On the Couch with MEX

Welcome to part two of my engaging interview with one of Roc Nation's many visionaries.

Mahlatse is the Managing Director of Roc Nation Sports International in Africa. Previously, he served as the CEO of the Kolisi Foundation.

His academic journey includes studying Biochemistry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and recently completing a Masters in International Affairs, with a focus on Cybermediation, at King's College London.

At heart a peacemaker, Mahlatse has provided consultancy services to various organizations in the realms of sports, education, and corporate sectors, specializing in mediation, dispute resolution, inclusive leadership, and organizational culture, among other areas.

A dedicated family man, Mahlatse is happily married to his wife, Lusanda, and together they have three daughters. They reside in Cape Town. He is deeply committed to promoting values of collaboration, integrity, and continuous learning across various sectors, including business and NGOs.

Whether it's through his public speaking engagements, facilitating dialogues, or spending time with his family, Mahlatse is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Mahlatse Mashua who is the Managing Director of Roc Nation Sports International in Africa joined me in studio on (Thursday 31st October) on CapeTalk just after 9pm on the show called “The business of Entertainment”.

And we have a rebroadcast on a Sunday night at 9pm on CapeTalk.

Previously, Mahlatse served as the CEO of the Kolisi Foundation.

His academic journey includes studying Biochemistry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and recently completing a Masters in International Affairs, with a focus on Cybermediation, at King’s College London.

At heart a peacemaker, Mahlatse has provided consultancy services to various organizations in the realms of sports, education, and corporate sectors, specializing in mediation, dispute resolution, inclusive leadership, and organizational culture, among other areas.

A dedicated family man, Mahlatse is happily married to his wife, Lusanda, and together they have three daughters.

He is deeply committed to promoting values of collaboration, integrity, and continuous learning across various sectors, including business and NGOs.

Whether it’s through his public speaking engagements, facilitating dialogues, or spending time with his family, Mahlatse is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Since Real Concerts’ inception in 1994, Roddy Quin has gained a reputation as one of South Africa’s most adventurous promoters and has successfully brought to the country many heavyweight music acts, among them:

Massive Attack, Garbage, Placebo, Skunk Anansie, Spin Doctors, Hootie & the Blowfish, Tevin Campbell, Youssou N ‘Dour, Tracy Chapman, Simple Minds in amongst others.

Lots to digest including Big Concerts , Johnny Clegg and much more.

On Thurs 17th Oct on CapeTalk on the show the business of entertainment just past 9pm (21H00) we had in studio the founder of Real Concerts & RAM – Real Artist Management, Roddy Quin.

Roddy has been involved in concert promotion and artist management for the past 36 years, working with both international and South African events and artists.

In the culturally isolated 1980s, Roddy was intimately involved in the careers of (amongst others) two of South Africa’s hottest acts – Johnny Clegg and Mango Groove, whom he toured with both at home and abroad.

Ivor Haarburger occupied various roles at Gallo in his 40 years, from Marketing and Sales, to A&R and eventually as CEO.

In his time at Gallo he also signed some of the South Africa's greatest artists.

These include:

Ladysmith Black Mambazo,

The Mahotella Queens,

Stimela,

Ray Phiri,

Don Laka,

Harari,

Lucky Dube,

Gito Baloi,

Miriam Makeba and,

Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse.

Ivor Haarburger a giant in 🇿🇦 music industry occupied various roles at Gallo in his 40 years from Marketing and Sales to A&R and eventually CEO.

In his time not only did he break iconic international acts in the country, like Boney M, Donna Summer, Richard Clayderman and Barry White, he also signed some of the country’s greatest artists

Some of these include:

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

The Mahotella Queens

Stimela

Ray Phiri

Don Laka

Harari

Lucky Dube

Gito Baloi

Miriam Makeba

Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse.

Jon Savage has a mind filled with brilliant information and he my guest was on the Business of Entertainment, last night on Cape Talk, talking podcasting and more.

Jon's impressive resume includes:

•⁠ ⁠DIRECTOR of INBROADCASTING

•⁠ ⁠FOUNDER of the AFRICAN PODCAST NETWORK and AMPD STUDIOS

•⁠ ⁠CONTENT STRATEGIST for HAVE YOU HEARD (www.haveyouheard.co.za)

•⁠ ⁠Host of What's Your Poison and the Digital Savage podcasts

•⁠ ⁠www.jonsavage.com

This past Thursday at 9pm ( 19th Sept ) on CapeTalk #businessofentertainment we had in studio, Ricardo Mackenzie, the Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport in the Western Cape Government in the 7th Administration.

We will hear about the plans the Minister has for the next couple of years and more.

Show producer - Barry Maré.

Thursday 9pm ( 12 September 2924 ) on CapeTalk #businessofentertainment we had Ricardo Mackenzie in studio, the Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport in the Western Cape Government in the 7th administration.

We discussed plans the Minister has for the next couple of years and more.

Mackenzie's professional background spans many years, roles at institutions such as the national Ministry of Sport and Recreation, Old Mutual, JPMorgan Chase, The Presidency of Thabo Mbeki , Eurocape International, and Dial-A-Bed.

Show producer: Barry Maré

We like to keep our content evergreen, but with what's about to transpire come Saturday, I thought to post this, hot off the press.

Please welcome, Jamie Wall.

Jamie Wall grew up in Wellington, New Zealand and now is  based in Auckland as a rugby writer. Was in SA to cover the two All Black test matches and works for RNZ now . We talked All Blacks as a brand and what touring means as a journalist Some of his  career highlights:
• Covering the All Blacks as a touring journalist since 2017
• Publishing four books, including the best selling Brothers In Black
• Attending the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and covering the All Blacks’ campaign
I've been covering rugby and league for the last six seasons for a few websites, plus I've been an active player of both for the last 30. He  know what it's like to be at the bottom of a ruck, have to throw into a line-out five metres off your own goal line and get worked over by a guy twice my size after an ill-advised dart from dummy half.

Superb conversation with Karabo Senna from SAMRO on CapeTalk #BusinessOfEntertainment which airs every Thursday at 9pm.

Great discussion for all artists on the importance Of artists rights and what SAMRO does in this regard.

Show producer: Barry Maré

Artwork: Casey Barclay

On Thursday, just after 9 pm, I welcomed back my guest Ian Fraser (Ian F) - to CapeTalk's #BusinessOfEntertainment

We talked radio, Alex Jay, Wilson B Nkosi, and good content. Ian F won a SAMA (He won a South African Music Award in 2008 with 5FM for Best Dance Album). Analytics and metrics, finding content and much, much more.

Ian Fraser, better known as Ian F, became a household name as he spent 15 years at the national broadcaster, 5fm.

Ian was also at KFM in Cape Town and then Highveld in Johannesburg.

For the last eight years, Ian F has been the voice-over artist for SuperSport while running his own successful independent studio in Johannesburg.

Show producer - Barry Maré.

My Guest on Cape Talk the Business of Entertainment on Thurs 15th Aug (tonight ) at 9pm is Ian F.

Ian Fraser, better known as Ian F, became a household name as he spent 15 years at the national broadcaster, 5FM.

He then went traveling and landed in Europe, where he discovered that it was old, cold and that beer was too expensive.

He then came back home and worked briefly at KFM in Cape Town and the then Highveld in Johannesburg.

For the last eight years, Ian F has been the voice-over artist for SuperSport.

He won a South African Music Award in 2008 with 5FM for Best Dance Album.

Show producer Barry Maré.

Part 2 of my chat with Patric van Blerk from the business of entertainment , that airs every Thursday night at 9pm

Patric has extensive experience in the music industry and has won several industry awards, along with countless gold and platinum discs for hit records.

After starting with Gallo in 1968, Patric went independent in the early seventies – working with or initiating the careers of many SA artists.

He assisted in guiding the early creative fortunes of Virgin Records in South Africa, while also introducing SA to the Gipsy Kings.

Patric’s experience with studios began as co-owner of Auvico in Johannesburg, the first 16-track recording studio in SA.

He later bought the equally famed Sonovision, responsible not only for the legendary Springbok radio shows but also thousands of radio jingles.

Local acts he has worked with include Ipi Tombi, Margaret Singana, Rabbitt, Joy, Julian Laxton, Sweatband featuring Wendy Oldfield, Spirits Rejoice featuring Sipho Gumede, Mimi Coertse, and many others.

As a songwriter, Patric has enjoyed success with songs such as Paradise Road, Charlie, and Blue Water. He co-wrote and co-produced the title theme from the TV series Shaka Zulu, We Are Growing, which enjoyed international success.

Patric has worked on international films such as Hold My Hand I’m Dying and Death of a Snowman and retains film connections abroad and locally.

He lives, and works in Cape Town.

Patric Van Blerk on #BusinessOfEntertainment on Cape Talk.

Patric has extensive experience in the music industry. He has won several industry awards, along with countless gold and platinum discs for hit records.

Local acts he has worked with include Ipi Tombi, Margaret Singana, Rabbitt, Joy, Julian Laxton, Sweatband featuring Wendy Oldfield, Spirits Rejoice featuring Sipho Gumede, Mimi Coertse, and many others.

As a songwriter, Patric has enjoyed success with songs such as Paradise Road, Charlie, and Blue Water.

He co-wrote and co-produced the title theme from the TV series Shaka Zulu, We Are Growing, which enjoyed international success.

Please enjoy!

Part two of my interview with Mike van Graan broadcast on Cape Talk's The Business of Entertainment on Thursday 25 July at 9:30pm. Please enjoy.

Mike van Graan is an award-winning playwright with 37 plays under his belt. He joined me in  Studio on Thursday 11th July at 9pm on CapeTalk for the #businessofentertainment 

Mike van Graan  award-winning playwright & Cultural Activist.Mike is one of the best in the business with stunning points to offer to any discussion ,and yes we will discuss the current status quo ,with the new GNU in power in SA. 

 His most recent work – MY FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS – won the performer, Kim Blanche Adonis, the Toyota US Woordfees Best Solo Award (October 2023) and the Best Solo Performance award at the inaugural Independent Theatre Awards (February 2024) where it also won the Best New Script award.

MY FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS also won a Standard Bank Bronze Ovation Award at the 2024 National Arts Festival.

 In addition to writing plays, Mike has extensive experience in cultural policy, building artists’ networks both locally and across the African continent, and in advocacy.

 He has served as the Secretary General of Arterial Network, as the Director of the African Arts Institute and the Coordinator of the Sustaining Theatre and Dance (STAND) Foundation.

In May 2024, he completed a 3-month writer’s residency at the University of the Free State where he wrote a play, THE GOOD WHITE, set against the backdrop of the Rhodes/Fees Must Fall campaigns.

He currently spends his time trying to build a sustainable theatre practices as a writer/producer.

Mike van Graan is an award-winning playwright with 37 plays under his belt. He joined me in  Studio on Thursday 11th July at 9pm on CapeTalk for the #businessofentertainment 

Mike van Graan  award-winning playwright & Cultural Activist.
Mike is one of the best in the business with stunning points to offer to any discussion ,and yes we will discuss the current status quo ,with the new GNU in power in SA. 

 His most recent work – MY FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS – won the performer, Kim Blanche Adonis, the Toyota US Woordfees Best Solo Award (October 2023) and the Best Solo Performance award at the inaugural Independent Theatre Awards (February 2024) where it also won the Best New Script award.

MY FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS also won a Standard Bank Bronze Ovation Award at the 2024 National Arts Festival.

 In addition to writing plays, Mike has extensive experience in cultural policy, building artists’ networks both locally and across the African continent, and in advocacy.

 He has served as the Secretary General of Arterial Network, as the Director of the African Arts Institute and the Coordinator of the Sustaining Theatre and Dance (STAND) Foundation.

In May 2024, he completed a 3-month writer’s residency at the University of the Free State where he wrote a play, THE GOOD WHITE, set against the backdrop of the Rhodes/Fees Must Fall campaigns.

He currently spends his time trying to build a sustainable theatre practices as a writer/producer.

Thrilled to welcome back Greer Leo-Smith last night on CapeTalk for the business of entertainment - talking Wimbledon , injuries , fortitude, climbing up the tennis rankings, winning, becoming a pilot, a Springbok Fly Fisher - be prepared to be inspired.

#BusinessOfEntertainment

Show producer: Barry Maré

I was thrilled to welcome Greer Leo-Smith to the studio at CapeTalk on Thursday, 27 June 2024, for the #BusinessOfEntertainment to talk about winning and discussing Wimbledon which starts on Monday.

Greer is one of South Africa’s most successful tennis players (Wimbledon and US Open mixed doubles champion and a career-high singles ranked 7th in the world).

These days you’re likely to find Greer Leo-Smith ( neé Stevens) living in Hoedspruit, supporting and driving sustainability.

Enjoy the listen to be inspired.

Show producer: Barry Maré

My guest on Thurs 20th June at 9pm on Cape Talk was Patrick Alexander Dudgeon over 20 years in events industry.

Pat came back this week to talk what is a corporate event all about , the Does and Don't.

Patrick Dudgeon has worked for nigh on 20 years in the events industry, and quite unusually, for one company.

Patrick's growth with Ultra events has seen him move from setting up sound for nightclubs in Green Point, to traveling around the country with roadshows and fan parks, to settling into large-scale corporate events and concerts with international performers.

Patrick focusses on all things audio, but is well versed in lighting, video, staging and general event production.

A specialist in sound system design too is Pat.

#BusinessOfEntertainment #capetalkradiostation

Patrick Dudgeon has worked for nigh on 20 years in the events industry, and quite unusually, for one company.

Patrick's growth with Ultra events has seen him move from setting up sound for nightclubs in Green Point, to traveling around the country with roadshows and fan parks, to settling into large-scale corporate events and concerts with international performers.

Patrick focuses on all things audio, but is well versed in lighting, video, staging and general event production.

A specialist in sound system design to not annoy the residents, Patrick has a passion for educating and informing the public on the hidden side of events. 

On the Cape Talk show the Business of Entertainment I had as my special guest Kwame Kwaten Vice-Chair of the UK’s Music Managers Forum.

Kwame has in his 30+ year career in the music industry, been a musician, manager, producer, consultant and A&R.

And now has founded artist service company Ferocious Talent where he runs everything from top to bottom, his A&R skills are unparalleled.

His own writing and production credits include work for Jay Z, Shola Ama, Mick Jagger, Tom Jones and Seal to name a few.

The band, D-Influence (which Kwame was a member of), signed to Atlantic Records, and accomplished many amazing moments such as supporting Michael Jackson, Prince and James Brown on tour.

His A&R and management work over the years has seen him discover Shola Ama, Laura Mvula and Rumer resulting in millions of records sales and multiple award wins and nominations.

Kwame is also currently a Trustee at The Brits Trust, Vice-Chair of the UK’s Music Managers Forum, Trustee of the MOBO Charity and Co-Chair of the BRITS Diversity Committee.

He is also Co-Director of a social enterprise company, Cre8ing Vision, with Andrea Euell and Nicola Charles.This company houses The Ultimate Seminar, Ultimate Live, The Ultimate Circle, The A&R Initiative Focus Groups and The MBOL Show.

Enjoy this exclusive interview on Cape Talk, from Thursday 30 May at 9pm with Grammy-winning duo, Blue Lab Beats.

Context:

"Few acts encapsulate the breadth of what’s been happening in London’s jazz and neo-soul worlds as well as Blue Lab Beats” - Loud & Quiet

“Fresh innovation...the duo’s broadest statement yet” - CLASH

“Their sound is a shining example of the youth-driven, boundary-breaking creativity that characterises the blossoming scene which is dominating the capital” - DUMMY

Grammy winning duo Blue Lab Beats one of the fastest-rising production duos in the world right now have just released there fourth studio album, Blue Eclipse.

The prodigiously talented duo who ended 2023 by selling out KOKO and picking up their second MOBO Nomination, got 2024 off to a stunning start with the sumptuous soul groove of their new single “Wait A While”, featuring Grammy-nominated Amber Navran, LA-based singer/producer, and founding member of Neo-Soul trio Moonchild, and rising UK Neo-soul artist Farah Audhal.

Blue Eclipse heralds an exciting new era for Blue Lab Beats and the 12 songs reveal the depth and breadth of producer NK-OK, and multi-instrumentalist Mr DM’s musical ambition.

Featured guests include Mercury Prize nominated Kojey Radical alongside Daley, on “Take Time”, IDK & Jay Prince on “Say Wow”, Amber & Farah on “Wait A While”, and Poppy Daniels on the title track.

“We called this album Blue Eclipse as a nod to Blue Skies, our first EP.

We wanted to embrace some themes and sounds that we’ve used throughout our career and make an album that truly represents us.

Using sky titles acts as a reminder of people in our lives who inspired us and left a very important mark on us.

We wanted to welcome old friends as well new ones onto this project and we are so happy with everyone’s amazing contributions.” Blue Lab Beats.

Listen below

Blue Eclipseopen.spotify.com

Track-listing:

1.Never Doubt

2.Say Wow (feat. IDK, Jay Prince)

3.Rice & Peas (feat. Kyra, Bnny Hunna, Aidan)

4.Cherry Blossom (feat. Ben Jones & Parthenope)

5.Sky Paradise (interlude)

6.Wait A While (feat. Amber Navran, Farah Audhali)

7.Sunset In LA

8.Nights In Tokyo (feat. Kaidi)

9.Take Time (feat. Kojey Radical & Daley)

10.Guava (feat. Poppy Daniels, Richie Seivwright, Camilla George, Kaidi)

11.Blue Eclipse (feat. Poppy Daniels)

12.Brother (feat. Natalie Lindi)

Starting out as bedroom producers, remixing tracks for A-listers such as Dua Lipa and Rag’N’Bone Man, on to supporting the likes of Roy Ayers and Thundercat, and producing on Kojey Radical’s ‘Reason To Smile’, Blue Lab Beats have been dreaming big from the beginning.

Their 2018 debut album XOver, a brilliant blend of analog and electronic sounds, included the track ‘Pineapple’, which amassed over 10 million streams alone, while 2022’s ‘Motherland Journey’ proved a work of great musical ambition and imagination featuring vocals from the late great Fela Kuti, as well as one of a kind artists Tiana Major9, Ghetto Boy, Ego Ella May, Kofi Stone, and Pip Millet.

The last two years have seen Blue Lab Beats emerge from the bedroom, and into the ears, minds and hearts of millions of music lovers with over 50 million streams, a GRAMMY for their production on Angelique Kidjo's 'Fired Up' track from her ‘Mother Nature’ LP, a Jazz FM Innovation Award and now two MOBO nominations.

The pair also contributed the key track "Blow You Away" (Delilah) featuring Afrobeats artist Ghetto Boy, for the hugely acclaimed British film Rye Lane and also made their silver screen debut when they performed in the movie.

Playing two electrifying sets at Glastonbury Festival in 2023, the Blue Note in Tokyo, Love Supreme in Japan , three shows at Jazzaladia Festival in Spain, a sold out show at the Royal Albert Hall’s Elgar Room, a support with Robert Glasper at Jazz A Vienne and straight on to both Montreux Jazz Festival and Montreal Jazz Festival before ending the year at the legendary KOKO for Global Soul Radio in December, Blue Lab Beats are showing no signs of slowing down.

Guy was back on Thurs at 9pm on CapeTalk

Talking about:

Shortage of training for filmmakers in the business aspects of film.

How are they financed? How do you justify the cost and what is the plan to repay the money.

Lack of institutional financing and the negative thinking around film and television projects

The importance of having the legal issues pertaining to a project resolved from the outset – this extends to chain of title, production and distribution agreements.

#businessofentertainment

With a background in corporate law at one of South Africa’s big five law firms, Guy joined the firm in 2002 and seeing an opportunity of an under serviced sector began practicing in the broader field of media and entertainment.

The firm has since grown into a formidable boutique entertainment firm that is often described as “punching above its weight” given its client base in the film and television sector both locally and internationally.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the legal and business end of the entertainment industry and his involvement in the production and/or financing of more than 200 projects, Guy is in a unique position to offer quick and comprehensive advice on all aspects of film, television, development, production, financing and distribution.

Guy’s clients include global financing institutions active in film and television financing, studios, streamers and production companies as well as some well-known individual creatives.

Guy has numerous film and television credits to his name including the Oscar nominated film “Invictus”.

He is highly regarded both locally and internationally as South Africa's leading entertainment lawyer and has been instrumental in securing production work for his clients in excess of three billion rand.

Guy is also a regular speaker at industry events.

Peter Lacey is a successful entrepreneur who comes from a background in the entertainment software industry, having successfully built S.A's largest independent entertainment software company, Vision Software, before selling it to Electronic Arts (EA) and running the African division for four years.

Peter has always taken pride in the fact that South Africa has tremendous talent, both in software development and musical ability, and that all we ever needed was a channel to the international market to develop that intellectual property offering.

Peter is a huge music fan, having been a DJ at college and he has known Brian O'Shea for 20 years. When he decided to leave EA in 2000 there was only one thing he wanted to do: create a music company with a global reputation for great music.

Peter is a natural risk taker who has brought all artists onto the label under his motto "Pride, Passion, Patience and Persistence". Peter handles all exploitation and other business activities. These include publishing, personal and business management arms to young artists striving to break out of the traditional low income base artists presently have in this country.

Peter Lacey is a successful entrepreneur who comes from a background in the entertainment software industry, having successfully built S.A's largest independent entertainment software company, Vision Software, before selling it to Electronic Arts (EA) and running the African division for four years.

Peter has always taken pride in the fact that South Africa has tremendous talent, both in software development and musical ability, and that all we ever needed was a channel to the international market to develop that intellectual property offering.

Peter is a huge music fan, having been a DJ at college and he has known Brian O'Shea for 20 years. When he decided to leave EA in 2000 there was only one thing he wanted to do: create a music company with a global reputation for great music. Peter is a natural risk taker who has brought all artists onto the label under his motto "Pride, Passion, Patience and Persistence". Peter handles all exploitation and other business activities. These include publishing, personal and business management arms to young artists striving to break out of the traditional low income base artists presently have in this country.

Greg has kindly given me this, in the room, story of that famous recording - Yes, Greg did ALL the work ;-) 

The story begins sometime in late 1978 early 1979. 

Patric Van Blerk, who was on a sabbatical from the music industry at the time, had shown a great interest in the newly formed trio of Joy. He was at the time planning his re-entry into the music business after the demise of the Satbel record company and troubles at the newly formed Jo’burg records. 

He had re-established his connection with his old song writing partner Fransua Roos after years of being estranged from him and had written a new batch of songs.

He was looking for a new breed of artists to form the core of his then emerging label Café Society, named after the very successful café Casablanca on Rocky Street. 

Two of the new batch of songs were “Paradise Road” and “Ain’t Gonna Stop ‘Til I Get to the Top”. 

Linda Bernhardt and myself were invited to Patric’s house in Orange Grove on several occasions to discuss the potential of his involvement with Joy and Spirits Rejoice. Fransua Roos was present at one of these meetings and played for us, on the piano, an unfinished version of Paradise Road and Ain’t Gonna Stop.

We were both blown away by the songs and from there on forward we knew they were going to be very powerful and perfect for Joy. 

It was decided that the recordings would be done as a collaboration with Fransua Roos arranging the tracks in conjunction with Spirits Rejoice. Spirits Rejoice were using a spare room at Satbel Studios for their band rehearsals. 

We arranged for Fransua to join them along with Joy in the rehearsal room to start the rehearsals in preparation for the recordings. This was a magic rehearsal session.

Fransua played the songs a couple of times to introduce the band and the girls to the song, Patric had more or less completed the lyrics and after about a couple of hours the arrangements had come together, the girls had worked out their parts and it was sounding amazing. 

Felicia had mastered the tone and delivery that Fransua wanted for the verses, Anneline had delivered the power going into the choruses and Thoko had the warm low harmonies that were so much the sound of Joy. 

The phenomenal bass line was a natural for Sipho Gumede and the subtlety of the drums/percussion was a result of the amazing techniques of Gilbert Mathews on the drums. 

Everyone was so high after these rehearsals, we knew this was going to be a big hit and couldn’t wait to get into studio to record. Unfortunately there were some complications that would hold up the recording.

Patric was still in the process of concluding his label deal with Matt Mann of RPM records and there were questions about where we would be able to record our tracks. We were holding out for the recording to be done at Satbel Studios as they had the most advanced 24 track recording studio in South Africa at the time. The issues were resolved in the fullness of time and we started to record at Satbel studios. 

The rhythm section we used for the backing tracks with consisted of Gilbert Mathews on drums, Sipho Gumede on bass, Paul Peterson on guitar, Fransua Roos on grand piano and Mervyn Africa on Fender Rhodes. 

The backing track was laid within one or two takes along with two or three other backing tracks. We then proceeded to add the vocals. We were very fussy with the vocals and probably spent more than a day doing this, in fact I think we came back to some parts two or three times as the orchestration developed. 

Fransua then went away to write the parts for the string section. The string section took a long time to record as Fransua had not held back on the complexity of the arrangement and the string players found some of the parts tricky to deliver, especially the cello parts on the intro’s and turnarounds. 

Once we had completed the string section overdubs we all started to have visions of this being the perfect kitchen sink production. Fransua then went away again and scored parts for French Horns and Harp, he had also had some thoughts about the choir arrangements that were delivered by Joy themselves. 

All in all it was sounding big, the voices and orchestration were perfect. The feel of the song was inspiring and the last piece of the puzzle was the solo. With such a huge arrangement it was going to need something very special. 

We tried lots of different solos – a burning alto sax, wall of sound guitar and several tenor sax solos – none of them worked for us. We almost settled for a solo than none of us were convinced was the best we could get. I then had an idea, I spoke with Duke Makasi – who had already had one attempt at the solo that didn’t quite work. I asked if he could deliver a solo without being given any ideas of where to take it, just play it and be himself. He said he would but he would like just me and him alone in the studio. We did it one lunchtime during a break I was having recording Harari. 

I put the track on, Duke played it once – job done. After all the agonising Duke had delivered exactly what the track needed. I hadn’t told Patric or Fransua what I was doing. The next time we came into the studio to work on the track I played it with the new solo, I wish I had a camera to record the smiles on their faces when they heard it, the final piece of the jigsaw had fallen into place. 

The remix went so well, the track almost mixed itself. It was simply a case of letting the dynamics take control. Fransua’s arrangements had been well thought out which made the remix a lot easier. 

You can hear the subtlety of the backing track, you can feel the growl of the cello’s and the soaring violin arrangements that interlink the verses. The French Horns that interplay with the power of Anneline’s vocal on the choruses when she sings “the sky is blazing” and the harp that leads out of the solo into the key change.

The way that Felicia’s delicate voice makes Anneline sound twice as powerful on the choruses. After living with this recording for over 40 years now, I don’t think there is anything I would change. It really was a statement of its time and I feel proud to have been involved. 

Patric will be the one who can complete the story after the album was finished. 

This is the song - Do listen 

Paradise Road

Part two, where I chatted with multi talented production man and lighting designer, Jp Willson about events, shows and weddings, and much much more on CapeTalk, just past 9pm each Thursday, on the #BusinessOfEntertainment. Please enjoy.

We spoke to multi talented , production man , lighting designer Jp Willson about events , shows and weddings and much much more on CapeTalk just past 9pm on the #BusinessOfEntertainment. Please enjoy.

For over 35 years, Iain Banner has co-founded and directed various successful businesses and charitable ventures throughout the world, across the sports, entertainment, luxury goods and hospitality industries. 

As co-founder and chairman of E-Movement, Iain and his partners successfully staged Formula E Cape Town in February 2023.  Prior to that, they also staged ‘Africa’s Green Economy Summit’, connecting capital with the Green Economy; launched Formula Student Africa and staged the ELECTRIC Festival. GO GREEN AFRICA was launched by Iain at this time too.

Iain’s previous projects include co-founding Sports International, the Gary Player Design Company, and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Iain also co-founded the Laureus World Sport Awards and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which has raised over €250 million supporting some 300 projects annually, using sport as a tool for social change in the lives of children. Independent assessments have shown that some seven million children have been positively impacted by the work of the Sport for Good Foundation since it was founded in 2000. 

Having just released their latest studio album, Bauhaus Staircase, MEX, and by extension, me, Jason Curtis, was gifted a rare opportunity to speak to both Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys of Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD) on the eve of the most extensive world tour in 45 years.

The best part is the synth pioneers will be heading to South Africa in April 2024, the third time we get to welcome them back, eager to hear new music and a wall of evergreen classics, too.

While we wait, give this two-part interview a whirl, dust off those seminal records and prepare to be blown away.

Thursday, 18 April 2024 - Green Point A-Track, Green Point, Cape Town

Saturday, 20 April 2024 – Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia, Johannesburg

For all the details, head to ⁠Breakout Events⁠ for tickets and more information. 

For over 35 years, Iain Banner has co-founded and directed various successful businesses and charitable ventures throughout the world, across the sports, entertainment, luxury goods and hospitality industries.

As co-founder and chairman of E-Movement, Iain and his partners successfully staged Formula E Cape Town in February 2023.  Prior to that, they also staged ‘Africa’s Green Economy Summit’, connecting capital with the Green Economy; launched Formula Student Africa and staged the ELECTRIC Festival. GO GREEN AFRICA was launched by Iain at this time too.

Iain’s previous projects include co-founding Sports International, the Gary Player Design Company, and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Iain also co-founded the Laureus World Sport Awards and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which has raised over €250 million supporting some 300 projects annually, using sport as a tool for social change in the lives of children. Independent assessments have shown that some seven million children have been positively impacted by the work of the Sport for Good Foundation since it was founded in 2000.

Arthur Goldstuck is a popular South African icon as a journalist, media analyst and speaker.

Arthur heads the World Wide Worx research organisation in which he leads ground-breaking market research to how change affects business and society and presents his findings and insights to audiences both locally and internationally.

World Wide Worx is a producer of the most widely accepted statistics for Internet use in South Africa and has piloted research across the African continent since 2001, in which the complexities of operating on the continent is unravelled.

Arthur Goldstuck is a popular South African icon as a journalist, media analyst and speaker.

Arthur heads the World Wide Worx research organisation in which he leads ground-breaking market research to how change affects business and society and presents his findings and insights to audiences both locally and internationally.

World Wide Worx is a producer of the most widely accepted statistics for Internet use in South Africa and has piloted research across the African continent since 2001, in which the complexities of operating on the continent is unravelled.

Having started from rung #1 of the ladder of the entertainment industry, a courier biker for a music company in London, John slowly climbed upwards, from trainee engineer at Air Edel to engineer, then trainee Producer at Air Studios London to Producer. 

Shifting focus out of the studio and into the world of Music Publishing, he began his publishing life at Chrysalis Music, moving to MCA Music, to his own company CFM and then back to the corporate world of PolyGram Music.  Within the PolyGram Group, John transferred to Germany and eventually South Africa, building PolyGram Music from scratch, shifting to Universal Music and taking the company to being #1 Publisher.

John was also the chief negotiator o.b.o. NORM (during his role as Chairman), securing the first Digital Agreement in Africa, paving the way for a precedent to be set for all Digital agreements with DSPs thereafter.  He was also the pioneer and founding driving force behind the first unified mechanical society in South Africa, CAPASSO.

Now joint owner of independent music publishing company, Active Music Publishing, he continues to strive to develop and support composers in this highly competitive area of the industry, adding value in whatever means possible to further their careers.

A Board Member of the Independent Music Publishers Forum (IMPF), a body of over 175 Intl. Independent Publishers, vying to ensure the interests of composers and publishers is heard globally, sitting on various committees, one of which is the current hot topic…, AI.

“Measuring your success in the world of music is not about who you have worked with, it is about who you are working with.  It is not about what you have done, it is about what you are doing”.

We talked Podcasts and more with Brendan “Spike” Ballantine on Thurs 14 March at 9pm on the Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk.

Since 2015, Spike has focused on podcasting; his company, dbo Media, has provided production services to South Africa’s podcasting pioneer CliffCentral, and overseen the creation of podcast series for BMW South Africa, Investec, WITS and DHL Europe, amongst others.

We taked Podcasts and more with Brendan on Thurs 7 March at 9pm on the Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk.

Brendan “Spike” Ballantine is a media industry professional, with over 20 years experience encompassing audio production for both radio and television, as well copywriting and content ideation.

Since 2015, Spike has focussed on podcasting; his company, dbo Media, has provided production services to South Africa’s podcasting pioneer CliffCentral, and overseen the creation of podcast series for BMW South Africa, Investec, WITS and DHL Europe, amongst others.

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9 pm,  landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one.

Kevin Leo-Smith has extensive experience in developing and growing conservation-based tourism projects. He is the co-founder and partner of Safari Investments Advisory and a non-executive director of Immedia, a South African cloud-computing platform
In the late 1980s, he conceived of the idea behind Phinda Game Reserve, achieving the then biggest private conversion of land use from agriculture to conservation in South Africa at that time, and formed its parent company Conservation Corporation Africa with Alan Bernstein and others, where he was responsible for development and operations until 1996.
In 1997, Kevin established Kwando Safaris from scratch with a partner, constructing 5 luxury camps in Botswana’s Okavango region on over 400,000 hectares of private concession.

In 2006, he co-founded SFM Africa (now African Conservation Development Group) with Alan Bernstein, creating and operating projects in Gabon, Guinea and Rwanda. Most of the projects had a safari tourism component as well as forestry and agriculture.

We spoke to Kevin Leo-Smith on Thurs, 22 February 2024 at 9pm on Cape Talk's, The Business of Entertainment.

Now in its 10th month, the Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9 pm, has landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one.

Kevin Leo-Smith has extensive experience in developing and growing conservation-based tourism projects.

He is the co-founder and partner of Safari Investments Advisory and a non-executive director of immedia, a South African cloud-computing platform.

In the late 1980s, he conceived of the idea behind Phinda Game Reserve, achieving the then biggest private conversion of land use from agriculture to conservation in South Africa at that time, and formed its parent company Conservation Corporation Africa with Alan Bernstein and others, where he was responsible for development and operations until 1996.

In 1997, Kevin established Kwando Safaris from scratch with a partner, constructing 5 luxury camps in Botswana’s Okavango region on over 400,000 hectares of private concession.

In 2006, he co-founded SFM Africa (now African Conservation Development Group) with Alan Bernstein, creating and operating projects in Gabon, Guinea and Rwanda. Most of the projects had a safari tourism component as well as forestry and agriculture.

Meet my most recent guest on The Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk, delivered each Thursday at 9pm.

Laura Vincenti is a highly accomplished and dynamic figure in the art world, currently serving as the Director of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, a position she has held since 2017.

With a degree in architecture, she has successfully blended Italian design styles with African materials, showcasing her creativity and a keen eye for detail, meticulous attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and natural aptitude for authority which has assisted in taking her to where she is today.Vincenti's career has been marked by significant achievements and diverse experiences.

She earned her architectural education in both Italy, Turin, and England, Oxford, and has been actively involved in artistic and architectural events since the 1990s.

Notably, she served as the Exhibition Designer for renowned art biennales such as BIG TORINO in 2000 and 2002, as well as the Venice Biennale in 2005 and 2013. Her collaboration with influential artists and curators like Francois Confino, Maurizio Cattelan, Mario Merz, Piero Gilardi, and Michelangelo Pistoletto has further enriched her portfolio.As a Project Manager and site managers' coordinator, Vincenti played a pivotal role in the successful delivery of the three Olympic Villages for the Winter Olympic Games in Turin in 2006, demonstrating her ability to manage large-scale projects efficiently.

She then served as the Principal Architect for ARTISSIMA, an international fair of contemporary art in Torino, from 2007 to 2014.One of Vincenti’s aims is to establish a successful consultancy in South Africa that bridges the cultural influences of her birthplace, Italy, and her newfound love, South Africa.

Her vision includes fostering connections between these two countries and contributing to the cultural dialogue.As the Director of Investec Cape Town Art Fair,  Vincenti is dedicated to positioning Cape Town as a significant international destination for art and culture.

This interview, made up of three parts, was recorded at the home of Sipho Mabuse, back in 2019. Please give it a listen and celebrate this giant of music's contribution to our collective entertainment economy. RIP, Tony.

A love of all things creative and a passion for music and sport and live events.

Over 20 years experience planning and directing activities for large scale projects and campaigns at home in South Africa and cities around the globe.

Events are about bringing people together and creating powerful experiences .

Amazing things happen when people meet; they learn, inspire one another, come up with new ideas and sometimes theyeven change the world.

I feel privileged to work on projects, both home and abroad, visit stunning venues and meet truly inspiring people from across the world.

A love of all things creative and a passion for music
and sport and live events.

Over 20 years experience planning and
directing activities for large scale projects and
campaigns at home in South Africa and cities
around the globe.

Events are about bringing people together and
creating powerful experiences .

Amazing things happen when people meet; they learn, inspire one
another, come up with new ideas and sometimes they
even change the world.

I feel privileged to work on projects, both home and
abroad, visit stunning venues and meet truly
inspiring people from across the world.

Do enjoy episode 2 with  Karen Schofield-Nel, the UCT Choir Conductor and Artistic Director who was on the Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk.  

As Music Director, Artistic Director, Music Lecturer, Choral Clinician, Adjudicator, Scholar, Karen Schofield-Nel’s work spans over a wide variety of ages, abilities, genres.

Karen holds a double Degree in both Music and Education (Thayer Conservatory, AUC - USA), M.Mus in Choral Conducting (Stellenbosch University), which has been transferred into a PhD in Music, which she is currently pursuing.

Her experience as an active Provincial Adjudicator, Choral Clinician, and Choral Pedagogue is vast.

She conducts professional choirs as well as works extensively with Adult and Children’s Community Choirs, of whom many are impoverished and disadvantaged, yet their determination and zeal to sing and develop their abilities in the face of adversity surmounts all challenges.

In her spare time, Karen is a culinary artisan. She has her own International Cooking show where she creates and cooks vegetarian and Plant based recipes. This show is aired in Russia, USA, Australia, Germany, throughout Africa.

Karen is the Founder and CEO of a Whole Plant Based Program called A New Dawn. Karen is the  first Person of Colour and First Woman to conduct The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra.

Meet Wayne McKay - Mc /comedian and funny man from Cape Town.

We sat down and chewed the fat on what's funny, and what's a joke, enjoy.

Meet Karen Schofield-Nel, UCT Choir Conductor and Artistic Director. 

As Music Director, Artistic Director, Music Lecturer, Choral Clinician, Adjudicator, Scholar, Karen Schofield - Nel’s work spans over a wide variety of ages, abilities, genres.

Her experience as an active Provincial Adjudicator, Choral Clinician, and Choral Pedagogue is vast.

She conducts professional choirs as well as works extensively with Adult and Children’s Community Choirs, of whom many are impoverished and disadvantaged, yet their determination and zeal to sing and develop their abilities in the face of adversity surmounts all challenges.

Karen has conducted The Symphonic Choir.

The University of Stellenbosch Academic Choir - Schola Cantorum.

The Cape Town Soloist Choir.

The Nelson Mandela University Choir; 

The 200 voice Festival of Hope Choir.

The 300 voice Johannesburg Choir.

She is currently the Founder and Music Director of The Peninsula Tabernacle Chorale in Cape Town.

Karen is the  first Person of Colour and First Woman to conduct The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra.

 Karen holds a Double Degree in both Music and Education (Thayer Conservatory, AUC - USA), M.Mus in Choral Conducting (Stellenbosch University), which has been transferred into a PhD in Music, which she is currently pursuing.

In her spare time, Karen is a culinary artisan. She has her own International cooking show where she creates and cooks vegetarian and plant-based recipes. The show is aired in Russia, USA, Australia, Germany, throughout Africa.

Karen is the Founder and CEO of a Whole Plant Based Program called A New Dawn.

Billy Monama is a guitarist, author, composer, arranger, producer, and educator. He’s also the founder and the Managing Director of The Grazroots Project. 

This is the second part of the interview conducted in December 2023.

In 1997, Monama began his journey with the guitar, inspired by the music of his childhood, which combined traditional ethnic sounds, African gospel and jazz. 

In 2016, Billy and Andy Innes released their album Brothers, a collection of original pieces written and arranged for the acoustic guitar in traditional styles.

In October 2017, he released his debut album Rebounce. 

Three years later, he released tutorial videos about South African guitar styles, all why accepting multiple invitations to guest on other artists projects.

Billy Monama is a guitarist, author, composer, arranger, producer, and educator. He’s also the founder and the Managing Director of The Grazroots Project. 

I chatted to him of the festive season of 2023.

In 1997, Monama began his journey with the guitar, inspired by the music of his childhood, which combined traditional ethnic sounds, African gospel and jazz. 

In 2016, Billy and Andy Innes released their album Brothers, a collection of original pieces written and arranged for the acoustic guitar in traditional styles.

In October 2017, he released his debut album Rebounce. 

Three years later, he released tutorial videos about South African guitar styles, all why accepting multiple invitations to guest on other artists projects.

Monama has worked with artists including Themba Mkhize, Abdullah Ibrahim, Andile Yenana, Sibongile Khumalo, Victor Ntoni, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, Mbongeni Ngema, Dorothy Masuku, Abigail Kubeka, amongst many more.

We spoke to Ryan Vrede this week on the Business of Entertainment on Thurs 21 Dec at 9pm on Cape Talk.

Engaging brilliant and thought provoking do listen please

Ryan Vrede is a journalist that cut his teeth in sport, which continues to form a big part of his professional portfolio.

He joined Habari Media as an intern in 2006, and, under the mentorship of some of the country’s preeminent sports writers, built a career covering rugby and cricket.

Vrede spent 17 years following the Springboks and Proteas, nationally and internationally, before shifting focus to launch a clutch of magazine and digital products.

He later left Habari Media to work as the creative director of a web design company, before returning in 2022, assuming a diverse role that includes overseeing motoring and travel across the company.

He is also part of the team that builds pitches for new business, as well as offering creative direction for existing clients.

Sport, however, remains his first love, with cricket in particular, a passion of his.

His commentary can be found on SA Cricket magazine’s digital platforms, while he can also be found on Twitter/X. (Ryan_Vrede) most likely scrapping with an egg avatar who has irritated him.

To date, acts Marc discovered or managed have notched up 38 Top 10 singles, including 18 #1 singles in the UK charts. 

He has been responsible for over a million album sales in one form or another, including his ten years of direct international responsibility for U2's marketing and sales.

Marc Marot began his professional career in 1982 as the 'Professional Manager' of UK Independent music publisher, Eaton Music ltd, working with film composers George Fenton, Carl Davis and Henry Mancini and pop groups including Status Quo.
He was appointed Managing Director of Chris Blackwell's Blue Mountain Music in 1984, working with U2 and the reggae catalogue.
Marc's publishing signings include, amongst many others, Massive Attack, De La Soul, Julia Fordham, and Shakespeare's Sister (Marcy Levy).
He headed every division of Island until Marc was appointed MD of Island Records in 1990, the youngest MD in the UK music industry at the time.

Amongst the artists signed and developed by his team while at Island Records were:

            • Pulp

         • PJ Harvey

         • The Stereo MCs

         • P.M. Dawn

         • The Cranberries

         • Elbow

         • Chaka Demus and Pliers

         • NWA

         • The Orb

         • Ice Cube

         • Talvin Singh

         • Tricky

         • Nine Inch Nails
During his tenure as Island Records MD, Island artists won the prestigious Mercury Music Record of the Year prize three times and 10 Island short-listed albums. Artists signed during the period have subsequently gone on to win 25% of all the prizes awarded in the 20-year history of the competition.
He guided U2's career throughout the 1990s, from the release of Achtung Baby to just before the release of All You Can't Leave Behind, selling close to 60 million albums.

In 1998 he introduced Bono to the concept of Third World debt relief via his involvement in the 'Jubilee 2000' campaign. He oversaw the 'drop the debt' initiative within the music industry. Bono has thanked him on both the stage of the MTV awards and whilst addressing the UN council chamber in New York.

Ryan Vrede is a journalist who cut his teeth in sport, which continues to form a big part of his professional portfolio. 

He joined Habari Media as an intern in 2006, and, under the mentorship of some of the country's preeminent sports writers, built a career covering rugby and cricket.

Vrede spent 17 years following the Springboks and Protea's cricket team, nationally and internationally, before shifting focus to launch a clutch of magazine and digital products. 

He later left Habari Media to work as the creative director of a web design company, before returning in 2022, assuming a diverse role that includes overseeing motoring and travel across the company.  

He is also part of the team that builds pitches for new business, as well as offering creative direction for existing clients. Sport, however, remains his first love, with cricket in particular, a passion of his. 

His commentary can be found on SA Cricket magazine's digital platforms, while he can also be found on Twitter, most likely scrapping with an egg avatar who has irritated him. On weekends he spends his time knicking off to medium pacers for his beloved Avendale Cricket Club in Athlone.

The Brilliance of Dr Rachel Adams - this is part two of a stellar talk about AI, please enjoy.

Tune in to Cape Talk, every Thursday at 9pm, for the #BusinessofEntertainment

Dr Rachel Adams is a Senior Research Specialist: Science in Society Impact Centre at the Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa. 

Dr Adams has degrees in Jurisprudence (PhD, University of Cape Town), International Human Rights Law (MPhil, University of Cape Town) and English Literature and Philosophy (BA, Royal Holloway, University of London). 

Her research lies at the intersection of philosophy, gender, technology, law and race. 

Dr Adams sits on the Independent Expert Panel of the South African Department of Science and Innovation and Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Centre on Artificial Intelligence Research (CAIR), and she is a member of the Independent Advisory Group of the Surveillance Camera Commissioner for the UK Home Office. 

Dr Adams is further an Editor of the South African Journal on Human Rights, and the author of Transparency: New Trajectories in Law (Routledge, 2020).

Dr Rachel Adams is an experienced leader in directing large regional and global projects relating to AI policy.

She is currently the Principal Investigator of the Global Index on Responsible AI and the AI4D African Observatory on Responsible AI.

Before taking up her post at Research ICT Africa, Rachel was a Chief Research Specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council of South Africa, and previously the Senior Researcher for Civil and Political Rights at the South African Human Rights Commission.

Rachel sits on numerous boards and expert panels including the UNESCO Expert Group on the Implementation of the UNESCO Recommendation on AI in Ethics, the expert advisory board of an Ada Lovelace project on the future of AI and genomics, as well as on the Independent Oversight Committee of the UK Home Office Surveillance Camera Commissioner on Automatic Number Plate Recognition.

Captured on The Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk every Thursday evening, this was one of the earlier interviews from the show.

Jason and I, chew the fat and unpack his side of the business as a music journalist and marketer.

Having spent the last 30-odd years heavily invested the the entertainment economy, Jason remains active in helping push the needle in an economy rich in talent, but light on business smarts.

Jeremy Loops, is a South African singer, songwriter, and record producer.

We discuss: Jeremy Thomas Hewitt –  How did 'Loops' arrive?

He graduated in Finance and Property Development – Why do music instead?
The business of Music – Do artists really know what’s going on and how it impacts them? This and so much more in this frank discussion.

Please enjoy.

This was really good on the #businessofentertainment on Thursday night, 9pm, on CapeTalk ( 16th Nov ) with Wouter Kellerman.

We talked about music, life, inspiration and being a double Grammy Award winner 🎹🇿🇦 🙌🏼🙌🏼

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9pm, has landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one.

We speak to Nick Dall who has an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Cape Town.

He’s written about everything from coelenterates to circus acts, but it’s the barely believable tales of our past that get him most excited. He lives in Cape Town with his wife and kids.

My fascination with author Nick Dall is because of the Miriam [Makeba] story in the book.

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9pm, has landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one. This is part two of our interview.

We speak to Nick Dall who has an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Cape Town.

He’s written about everything from coelenterates to circus acts, but it’s the barely believable tales of our past that get him most excited. He lives in Cape Town with his wife and kids.

My fascination with author Nick Dall is because of the Miriam [Makeba] story in the book.

Dr Trevor Jones, one of the Top 5 film composers in the world.
 Having recently received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Cape Town, Jones will deliver invaluable insights into his rich catalogue of award-winning compositions in this second part of the  interview on Cape Talk.

He has worked on numerous well-known and acclaimed films, including Notting Hill, Excalibur, Runaway Train, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, Mississippi Burning, The Last of the Mohicans, and In the Name of the Father, collaborating with filmmakers like John Boorman, Andrei Konchalovsky, Jim Henson, and Michael Mann.

Martin Myers talks to the world-renowned SA-born composer Trevor Jones on Cape Talk's The Business of Entertainment.

Having spent most of his career in the United Kingdom, Jones has worked on numerous well-known and acclaimed films including, Notting Hill,  Runaway Train, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, Mississippi Burning, The Last of the Mohicans and In the Name of the Father. 

Trevor has collaborated with filmmakers including John Boorman and Michael Mann.

He has been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards and three BAFTA Awards for Best Film Music.

In fact, Dr Jones gifted the show's opening and closing music .

What happens when you celebrate all that's good about ZA? Push back, resistance, negativity and small-minded stupidity - This is a life lesson in claiming the higher moral ground, for the greater good.

https://martinmyersct.com/2023/10/27/playlist-for-rugby-world-cup-final-2023/

Part 2 of a stunning talk

We invited Robert Plummer Senior Managing Editor | Penguin Non-Fiction to talk about book publishing on the Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk on Thursday 26th October 2023.

His work involves overseeing the process of turning manuscripts into published books.

He has been working in publishing for over 25 years.

He publishes a range of non-fiction: politics, current affairs, history, biography, sport, business and personal finance.

Born in South Africa, Jason completed his secondary education in the USA and landed a job at Google.

He quit the company in 2013 to take his music blog Indie Shuffle full-time.

After a few ups and downs, his journey led him to start SubmitHub, a website that connects musicians with curators and influencers.

Today it is the market leader in its niche, creating tens of thousands of connections on a daily basis.

We invited Robert Plummer Senior Managing Editor | Penguin Non-Fiction to talk about book publishing on the Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk on Thursday 19th October at 9pm.

His work involves overseeing the process of turning manuscripts into published books.

He has been working in publishing for over 25 years.

He publishes a range of non-fiction: politics, current affairs, history, biography, sport, business and personal finance.

The Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9pm, landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one.

We spoke to Shakatak on Thursday 12th October at 9pm. We chatted to Jill Saward (lead vocals) and Bill Sharpe (keys).

The band has firmly established itself as a vibrant live act, combining astute musicianship with a sense of fun that translates perfectly with audiences worldwide to this day.

Shakatak, comprising Jill Saward (lead vocals), Bill Sharpe (keys), Keith Winter (guitar), George Anderson (bass), and Roger Odell (drums) are on a world tour and have a new album coming out on the 27th of October 2023 titled, Eyes of the World . Please enjoy.

Great Streaming Boom: the mass move to video on demand (VOD) services, such as Netflix, Disney+ and Viu. We speak to Leslie Adams from Reach Africa

As an expert in the streaming space, Leslie has analysed this shift towards online streaming services in parallel to the decline of live TV.

While this is very much a global phenomenon, Leslie believes that there are certain factors, in particular, that make the SA market particularly amenable to video on demand (VOD).

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9pm, has landed a real coup with this exclusive one-on-one.

We spoke to Suzanne Ackerman founder of Feed the Nation.(www.feedthenation.org.za ) on Thursday 5 October at 9pm

Suzanne speaks in depth about philanthropy and what it means and what we can all do to be better.

Her ethos of “doing good is good business” is at the heart of everything she does.

Be prepared to be inspired and blown away by the sheer gravitas of what the organisation does.

And find out what you can do with fundraising and what R1500.00 can do.

We speak to Suzanne Ackerman founder of Feed the Nation.( www.feedthenation.org.za ) last night Thursday 28 Sept at 9pm on cape talk.

Suzanne speaks in depth about Philanthropy and what it means and what we can all do to be better.

Her ethos of “doing good is good business” is at the heart of everything she does.

Be prepared to be inspired and blown away by the sheer gravitas of what the organisation does.

A discussion with Jarrod Aston of Audio Analytics and Radio Monitor, about his career in the music industry. music tech, digital media, music rights, broadcast monitoring and serial business entrepreneur.

Now in its 21st Week, the Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk, hosted by Martin Myers every Thursday at 9 pm, had a great guest last night.

Duncan Cruickshank is a media consultant in the Sports Industry at large with a focus on Rugby and Golf.

Last week we unpacked the DHL Stormers and now this week 21 September, we got to understand the Business of Golf which is all part of the Business of Entertainment.

Sara - Jayne Makwala King profiles Siphokazi Jonas on Weekend Breakfast on Cape Talk, Saturday, 16 September 2023.

Bob Lefsetz, like many major labels I have read comments from on the back of the Universal/Deezer deal, simply do not get or understand the Super Fan model that’s being successfully championed by BandLab. 60 million + subscribers and climbing confirms people love it.

Streaming pays from the very first play, yes at 0.0007 cents, but paid out they will be, if only when they hit a certain number, but that money stays theirs.

Secondly the Super Fan model, under the Deezer/Uni deal rewards active artists who curate and look to foster community with double income (0.0014) or quadruple (0.0028) in certain cases. Yes, it’s not a perfect model, but it puts the power back in the hands of the artists and their fans. 

MEX endorse it.

Duncan Cruickshank, a media consultant to the DHL Stormers.

He has an in-depth knowledge of professional rugby as an experienced marketing and communications specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the broader sports industry.

Duncan is skilled in Marketing Strategy, Marketing Management, Brand Development, Event Management, Media Relations and Sponsorship.

The MD of Respect Music,  Roy Harman  is a music lover that has weaved his way in the South African music industry as an artist manager, record label owner, live music coordinator and event producer. 

This year he celebrates 20 years in the music industry.
We talked Loyiso Bala, Soweto Gospel Choir, Mojo Market and much more.

South African writer, poet, and producer, Siphokazi Jonas speaking on The business of Entertainment on Cape Talk last night at 9pm  (31 August 2023).

She was speaking in depth about the award winning short film  #WeAreDyingHere ,the challenges and can do attitude and the graft needed to push forward.  

The production was adapted into an award-winning short film, which has screened at numerous international film festivals. 

Siphokazi  holds an MA in English Literature as well as an undergraduate degree in Drama and English. 

Her awards include:

* A producer SAFTA for Best Short Film for  #WeAreDyingHere 

* Most Innovative Young Artist by the Western Cape Cultural Affairs Awards.

* 100 Sunday World Unsung Heroes.

The business of Entertainment airs every Thurs at 9pm on Cape Talk 

https://wearedyingherefilm.com/See more  on the Stations podcast link below for all the shows https://www.capetalk.co.za/podcasts/679/the-business-of-entertainment

Meet Siphokazi Jonas, the multi-award-winning South African poet, playwright, actor and producer, in conversation with me, Martin Myers.

No excuses just results - Michael Yormark, President of Roc Nation Sports International's mantra.

An honour and a privilege to have you in studio on CapeTalk on the weekly Thursday night 9pm show, the Business of Entertainment, hosted by Martin Myers.

Every Thursday at 9pm CapeTalk listeners can tune in for the station’s segment the ‘Business of Entertainment,’ that promises to deliver a fascinating and first-hand account of the South African entertainment industry.

This week's chat is with James Bösenberg the Chief Operating Officer at Quicket , about all things regarding tickets and ticketing for your events, even Free events.

Hosted by Music Exchange founder, music manager and publicist, Martin Myers this weekly half-hour segment will give powerful insights into the minds and careers of award-winning creatives, with a strong focus on the business side of the creative industry.

Life Coach Ian Martin is the owner and founder of COACH ONE.

Talking about what creatives say do and or have or don’t have.

Ego, arrogance, the authentic self and much more.

Ian has been a life coach for over 20 years.

WHO IS LIFE COACHING FOR?

People who are not living an optimal life, and looking for a shift from their self-destructive stuckness.

Individual/s who would like to reach their full potential relative to defined goals.

People who are self-injuring* as a result of their choices.

People wanting to live more expansively, with flow and abundance and find quality of life.

Vernon Adams speaks about Ladismith, and what he is doing in the town and his love of radio - exciting times ahead.

Get a head start on what will be happening in Ladismith, yes that's the one in the Western Cape ;-)

Please enjoy the learning.

Part 2, talking to SA music icon, Sipho 'Hotstix' Mabuse, re: Graceland, Clegg, The song "Party", and much more...

Having worked with the SA national treasure, Sipho 'Hotstix' Mabuse, since 1985, Martin chats with his longtime friend and colleague where fantastic memories are shared and rare truths revealed.

A Special Man – Life Coach Ian Martin owner and founder of COACH ONE, talking about what creatives say do and or have ego, arrogance, the authentic self and much more.

Ian has been a life coach for over 20 years pushing a conducive environment that encourages, inspires, ignites self-belief and confidence.

Brings on SELF healing, growth and personal development.

Illuminate self-love and respect allowing love to radiate – bringing on a higher level of consciousness for the individuals.

Meet my latest guest, Lesley Wells, on The Business of Entertainment which run every Thursday evening on Cape Talk.

Lesley Wells is a Cape Town based music manager and booking agent.

 Her career started in the corporate world in Johannesburg as a marketing, advertising, PR manager for a large insurance company.

In 1997, after returning to Cape Town, she joined forces with some former colleagues to form STARTRACKERS entertainment agency before buying them out in 1999.

STARTRACKERS was the first booking agency to launch a website showcasing the talent and the first agency to be run by non-musicians. 26 years later, as one of SA’s leading booking agents, STARTRACKERS continues to book artists, entertainment and speakers for blue chip corporates all over South Africa.

In 2005, after an approached by Mozambican Afro-jazz saxophonist, Moreira Chonguiça to fund the production of a demo of his original material, MORESTAR ENTERTAINMENT was born and the relationship with Moreira continues today. Today we have 8 albums in the catalogue, self funded and distributed and we own the rights to all the music.

MORESTAR ENTERTAINMENT records, publishes, distributes, and manages all things Moreira Chonguiça.

Social media handles

FB & IG – Startrackers

FB – MoreiraChonguicaMusic

IG – moreiramusic

T - LesleyWells61

[email protected]

[email protected]

+27 (0)83 702 8139

This week, I chat to Nic Guad, leader of the band, 7th Son about their new album and moving and living in Mauritius.

There are few as mighty as those who seek to democratize music for all. Meng Kuok is leading the way.

Music commentator Bob Lefsetz, like many major labels I have read comments from on the back of the recent Universal/Deezer deal, simply do not get or understand the Super Fan model that’s being successfully championed by BandLab. 60 million + subscribers and climbing confirms people love it.

Streaming pays from the very first play, yes at 0.0007 cents, but paid out they will be, if only when they hit a certain number, but that money stays theirs.

Secondly the Super Fan model, under the Deezer/Uni deal rewards active artists who curate and look to foster community with double income (0.0014) or quadruple (0.0028) in certain cases. Yes, it’s not a perfect model, but it puts the power back in the hands of the artists and their fans. 

I endorse it.

Paris Toon is the Billboard-charting, award-winning lyricist and the musical enigma behind Mothers Favorite Child. 

He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward-driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.

We chat about Prince, Robin S, Beyoncé, Carl Cox, AI, peak caps and more. Please enjoy.

Cape Town, 29 May 2023 – June is hotting up thanks to The People's Festival, Jazzathon 2023, returning to the Mother City for the 26th time!

As Cape Town's Jazzathon's African Celebration prepares to go live, come Friday, 23 June, all the way through to Sunday, 25 June 2023, reasons to be cheerful are plentiful thanks to this year's stellar line-up, including the legendary American guitar maestro, Stanley Gordon.

Grand Arena, GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World in Goodwood, Cape Town, is the space and place where booked-and-paid-for punters can look forward to a jam-packed, fun-filled weekend designed to knock music lovers' socks off.

Think Jimmy Dludlu, Kyle Shepherd, The Lady Day Big Band, Chad Saaiman, Seth Grey, Sarah-Jane, Youngsta, and The Black Ties, amongst many more, are all committed to wowing the crowds throughout the three-day-long jazz-fueled investment. That's Jazzathon's commitment to delivering quality productions, armed with over a quarter century's investment in maintaining and growing South Africa's love of popular jazz.

Add Cameron Ward, Don Vino and Jonathan Rubain to the mix, and winter looks to be anything other than frosty, especially if the Jazzathon Allstar Band has anything to do with proceedings.

Pop, Jazz, RnB, Hip Hop, and Soul all promise a look in at Jazzathon 2023 if promoter and organizer Craig Parks has his way. "It's our 26th jive around the block," Craig reminds. "This is not our first, nor our last, attempt at raising the bar in delivering exactly what the audience wants and expects to hear the very second they arrive at the hallowed halls of GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World."

Friday through Sunday, 24 June, is when jazz comes alive in Cape Town, so best the smart types amongst us step up, arrive and watch the carefully curated raft of quality creatives deliver their genius to us all.  

And before you ask, Hanover Street @ GrandWest is where we'll all decompress each night, long into the early hours and after the tumultuous encores.

Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.co.za

Radio in 2023 has become a vanity play for many legacy acts in this country.  I say this because terrestrial radio has long since not been the gatekeeper to artists' success, and yet so many look to it for bragging rights alone.

Sipho Hotstix Mabuse - Resident of Soweto his entire life, gives us a song list that define Soweto. Enjoy hearing about the musical DNA of this legendary South West township in South Africa.

Critically acclaimed singer, songwriter, producer, musical director, and vocal coach, RJ Benjamin returns to take on the charts, only this time, he’s got commanding backup.

Spotting the perfect match, RJ recruited award-winning and seminal master guitarist Cameron Ward to deliver even greater dimension and entirely homegrown and nurtured texture to “Yonela”, RJ’s brand-new, soon-to-be anthem.

South African creatives suffer from the assumption that their profile will automatically replicate, shy of doing any heavy lifting when it comes to promoting their art. Social Media is a powerful platform to promote your work, your gigs, and your overall investment in the entertainment economy. So, get involved or bow out and get out of the way and make room for willing and invested creatives who are.

MEX created an opportunity to go to the source. We had the rare privilege to host Buti Manamela, the Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science and Innovation. 

His previous portfolio was Deputy Minister for Higher Education and Training, and before that, he served as Deputy Minister in the Presidency: Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, Youth Development and Administration. 

Tumi Molekane (born 16 August 1981) is a Tanzanian-born, South African rapper and poet. He was Tumi and the Volume's lead vocalist, officially disbanding in 2012.

Fast forward to 2016, when Tumi relaunched his musical ambitions as Stogie T, along with the single "Diamond Walk", followed by an eponymous debut album which featured Da L.E.S, Lastee, Emtee, Nasty C, Nadia Nakai & Yanga.

This week I enjoyed the privilege of sitting with David Briggs, who specialises in the field of collaboration between individuals, teams and organisations. His work is informed by over 20 years of consulting with organisations undertaking large integrations and change projects.

He focuses on the micro, not the macro, in order to push the needle in his role - 'half research, half action'.

More recently, David has been working with senior leaders to help improve collaboration between organisations in complex supply chains, and between functions and business units in matrix structures. 

He is the inventor of The Collaboration Game®, a simulation designed to reflect the competing priorities of a typical business and help develop the mind set and skills necessary to collaborate effectively. 

Listen, learn, and enjoy.

A chat with Ezra Delport, from Cape Town, who is a top sound engineer now working in America with Kirk Whalum, amongst others.

Our friendship goes back to 1985. Listen and enjoy.

Chatted to John Maytham on Cape Talk on 27 December to discuss my Top 10 for 2022. Topics included: Dr Trevor Jones and Marc Marot both in Cape Town for Music Exchange in November. Marc being appointed Managing Director of Island Records in 1990, the youngest MD in the UK music industry at the time.

Other artists we discussed included: Moreira Chonguica, Steve Louw, and Bad Bunny, an a Puerto Rican rapper and singer. Sting R.Kelly, and many more.

Welcome back to the story behind Marc Marot, ex-Island Records Managing Director and today an artist in his own right.   

This is the second part of a two part interview that unpacks a journey that saw him promoted to the youngest Managing Director of a major record label at 29.   Amongst the artists signed and developed by his team while at Island Records were Pulp, PJ Harvey, The Stereo MCs, P.M. Dawn, The Cranberries, Elbow, Chaka Demus and Pliers, NWA, The Orb, Ice Cube, Talvin Singh, Tricky and Nine Inch Nails.  

Marc also guided U2’s career throughout the 1990s, from the release of Achtung Baby to just before the release of All you Can’t Leave Behind, selling close to 60 million albums in the process.   To date, acts discovered or managed by him have notched up 38 Top Ten singles, including 18 Number One singles in the UK charts alone.  In one form or another, Marc has been responsible for more than 100,000,000 album sales, including his ten years of direct international responsibility for U2’s marketing and sales. Listen, learn, and most importantly, enjoy 😊  

 @ISLAND RECORDS   @Island Records UK   @U2   @Nine Inch Nails   @Jarvis Cocker   @elbow   @Guy Garvey ​

Meet Marc Marot, ex-Island Records Managing Director and today an artist in his own right.  

This two-part interview unpacks a journey that saw him promoted to the youngest Managing Director of a major record label at 29.  

Amongst the artists signed and developed by his team while at Island Records were Pulp, PJ Harvey, The Stereo MCs, P.M. Dawn, The Cranberries, Elbow, Chaka Demus and Pliers, NWA, The Orb, Ice Cube, Talvin Singh, Tricky and Nine Inch Nails. Marc also guided U2’s career throughout the 1990s, from the release of Achtung Baby to just before the release of All you Can’t Leave Behind, selling close to 60 million albums in the process.  

To date, acts discovered or managed by him have notched up 38 Top Ten singles, including 18 Number One singles in the UK charts alone.  In one form or another, Marc has been responsible for more than 100,000,000 album sales, including his ten years of direct international responsibility for U2’s marketing and sales. 

Listen, learn, and most importantly, enjoy 😊

Ashley Dowds is a South African actor, television presenter and director best known as a continuity presenter for SABC3, and for co-presenting the reality travel show Going Nowhere Slowly, also on SABC3.

He is also known for his role as advertising executive Andrew McBain on the e.tv soapie Scandal!, since the show began in January 2005.

We discuss the current state of the Entertainment Economy in 🇿🇦.

This is part two of Marc Marot, ex-Island Records Managing Director and today an artist in his own right. This is the second part of a two-part interview that unpacks a journey that saw him promoted to the youngest Managing Director of a major record label at 29. Marc flew in from London last week to deliver a keynote address at #MEX22.

Meet Marc Marot, ex-Island Records Managing Director and today an artist in his own right.  This is a two-part interview that unpacks a journey that saw him promoted to the youngest Managing Director of a major record label at 29. Marc flew in from London this week to deliver a keynote address at #MEX22. 

We chatted to the legendary Terry Fortune about the state of the entertainment economy, circa 2022, as well as his time in District 6 The Musical and the work he continues doing with legacy acts, today.

Over the past 16 years, Dino Perera founded and built DINOCO Entertainment into one of the most respected companies in the music, entertainment and sports businesses based in New York. Dino was in SA two weeks ago with superstar Sybil, and we got to talk managers, music and more.

DINOCO Entertainment is a top provider of sports entertainment DINOCO Entertainment is a top provider of sports entertainment. As CEO,  Dino researches, negotiates, confirms and contracts domestic and international concerts, club performances, sporting events, fund-raising events, galas, political conferences, expos, festivals, casino, Personal, TV, and film appearances, as well as publicity interviews.

He routes and coordinates tours worldwide for numerous artists in Contemporary R&B/Classic Soul, Hip-Hop/Rap, Jazz, Gospel, Pop, Reggae/Soca and Dance/House/ED genres of music, as well as Comedians and Key-Note Speakers.

Recently I had the privilege of sitting with my dear friend Samm Marshall in Johannesburg. In this session he took me through Social TV, an online multimedia news channel focused on impact investment, sustainable development issues and shared values. Check it out, here: https://social-tv.co.za/ 

This week MEX talks about all things Twitter, Facebook, and blogs and what each one can do for your brand with website and media strategist Brian Currin.

Brian is the fuel that fires the likes of sugarman.org and stevelouw.com – look, and you’ll better understand this man’s passion and pedigree.

We chat to consummate pro Howie Combrink.

After releasing his critically acclaimed single, “The City”, in 2020, singer-songwriter and producer, Howie Combrink joined forces with Rada, a non-profit organisation, to release his new single, “I See You”.

The song was co-written with Craig Hinds, Howie’s previous band member and frontman of the band Watershed.

In this episode, I got to spend time with Berry. Listen and learn as she speaks about winning Idols SA, family and more. This sessions big takeout - Is the Idols franchise a poisonous chalice and a point of pop departure before you even start?

Listen to my chat with this top business executive, Craig Stein, He is a shareholder and Director at an impressively successful travel business, and is also deeply invested in the entertainment economy. Stunning thoughts for artists to ponder about the business of the business you’re in.

This week, I speak to Thando Fuze, a spoken word poet, writer, curator, and author of Conversations with The Human.

Born and bred in KZN, Fuze is based in Durban and this is her story.

A doyen of the SA music landscape, meet the fantastic Sophia Foster. Mindful of her own experiences when she started in the entertainment business in the mid-60s, she nurtured a vision of running a skills programme for up-and-coming youngsters with her Fostering Foundation. She spoke at Music Exchange in 2018 and continues to mentor artists in both programmes

You don’t choose music; music chooses you.

In new arrival Nicole Bacher’s case, the bug bit after getting married, raising children, and running a thriving psychology practice. Sixteen years later, Nicole closed her business to focus on and finish her studies. With that, gaps appeared in her usually jam-packed diary to feed her creative curiosity.

We speak to 24-year-old Cape Town resident, Charlie Void who is inspired by the likes of Lana Del Rey and Troye Sivan, and who has also poked fun at Lindsay Lohan in his song "Snort it", all while working within in the political landscape of the Western Cape.

A dynamic young man changing the narrative, one day at a time

Singer, songwriter Amy Jones has walked a long road with MEX, to the point that she was afforded many an opportunity, each one embraced, respected and reciprocated. Martin sat down with her to talk through her journey to here and what lies ahead with the release of "Waiting for Me". 

In this session Jason and I reflect on those pushing the needle and why they remain relevant. Deep listen and take the learning from people who have spent a fair amount of time in the game to know. 

It’s hard enough to make it in the music business and stay focused on the music, so beware of airing your dirty laundry and misguided opinions in public.

Martin and Jazzathon founder Craig Parks get to grips with what 2022's Jazzathon's June return teases, and a little more about Craig's road to here.

Martin sat down with Jazzathon's Festival Director, Craig Parks to talk through a 25-year journey in keeping the arts and artists alive, no matter the cost.

Meet Grant Eglin, in conversation with Martin. A wonderful, animated character made up of stock that's seen and experienced it all. This frank interaction offers the attuned listener a masterclass in entrepreneurship you're not likely to find anywhere else. Enjoy.

Martin sat down with Johannesburg's Snatch 32 live music venue-owners, Rory Sandilands and Dylan Lombard, to talk through what its taken to get through a pandemic in the live arena, all while grooming the likes of Ed Sheeran along the way.

Martin and I continue to interview local and international creatives to better understand their reality and learn from them too. In this session, Martin picks my brain to find out where I'm at and my take on the state of play. Enjoy.

Award-winning South African blues rock guitarist DAN PATLANSKY released his new studio album SHELTER OF BONES on 25th February 2022. The album was recorded over a three-year period from 2019-2021. Martin sat with the guitar-wizard to capture another stellar 30-minute session well worth your time.

Laverne is a style influencer, ambassador, and model living in Dubai.

Find out what this all means in today's world and how you can apply some of her lessons to your routine and work to grow and prosper. Oh, and follow her on Instagram: lavern_tm - she's a mine!

Sibongile Mngoma made a name for herself as one of the few cross-over artists in South Africa in recent years. She also heads up Iam4thearts as an arts activist.

Sibongile quickly moved from opera to classical to jazz and gospel, becoming a prevalent feature in the corporate market.

She’s won two significant awards, too – The Standard Bank Young Artist Award and the FNB Vita Award for Best Opera Female Lead.

Soweto born, Sibongile Mngoma is described as a ‘natural diva’. Schooled in KwaZulu, Natal, she completed a BA degree at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and completed her Honours in Education Drama. She also studied opera at the UCT College of Music and the Accademia Musicale Chigiana in Italy, awarded top honours. Sibongile was one of the finalists in the Rolex Foundation Mentor/Protege programme for 2004/2005, along with Jessey Norman.

Sibongile has performed in all the major opera houses in South Africa with the most prominent orchestras, and today she’s here to commit to learning. Enjoy.

Multi-instrumentalist David Watkyns, yes, with a 'y' ;-)  is a joy to behold, his recent Springbok Nude Girls inclusion aside. This interview, conducted by Martin, is glorious. Please enjoy. 

In this week's podcast, multi-award-winning producer, singer, songwriter, respected vocal coach and performer, RJ Benjamin unpacks the genesis of songs.

SAMPRA and #MEXCONNECT 

Be inspired by and learn from professional artists, while learning just how you too can propel your career in 2022.

Hosted by Martin Myers, Jason Curtis and Craig Parks, with special guest, Dylan Red.

SAMPRA  & #MEXCONNECT 

Be inspired by and learn from professional artists, while learning just how you too can propel your career in 2022.

Hosted by Martin Myers, Jason Curtis and Anton Marshall, with special guest, Jason Benson.

In late 2021, MEX went on tour with SAMPRA, taking a select few local entertainment industry heavyweights in musician Chad Saaiman, events specialist Craig Parks and music media strategist Jason Curtis along for the ride. The intention? To impart valuable, life-lived experience to a new generation of future hitmakers. Enjoy this, the first of three such immersions. Listen, share, and make the circle bigger.

The name Benjy Mudie is well known and respected within the music industry for his contribution in establishing and growing the careers of countless musicians, both local and international. Martin sat with him to unpack his journey to here. Commit 18 minutes and you'll walk away richer for having made the investment.

Engineering graduate, now Pilates instructor, Natalie Collins talks openly and frankly about her journey to Singapore and making a massive life change work for her.

We spoke to Molife Kumona, Editor-in-Chief of GQ South Africa, about the genesis of Sipho Mabuse on the cover of the GQ Jan/ Feb 2022 issue, out now.

Listen to Molife talking about the thought process behind putting Sipho on the cover. This interview was recorded on the 26th of October 2021, at Sipho’s home, during the shoot for the cover feature.

Jann Klose is an award-winning* pop singer-songwriter who has released six albums and two EPs. Klose was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany, and the United States. Jann's latest studio album, In Tandem, is out now via Gallo/Sheer in Africa and SONY/The Orchard, elsewhere. The record features collaborations with Annie Haslam (Renaissance), Peter Gabriel, Karen Zoid, Tamara Dey, RJ Benjamin and a who's-who of South African artists and session players.

His recent single, "Pilot Light", passed one million views on YouTube in just one month.

Jann is an ambassador for Desmond Tutu's TutuDesk campaign and Brick by Brick Uganda

He is also the singing voice of Tim Buckley in the movie "Greetings From Tim Buckley" (Universal). *Recipient of four Independent Music Awards and a Grammy® nomination.

Nicholas Wolpe is the current CEO of Liliesleaf, one of South Africa's foremost national heritage sites. Here, in conversation with Martin, listen to Nicholas regale stories about the late-great Archbishop Desmond Tutu, as well as his take on the state of the nation.

This is for our last podcast for 2021. Thank you, again, my friends, what a journey! Here's something from the beginning of the year that continues to resonate from the glorious Siphokazi Jonas.

Onward and upward.

We sat with Sylvestre Kabassidi at SAMPRA workshop in November 2021. This Congolese-born singer/ songwriter is a rebel with a sensitive soul, whose music breaks stereotypes and takes African songs in new  and exciting directions. Sylvestre represents the new generation of African artists emphasizing fragile melodies.

A custodian and ambassador of all things South African music-related, Nils took time out of his busy, now UK--based, reality to reflect on his journey in music and all that has impacted his life to now. Enjoy his intimate chat with Martin, here.

I had the rare privilege of spending 25 minutes in the company of the legendary Josh Groban. Deep listen to what he shared and take away the many lessons this session offers. Josh is a megastar because, beyond talent, he's plugged into the people who got and keep the chart-topper where he is today. Enjoy.

Martin sat down with the dynamic Jozi duo to talk through their collective lived experience as young musicians paving a path despite the pandemic.

Derek Geddes is a fashion industry enthusiast and founder of The Apparel Report Podcast. His work has lead him to collaborate with multiple education institutes, retailers, NGO's and industry bodies across the continent including: Old Khaki, Truworths, TFG and Mozambique Fashion Week. Martin caught up with him in Joburg to talk all things thread counted and more.

Ex-5fm producer and podcasting wiz, Spike Ballantine sat with Martin to talk through the murky world of podcasts, delivering crystal clear clarity on just how to approach the beast that is streaming.

A man gifted with a brilliant radio voice, Ian F sat down with Martin to unpack his journey in terrestrial radio. From 5fm to voice-overs and adding his voice to the world of Multichoice's SuperSport, this is a must-listen-to podcast for fans of the airwaves. 

Dylan Red is a Cape Town-born singer-songwriter who plays multiple instruments and has been performing professionally since 2016. He cut his musical teeth at the V&A Waterfront; he opened for Jazzathon 2019 at the V&A Waterfront.

His original music leans towards a combination of funk, blues, folk and pop. Recently, he has also incorporated a loop station, which allows him to perform as a one-man-band. 

Red’s 12-track album, First Take is out now with the first single, “Toxic”.

Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse celebrates his 70th birthday on the 2nd of November. To acknowledge and celebrate this extraordinary milestone, his manager, Martin Myers, made a call to bring a select group of people together to applaud his incredible contribution to the world of music. 

Antos Stella heads up a leading independent content aggregator in Africa, representing independent record labels, artists and producers. She initially consulted through AS Entertainment - and managed the buy out in 2012. Connect Content Africa (CCA) has grown into an independently owned content player based in Johannesburg with extensive knowledge in the African entertainment industry. They have offices in South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda. Their current client list includes Vodacom and MTN. Here, Martin unpacks it all.

MEX convenor and owner, Martin Myers, shares his Robert Kelly experience as a guest on Cape Talk, a record company employee at the height of his career, as well as a well-versed music-industry veteran in the face of recent R.Kelly events.

We speak to the band leader of 12 Dogs, Biko Mabuse, on the release on their debut Hip Hop EP, Consequence of Sound
If the surname looks familiar, you'd be right in assuming his dad is the music icon, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse. Enjoy listening to the confidence of this 19-year-old who is following in his father's footsteps and forging a career in music all his own. 

Martin recalls his All Blacks moments, while pulling it all back to what needs attention - the entertainment economy. 

The 11th annual Music Exchange (#MEX21), which got underway on Saturday, and runs until the 2nd of October, once again hosts many top international and local speakers.

The music conference aims to empower people across the entertainment economy about the business of music. It's like an online masterclass for anyone in the industry on how to safeguard their rights, whether it be as an artist, writer, producer, or publicist.

But it's also a platform to inform and educate them on current best practices in the local and global entertainment industry.

We speak to the founder and convenor of the Music Exchange, Martin Myers.

This week, MEX tackles the power and importance of planning. The devil is in the detail, so pay attention and be well prepared in order to, potentially, be heard. 

Sipho Mabuse is a music industry icon, a stalwart who, throughout his 50-year music career, has seen and heard it all. MEX founder, Martin Myers, chatted to "Hotstix" and asked him to share in this week’s OTC session. The topic: Don't believe the hype. We urge you to listen and learn from the great man himself.

This week, Martin and I take you through the MEX journey, from a chance meeting with Stuart Rubin, right through to where it is today, 11 years in. Today MEX is a globally supported and endorsed brand that tirelessly continues to effect positive change within the entertainment economy.

This week, MEX - On the Couch tackles the prickly topic of the opportunist economy most creatives find themselves in. Sadly, pandemic, and depressed economy aside, artists continue to be played by some of the smallest and biggest brands on the planet. Forewarned is forearmed.

Celebrated singer, songwriter, producer, composer, musical director and award-winning vocal coach, RJ Benjamin unpacks the power of harnessing the best vocal delivery in this two part masterclass.

With no rule book to follow, when it comes to eliciting engagement and growing your audience, creatives need to look and learn from those doing it well. This week, we unpack few.

This week MEX addresses the power and importance of building and maintaining a network that can influence your success potential.

MEX founder, Martin Myers and Jason Curtis deliver their weekly take on the state of play, regarding all things entertainment economy focused.

Today's talk is around all things media related. Look out for next weeks episode, where we will be chatting about the power of influence and gravitas in relation to the entertainment economy.

                                                      For more on what MEX is and does, go to: www.musicexchange. org.za 

Get your weekly fix of music news, insights and other outtakes on the state of play - the SA and global entertainment economy, amplified.