it.
