SAfm has won the  BASA Media Sponsorship Award for the inaugural SAfm Playwriting Competition. The 18th BASA Awards were held at the Constitutional Court last night and the awards were handed out by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mhtethwa and the Chairman of the BASA Board of Directors, Kwanele Gumbi.  The Minister congratulated SAfm for a job well done, while the Chairman of BASA said that he was pleased to note that SAfm wasn’t just “all talk” and that we were playing our part in furthering the Arts in South Africa.

Drama is part of the SAfm mandate and ICASA license conditions and is something we are obliged to do. However, it is something that Julia Ann Malone our Executive Producer for Drama,  does with passion and dedication because we believe that it is a form of radio that can make a difference to people’s lives and perceptions.  We are a nation of story-tellers and the SAfm Playwriting Competition is just another way that we are providing a platform for the telling of the stories that make up the rich tapestry of the country. The competition’s objectives include the unearthing of new writing talent and the encouragement of the use of radio as a means of expression.

The competition exceeded all expectations in receiving over 300 entries and apart from the 3 prize-winning plays, it yielded more than 30 other new plays ready for broadcast. They are currently on air.

SAfm are currently putting the finishing touches to the 2nd edition of the competition that will be launched soon.

On the 28 and 29 September 2015 Barungwa Productions will be auditioning for Amandla the Musical. First produced in 1980 by Dr Jonas Gwanga, the protest musical travelled the world communicating the injustices of apartheid and galvanising international solidarity for the ANC liberation movement.

Audition details

Venue: South African State Theatre (301 Church Street, Pretoria).

Times: 28 September – 10h00 – 17h00

29 September – 10h00 – 17h00

Requirements:

Singers;

Dancers with experience in indigenous South African dance; Actors; Musicians able to play indigenous South African instruments; Special attention will be paid to artist able to sing, dance and act or two of any.

Amandla the Musical will be producedby Barungwa Productions, under the leadership of Dr Jonas Gwanga, in partnership with the Music Academy of Gauteng (MAG) and with support from the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC).

Transport via taxi, the Gautrain and bus is readily available and there is fast food options available just outside premises.

For more information on the audition process please contact: Ntsako Mkhabela on+27 76 238 6702  or write to auditions@amandlatheproduction.co.za for other general information please write to info@amanglatheproduction.co.za

SABC  is proud to be a media partner for the South African Traditional Music Achievement (SATMA Awards)  which will take place at the University of Zululand in Richards Bay – KwaZulu Natal on Friday 02 and Saturday 03 October  2015, under the theme “I am an African ”.

On Friday the event will host  Comedy and Fashion Show,13 Categories will be announced and the will be performances by various traditional groups. On Saturday evening is the main music awards ceremony and 15 music categories will be announced.

SABC’s spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says,” The SATMA Awards offers an opportunity to the SABC to continue showcasing  the countries music cultural diversity.  Music occupies a central place in the SABC’s programming, be it traditional, Jazz, Gospel, Choral Music or any genre, music plays a crucial role in the promotion of the culture of South Africa’s people and the rest of the continent.

The SATMA Awards Founder Dr. Dumisani Goba promised that the, “SATMA Awards will continue to honour and preserve South Africa’s culture and heritage through its support of the arts”. He further challenged government and associated Arts and culture departments to put their financial muscles behind programs that support the upliftment of Traditional Music,  Culture and Heritage.

SATMA Awards promote, preserve, uplift, develop, stage multicultural exchanges, honour and award traditional musicians across racial and ethnic background.

The Red Carpet will start at 17h30 with VIP Guest such as Celebrities, Traditional Musicians and High Ranking Government Officials.

The official Award Ceremony will start at 19h00 with breathtaking performances by some of the SATMA Awards Nominees, Icons and Legends of Traditional Music.

Some of the SABC talent that will grace the event include, Bheka Mchunu (uKhozi FM), Ngizwe (Ukhozi FM),

SABC will also support the SATMA Awards as follows:

Ukhozi FM:

Ukhozi FM is a host platform for the SATMA’s  2015.  The station will broadcast  at Empangeni on Friday 2^nd  and Saturday 3^rd October.  uKhozi FM talent will engage and connect with its listeners and artist at the event.   All other SABC Radio stations will be supporting and covering the event and doing interviews with various artist nominated for the SATMA’s.

• Interviewing SATMA AWARDS Winners during and post Award Ceremony by SABC Radio Stations.

SABC 1:

Selimathunzi  and ROOTS will do the insert which will be broadcast later on the channel.

SABC 1  will broadcast the SATMA AWARDS later in October.

Having collected over a 100 matric dance dresses last year for learners in Diepsloot Combined School, in the year 2015 C4U would like to double the number to 200 and increase the number of schools.

C4U is a career guidance academy that facilitates the process of quality career decision making in disadvantaged areas. Following various engagements that C4U conducts, a few learners from these disadvantaged areas where identified, learners who dream to celebrate their high school journey-however they have no means to do such.

As it is now, matric learners are busy with the preparations of the second most anticipated day of their high school life, a day that marks a celebration of their high school life. It is for this reason that C4U saw it fit to engage on a matric dance drive, an event aimed at transforming disadvantaged young girls and boys into prince/ princesses for this special day and assist them offload the stress of matric year by giving them hope that they are not alone in this journey of success. Help us see matric learners exit school on a high note.

Schools that will be involved for this event are: Diepsloot combined school, Steve Tshwete Secondary, Diepsloot No 3 Secondary School ,East Bank high school, Bokgoni Secondary School , Rietvallei Secondary School and Ekwazini secondary school

C4U calls for people who are willing to join hands in donating dresses and suits for these young learners. The idea is for people to donate new or previously worn gowns, shoes and other glamorous attire to this project.

For drop offs, please contact Careers For A Powerful You, (C4U)

Contact: 010-590-5594/ 076-707-4234

[Issued by:C4U]

Producer, DJ, songwriter and entertainment blogger Roxxi collaborates with iconic South African rapper, Reason on one the hottest summer tracks of 2015, ‘Like Whoo’!  The hip hop single also features the sensationally talented female rapper Nadia Nakai on vocals and new talent Yung Swiss on the hook.  This ground-breaking collaboration promises to establish Roxxi as a forced to be reckoned with.

One of the hottest and most thrilling music collaborations will be released on Soundcloud on Friday, 2 October 2015 and will be available for free download on Friday only: https://soundcloud.com/roxxiofficial

“Nadia Nakai and I have been good friends for some time now. She has been key in helping introduce me to the hip hop world as I previously was entrenched in the house market only. She was instrumental in hooking me up with Playground Productions – they previously worked with both Nadia and Reason on their tracks. I met with Kyle and the team and immediately we vibed.” says Roxxi.

Since firmly establishing herself on the DJ scene five years ago, Roxxi has accomplished many firsts for a female DJ and has inspired and motivated many female DJs in Africa. Roxxi is set to release an EP early next year which will consist of some revolutionary hip hop and house collaborations.  The music video for “Like Whoo” will be released later this year.

2-PART EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WHERE AKA LAYS BARE HIS SOUL, TALKS CANDIDLY ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH ZINHLE, THE CASSPER SAGA, TWITTER VENTING AND THE BONANG QUESTION

Tune in this Friday as MTV Base VJ Sizwe Dhlomo hosts an exclusive and candid MTV Base interview, with South African Hip Hop sensation, AKA, as the MTV Base aims to find out the story ‘behind the story’, face-to-face with the man himself.

To the public he is AKA, the controversial and multi award winning global artist, but to those that know him he is Kiernan Forbes – a father and a businessman who will give his all for his one passion – music.

“Behind The Story” Part One will premiere on MTV Base (DStv channel 322) on Friday 2 October at 17:00 CAT and Part Two on Saturday 3 October at 11:00 CAT.

No stranger to controversy and speaking his mind, AKA – currently in the running for “Best African Act” at the 2015 MTV EMAs chose to sit down with MTV Base and speak openly on a range of issues following a media frenzy about revelations in his personal life.

In this 2-part exclusive, we find out about: the break up with his baby mama DJ Zinhle, (“I made choices that might have put me before her, or before my child or before my family,”); his life as a father with his 2 month old baby girl, Kairo, his rivalry and notorious feud with Cassper Nyovest (“I never back down from challenges and I don’t view it as a distraction, I view it as, this is part of my career, this is what it is,” ); his alleged new girlfriend Bonang Matheba (“Things are tough right now between everybody involved in this saga,”);  his popular diss track “Composure”, and his thoughts around the sensitive issue of SA’s Hottest MCs.

Tune in to this 2-part exclusive as AKA and Sizwe leave no stone unturned and put the rumours to bed once and for all.

R&B SUPERSTAR MAXWELL ANNOUNCED AS ONE OF MANY INTERNATIONAL STARS TO PERFORM AS PART OF MULTIPLE EVENTS TO BE HELD, 12 DECEMBER 2015.

R&B superstar Maxwell is heading to SA shores this summer to headline the BET Experience Africa, a spectacular global celebration of urban culture, music and lifestyle, from entertainment channel BET (DStv channel 129).

Making its African debut on 12 December, BET Experience Africa provides the perfect kick off to the summer season, taking over the Ticketpro Dome for a non-stop, jam-packed entertainment fest, bringing together lovers of urban culture and music. Wowing visitors all day long, the BET Experience Africa will showcase great food, fashion, music, comedy, dance, sport and much, much more.

Inspiring, immersive and hugely entertaining, BET Experience Africa will feature stunning live performance on a central Sound Stage, while stand-up routines from comedy stars will keep the audience laughing. Reserve your court-side seat for the fun-packed Celebrity Basketball Game and you could be watching top celebrities battle each other for sporting supremacy!

Fashionistas will revel in the Fashion & Beauty catwalk, while checking out the hottest trends on the Sneaker scene.  For inspiration, attend one of BET’s informative and instructive Genius Talks, curated by experts and opinion formers in various fields.

The day will be rounded off with the BET Experience Concert, with superstar artists headlined by GRAMMY Award winning R&B musician Maxwell, alongside other international and African performers. Further talent taking part in BET Experience Africa will be announced at a later date.

Commented Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Africa, “VIMN Africa and BET are proud to introduce this incredibly successful BET franchise to African audiences for the first time, celebrating so many rich and varied faces of the urban lifestyle experience under one roof.”

BET Experience Africa is promoted in partnership with Glen 21 and inspired by the BET Experience, held annually in Los Angeles.

Tickets for the BET Experience Africa are on sale now at www.ticketpro.co.za.  Ticket prices (which include access to the sound stage and other lifestyle activities, plus the concert in the evening) range from R750 on the mezzanine level to R1150 (floor standing), R1250 (floor bleachers) and Golden Circle at R1500.

East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game kicked off this morning, with celebrities and sports stars attending the launch at the station’s headquarters in Umhlanga.  The annual CSI campaign is aimed at giving joy by providing every child in a government hospital, children’s home and orphanage in KwaZulu-Natal with a brand new toy.

Cash donations to East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game help sustain child-headed households over the long end-of-year school holidays. Each food parcel costs R350 and can feed a family of four people for six weeks.

Sharkie joined Sharks player Khaya Majola, Sunfoil Dolphins’ players Calvin Savage and Daryn Smit and musicians Kyle Deutch, Sketchy Bongo and Aewon Wolf in supporting this morning’s launch of the campaign which is now in its 15^th year.

“We are always incredibly humbled by the kindness and generosity shown by people from all across KZN during this annual initiative,” says East Coast Radio’s General Manager, Boni Mchunu. “Listeners go all out to help us and our key sponsor, Game, make a difference in the lives of KZN’s disadvantaged children as we work towards building a better society for KZN.”

Speaking at the launch, Mchunu also extended her heartfelt thanks to the stakeholders who make this year’s social outreach programme possible, namely Game, Dawn Wing, Red Cross Air Mercy Services and Champ Marketing.

“Game is delighted to be part of the East Coast Toy Story for the fifth year running,” says Game Marketing and Customer Director, Mark Turner. “This is one of the campaigns that are close to our hearts as it proof of the heights that can be attained through the collective efforts of the people of South Africa. East Coast Toy Story reminds us that we all have an important duty to play in ensuring the well-being of disadvantaged children, it is always so heart-warming to see the smile that a toy or a much needed meal can bring to the face of a child. We believe that the contributions made will make a tangible difference in the lives of the children.”

Last year, KZN listeners, schools  and businesses donated 31 000 new toys and more than R1.7 million to East Coast Radio’s Toy Story with Game, which funded 4685 food parcels. To get involved this year, donate a new toy or make a cash donation at your nearest Game store. Toys can also be dropped off at East Coast Radio’s offices in Umhlanga. Banking details and further information are available at www.ecr.co.za

If your business or school would like to get involved, email toystory@ecr.co.za  to request a collection box.

As is tradition, East Coast Radio will broadcast the 12pm to 3pm show live from Newcastle on 23 October 2015, giving businesses and residents in the area a chance to get involved to help make a difference. Celebrities and personalities will join us for the Toy Story Corporate Day Challenge on 20 November 2015 at the Pavilion Shopping Centre.  The initiative rounds off with the Toy Story Cavalcade on 15 December 2015.

Jacaranda FM announced today that Gavin Meiring has been appointed as the new Programme Manager to the award winning radio station.

Meiring, formerly Programme Manager at East Coat Radio in Durban and MD at Heart FM in Cape Town, replaces Naveen Singh who has been promoted to a new role within Kagiso Media.

“It’s really exciting for me to be involved in a radio station like Jacaranda FM, which I have admired for many years. I look forward to this new challenge and being part of this great product which has such a powerful position in the South African market,” said Meiring on his appointment.

Meiring’s pedigree and vast experience across several radio stations make him the perfect fit for Jacaranda FM. Bringing with him over 25 years of  radio experience, his achievements include being part of the launch of East Coast Radio and launching P4 radio as Heart FM and growing their listenership figures to the highest since inception.

Jacaranda FM’s General Manager, Kevin Fine says “Gavin has the right mix of creative and technical skills and I’m positive that his experience will contribute to the growth of Jacaranda FM.”

Comedy Central (DStv channel 122) achieved record ratings for the hotly anticipated TV premiere of The Daily Show with Trevor Noah on the channel (29 September at 21:00 CAT).

The new incarnation of the show, hosted by SA comedian Trevor Noah, scored a rating of 2.6 – the highest rating ever achieved by Comedy Central in SA (the record holder until now was the Comedy Central Roast of Steve Hofmeyr, also hosted by Noah, which scored a 2.0 back in 2012). In addition, #DailyShow and #TrevorDay trended on both the 28 and 29 September at number 1 and 2 in South Africa, beating all conversation about the Rugby World Cup, with over 100K original posts across Social Media.

In the USA, the premiere of the show performed amazingly well, scoring a total of 7.5 million viewers across the simulcast of Viacom Media Networks brands.  On Comedy Central, ratings among Adults 18-34 soared by 41 percent, and the show’s median age dropped by six years (46).  In addition, the premiere of “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” was #1 series on Nielsen Social Guide for the day ranked on Unique Audience among all non-sports programming. (Source: Nielsen Social Guide).

The second edition of the show scored even better, showing double-digit gains across the board vs. the premiere night telecast.  The second episode, which featured segments on Presidents Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin at the U.N. and the attempts of Hillary Clinton and Ben Carson to pander to the youth vote, increased its audience by +13% in total viewers (1.2 million), and its ratings by +20% with Adults 18-49, +21% with Adults 18-34 and +55% with Men 18-34. Versus the final quarter of “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” the September 29 episode of “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” saw ratings gains of +21% with Adults 18-49, +71% with Adults 18-34, and nearly doubled the Men 18-34 rating (+92%).

On the multiplatform front, Noah’s full-episode premiere (has already been streamed over 750K times and clips from the episode have recorded nearly 4 million views across platforms.  Socially, The Daily Show remained the #1 series in Late Fringe on Nielsen Social Guide ranked on Unique Audience among all programming.

The Daily Show with Trevor Noah airs Tuesday to Fridays in Africa on Comedy Central (DS channel 122) at 21.00 CAT.

Ayanda Allie-Paine SABC 2 brings a new talk show called VISIONARIES’ LOUNGE which starts on Tuesday, 13th October 2015 at 20h30. The talk show is presented by TV and radio personality turned businesswoman, AYANDA ALLIE-PAINE. Ayanda is mostly known as the anchor of SABC 2’s most popular breakfast show Morning Live.

VISIONARIES’ LOUNGE is an internally produced talk show which is a 26 x 24 minute talk-show. The series profiles self-made South Africans with noteworthy achievements, this to demonstrate the importance of internal-agency in the process of self-development. The achievers use their life stories to unpack the process of character development, self-belief, the importance of values and personal philosophies in building a successful life determined by one’s desires and dreams.  The series will feature guests across the racial lines and from different disciplines. The show will feature people like Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman , Pastor Musa Sono, and Mirriam Zwane just to name a few.

AYANDA ALLIE-PAINE is an accomplished media professional with a wealth of experience across various platforms including online media, print, radio and television. She is also a Radio Announcer and News Reporter / Presenter.

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Science and over eight years in the media industry, Ayanda is excelling in her current position of Producer and Presenter at SABC 2’s flagship breakfast show: Morning Live.

“VISIONARIES’ LOUNGE is shot in a relaxed studio environment where we get to know more about our guests on how they realized their dreams to be where they are today. The show is about African Legacies, it is not shallow or pretentious, but is sincere, informative, engaging and inspirational and will certainly resonate with our audiences. We talk to individuals who are deep rooted, inspired and are self-made who turn the impossible into possibilities” commented Lebo Malete – SABC 2 Publicist.

Visionaries’ Lounge is on SABC2, Tuesdays at 20h30.

SABC Education has teamed up with Tuluntulu and launched a new 24/7 TV app aimed at mobile phones and tablets across Africa.

“To remain competitive, it is imperative we share our television content with mobile users.  Africa is experiencing explosive growth in mobile penetration and usage.  A popular activity is to access videos on mobile devices. Our partnership with Tuluntulu, one of the fastest growing content apps in Africa is very important for learning” said Eric Muragana, web and new media manager at SABC Education.

 

“Tuluntulu is delighted to partner with SABC Education in this new venture. They bring quality content and huge experience in Education. We believe this new mobile channel will have a significant positive impact in Education across Africa” said Pierre van der Hoven Tuluntulu’s Founder and CEO.

The app can be downloaded for free from the Google Play and iOS App stores, usage is free (no subscriptions), 100% free on Wi-Fi, with data costs only if connected via a mobile network (low data setting consumes +-50MB / hour). The ‘FREE’ business model is designed to maximize audience reach and engagement. Since marketing commenced in August 2014, the Tuluntulu app has been downloaded over 222,000 times in 154 countries. The most popular being South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe.

The platform currently has 18 x 24/7 streaming TV channels; News (Al Jazeera, ANN7, Deutsche Welle, Voice of America), Education (SABC, BrainBoosters, Spark4U), Documentaries (Afridocs), Movies (Nolly4U), Series (AfrikTales), Sport (AfricaSport4U), Fashion (Fleur), Lifestyle (Africa4U), Children (SABC Children), Comedy (Good4U), Music (GUAP, Mafrik), and Religion (ELev8). Tuluntulu also has 11 streaming radio stations.

Tuluntulu has received a number of awards including a Technology Top 100 Innovation award, finalist in the MTN App of the Year Awards, and a Frost & Sullivan Customer Value Leadership Award. In addition, Tuluntulu was selected by Unilever Foundry 50 as one of the top 50 start-ups in the world.

Female Hip Hop Producer and DJ, Roxxi recently collaborated with Reason, Nadia Nakai and Yung Swiss on one of the hottest tracks of October 2015, “Like Whoo”.

Roxxi’s new track was featured for the first time on South African radio stations on the Fresh @ 5 radio show on 5FM on Thursday, 1 October 2015.  Since its debut it has been receiving some major attention.

#LikeWhoo has been creating a commotion on twitter and according to Trendsmap was trending last week.

“We would go into a description about the bars, the instrumental and who had the best verse, but with a song title like this, we wouldn’t be doing you justice if we didn’t let the curiosity eat you up until you listened to it yourself.” – HypeMagazine.co.za

The track was made available on Slikour’s website (www.slikouronlife.co.za) for free download last week and reached nearly 2000 downloads. To listen and download the track visit iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/za/artist/dj-roxxi/id364301773

The organizers of the 11th edition of the DISCOP AFRICA television industry gathering to be held at the SANDTON CONVENTION CENTER from 4 to 6 November, have unveiled MEET YOUR STARS, a sidebar event showcasing new series and marquee shows and to run parallel to the 3-day market and coproduction forum.

MEET YOUR STARS will enable media buyers, advertisers, brand managers and influential leaders in the industry to be the first to hear – in advance of South Africa’s next television season – all the information on new and returning hit-shows as well directly from talent attached to each of them.

MEET YOUR STARS is designed to help advertisers, brand managers and media buyers to:

• Learn more about next season’s television programs line up,

• Measure the potential level of engagement of TV viewers for each of these shows
• Optimize airtime purchase decisions
• Address questions directly to the stars of the shows

MEET YOUR STARS will feature the top talent from over thirty brand new programs and returning hits including popular TV series and soaps, reality, competition and talent shows and more.

Over three days over THIRTY pop shows and stars will be present. Just some of the major shows and stars attending  include:

Isidingo (SABC 3): Temanyana Sebopedi and Michaella Russell

Generations The Legacy (SABC 1):  Connie Ferguson, JT Medupi  and Rapulana Seiphemo

Hectic Nine-9: (SABC ) Laurian Nortjie, Ayanda Makuzeni, Samora Mangesi and Mbasa Fefe

Skeem Skaam (SABC 1):  Clement Maosa, Paulina Mothlatswi and Afrika Tswai

Muvhango (SABC 1): Gabriel Temudzani, Lesley Musina and Cindy Dlathu

eXpresso (SABC 3): Graeme Richards, Leigh-Anne Williams, Katlego Maboe, Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp

Afternoon Express (SABC 3): Bonang Matheba, Bonnie Mbuli, Jeannie D

7 de Laan (SABC 2):Annelisa Wylandt, Anneliza van der Ryst and Pierre van Pletzen

Top Billing (SABC 3): Lorna Maseko

Soul Foodie (SABC 3): J’Something

Showville: (SABC 3): Rob van Vuuren and Bontle Modiselle

Scandal (etv)

Rhythm City (etv): Hlubi Mboya, Dumisani Mbebe

Gold Diggers (etv)

Invited guests will be the first to hear about the prime-time schedules on all SABC and etv channels from the stars themselves. In fact, SABC 1, 2 and 3, as well as etv, Ebony Life, Star One and TMTv-SA are all confirmed partners for MEET YOUR STARS, and will be presenting their top returning shows as well as premiering a number of new, previously announced shows for 2016. This event therfore is not-to-be-missed for anyone responsible for media planning, sponsorship management, or brand development

MEET YOUR STARS will run parallel to the 11th edition of the DISCOP AFRICA television industry gathering to be held at the SANDTON CONVENTION CENTER from 4 to 6 November, an event exepcted to draw 1,500+ delegates and 250+ exhibitors from 90+ countries driving television content business and distribution across Africa.

“In today’s digital multichannel environment, MEET YOUR STARS will be an opportunity for strategic advertising industry influencers to learn a great deal more about next season’s television programs line-up,” says Patrick ZUCHOWICKI, General Manager of DISCOP AFRICA, and adds, “and for networks to prove to brands that their shows will engage viewers despite continued audience fragmentation.”

MEET YOUR STARS is a global concept that is new concept to South Africa, but already secured major support from a host of top brands. VW Motors, Uber, TMTv-SA and Pepsi have all come out strongly in support of the event as Anele Tshabalala, Pepsi Brand Manager explains, “Pepsi is thrilled to be partnering with ‘Meet Your Stars’ and be part of the festivities to introduce the exciting new content line-up planned for South African viewers in the New Year.  Event goers will have an opportunity to experience Pepsi’s deliciously refreshing beverage range while they partake in the event activities.’’

Qualified executives will be invited to participate in the MEET YOUR STARS program, free of charge, and also attend other DISCOP AFRICA highlights to include conferences, workshops, matchmaking sessions and numerous networking functions.

South African music legend RINGO MADLINGOZI once again will delight fans by taking over the Bassline stage, headlining the Kaya FM Presents Live @ The Bassline show on Friday November 6th.

Ringo has handpicked the phenomenal MBUSO KHOZA as his support act for what is guaranteed to be a sensational celebration of African pop.

With a career spanning three decades, Ringo has been on the forefront of Afro-pop in South Africa since the 1980’s.  With traditional Xhosa guitar, ‘ukuxhentsa’ rhythms from his youth and contemporary sounds, this unique style has become Ringo’s trademark and he was released over 10 albums – each one mre successful than the next.

Ringo is known to really come alive on stage.  An artist only reaches the multi-platinum status he has achieved through really being passionate about his craft and live on stage, Ringo is a sight to behold.

This multiple award winning performer will once again be rocking the Bassline stage like never before as part of the highly successful series Kaya FM Presents Live @ The Bassline.

A run of spectacular Live @ The Bassline shows has featured female stars Zonke, Thandiswa Mazwai, Zamajobe, Maleh, Berita and Thiwe.  Ringo will now be flying the flag for the men, as he is the first male artist to be selected for the series – and he has a more than able wingman for this show as Mbuso Khoza joins him as support act for the night.

The Eshowe-born Mbuso has a special relationship with Bassline.  As a young man finding his way into the tough South African music scene, Mbuso would often end up sleeping at the venue.  He went on to become a hot backing vocalist for an array of South African stars, all the while honing his craft as a singer and gifted songwriter.

No stranger to difficult times, Mbuso used his life experiences as a backdrop to his debut album ‘Zilindile’ which he actually launched at Bassline in 2012.  His rootsy, soulful music has a therapeutic message for those who have had their fair share of life’s challenges. The album is a delicate mix of deep traditional Zulu music infused with Jazz elements – showcasing the true depth of his artistic and diverse talent displayed without constraint.

Two male artists with colourful histories and rich messages in their music, make sure you get your tickets not to this unmissable show.

Tickets: R200.00 pre-sale at www.webtickets.co.za or R220.00 at the door.

Pan-African music and youth culture authority MTV Base (DStv channel 322) has been invited to become the first music TV channel on the continent to be a curator on Apple Music. Bringing African flava to the popular music platform, MTV Base joins an exclusive selection of international tastemakers and style leaders.

Starting October 2015, MTV Base will curate a range of themed playlists inspired by music that resonates on the continent today, giving music fans an exclusive MTV Base music experience, and allowing them to discover and stream music handpicked by Africa’s music authority.

The playlists will feature tracks by African and international artists across multiple genres including Hip Hop, R&B, pop, and more, spotlighting the giants of African contemporary music.

The MTV Base curated playlists will  provide recommendations for music fans, allowing them to sample and appreciate both new music and established artists.  All playlists will be updated weekly, with special themed playlists linked to must-see MTV Base TV events and programming such as #MTVDJBattle or the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA).

To get your regular music fix from MTV Base anywhere at any time on Apple Music, open the Apple Music app on your device, tap “NEW” and then click on the “CURATOR PLAYLIST” icon.  Search for MTV Base Africa, then click through to the page and enjoy the handcrafted playlists the channel has to offer.  Interact with MTV Base via Apple Music Connect to ‘like’ a playlist, or leave a comment.

Commented Tim Horwood, Head of MTV Base, “We are super excited to join Apple Music and to deliver a curated music experience for music lovers that will allow new and existing fans to discover and appreciate the incredible music that we at MTV Base get down to every day!”

To learn more about Apple Music and to enjoy a three month, free trial, please click here: Apple Music.

International R&B and soul artist, and GRAMMY Award winner singer, songwriter, musician and record producer, Raphael Saadiq joins fellow R&B sensation Maxwell on the lineup for the BET Experience Africa. Saadiq, appearing for the first time ever in Africa, will perform during the gala concert at the BET Experience Africa, a spectacular global celebration of urban culture, music and lifestyle, from entertainment channel BET (DStv channel 129).

The inaugural BET Experience Africa takes place at the Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg on Saturday 12 December 2015.  Further performers will be announced shortly.

Saadiq is a multi-talented musician with eleven GRAMMY nominations to his name plus a BET Award nomination and Soul Train Award.  Over the past two decades Saadiq, who also plays bass, mellotron, keys, guitar, percussion and drums, has worked behind the scenes as a celebrated producer, collaborator and sideman for big-time acts like John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dog, Whitney Houston and Elton John – to mention just a few. Fans of classic 80s and 90s R&B/soul will remember Saadiq as a founding member and lead vocalist of influential chart-toppers Tony! Toni! Toné!, responsible for hits like “Feels Good” and “It Never Rains in Southern California”.

Since Saadiq’s early days, he has always carried a torch for old school R&B.  In addition to releasing critically acclaimed solo albums like Ray Ray and Instant Village (nominated for five GRAMMYs), Saadiq has released an additional four albums since 1995, the most recent being the critically acclaimed Stone Rollin’.

BET Experience Africa provides the perfect kick off to the summer season, taking over the Ticketpro Dome for a non-stop, jam-packed entertainment fest, bringing together lovers of urban culture and music. Wowing visitors all day long, the BET Experience Africa will showcase great food, fashion, music, comedy, dance, sport and much, much more.

Inspiring, immersive and hugely entertaining, BET Experience Africa will feature stunning live performance on a central Sound Stage, while stand-up routines from comedy stars will keep the audience laughing. Watch top celebrities battle each other for sporting supremacy the fun-packed Celebrity Basketball Game. Fashionistas will revel in the Fashion & Beauty catwalk, while checking out the hottest trends on the Sneaker scene.  For inspiration, attend one of BET’s informative and instructive Genius Talks, curated by experts and opinion formers in various fields.

After a day of enthralling action and entertainment, it’s time to head to the BET Experience Concert featuring Maxwell, Raphael Saadiq and other international and African artists.

Book now to celebrate the many rich and varied faces of the urban lifestyle experience all under one roof. Tickets for the BET Experience Africa are on sale now at www.ticketpro.co.za.  Ticket prices (which include access to the sound stage and other lifestyle activities, plus the concert in the evening) range from R750 on the mezzanine level to R1150 (floor standing), R1250 (floor bleachers) and Golden Circle at R1500.

For more information on the BET Experience Africa, please visit www.betafrica.tv, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BETinAfrica or join the conversation about the channel on Twitter and Instagram @BET_Africa using the hashtag #BETXAfrica.

CNBC Africa – the pan-African financial and business news channel – will be syndicating its award-winning multimedia and video clips to Newstag, an innovative ‘mobile-first’ video news service. The multi-year deal grants Newstag the right to share and distribute CNBC’s news videos on its mobile and online platforms alongside current affairs and entertainment content from other professional content producers around the world, including AP, AFP and Reuters.

CNBCAfrica.com Chief Executive, Sid Wahi said: “Newstag is to professional video news what YouTube is to amateur video clips. They are the world’s largest online network based on videos only from trusted sources. CNBC Africa is the largest and most credible source of business content from around the continent with over 35,000 videos interviews and clips available through its digital publishing channels. This partnership will extend our current reach and enhance our digital ecosystem.”

Newstag’s ‘mobile-first’ service enables users to create their own ‘tagstream’ (or personalised TV channel) in seconds, organising, consuming and sharing stories among their social networks using the latest web and mobile technologies. These stories are available from a number of different perspectives, resulting in a platform that allows converging viewpoints to be presented side by side, shedding new light on international news as it breaks.

Newstag CEO, Henrik Eklund, says: “Newstag is committed to providing global news coverage from truly distinct perspectives and we’re delighted that CNBC Africa has partnered with us to offer our users a refreshing insight into African news through an African lens. It’s a dynamic time for Africa and in less than a decade CNBC Africa has built a solid international reputation for providing credible and impartial news, presenting an exciting picture of a continent in development from nuanced reporting on the ground. We hope that combining these strengths with Newstag’s innovative news model will amplify Africa’s voice, allowing it to reach a large international audience.”

Launched on 1 June 2007, CNBC Africa celebrates its 8th anniversary as Africa’s first and only real-time Pan Africa financial and business news network. Part of the global CNBC family, which reports around the clock from major financial centres worldwide, CNBC Africa covers business and financial markets news from across the continent, telling the story of Africa on the move.

Since the channel’s launch, CNBC Africa has been breaking ground across the African continent and amongst many successes and achievements, is the only pan-African television network to report live each day across Africa. The combined reach of CNBC Africa and its affiliated networks is 390 million viewers around the world. Its reach on the African continent has been growing by the day through its distribution partnership with MultiChoice.

CNBC Africa has grown beyond all expectations since it was launched eight years ago, and everyone on the CNBC Africa team is justifiably proud of the respected media brand that they have all helped to create. Through accurate and incisive reporting and analysis, and an attractive and dynamic programme schedule, CNBC Africa has clearly positioned itself as the premier African news and information resource for CEOs and senior corporate executives, financial houses, investors and aspirational viewers across the continent.

This announcement follows Newstag’s selection as a top international start-up by Mobile World Capital Barcelona in an international contest to recognise the most innovative use of mobile technology in business. In addition to this, Newstag has recently been nominated for ‘best international news site’ by WAN-IFRA alongside Business Week and Singapore Press Holdings.

Umhlobo Wenene FM‘s station manager Mr Phumzile Mnci announces a reshuffle within the station.

The station’s objective for this current fiscal is to grow its listenership to 5 million and currently the station has 4, 6 million listeners. “The reshuffle was then necessary to ensure that the station achieves this objective,” said Mr Phumzile Mnci.

Two of the station’s prime time shows, were affected by the reshuffle. The midday show Sij’ikilanga which is currently hosted by Amaza Ntshanga produced by Nonala Tose who is also a co presenter of the show. The other show with a reshuffle is the station’s afternoon drive hosted by the trio, Mthobeli August known as KCI, Luyanda “Luks” Gidane and Zizo Beda.

Luyanda “Luks” Gidane will now make a move to the midday show as a producer with immediate effect.  Luks who has a vast experience in the broadcast field as an on air personality also has a flair for producing and he will fit like hand and glove in the midday show. Luks has been with the station for the past 12 years. He has hosted some of the station’s popular shows .Some of the shows he hosted were Morning Glory, Party Time, Quiet Storm, Eziyolisayo and he was also a music compiler for the station.  Nonala Tose will now be a full time co -host of the show and since this show has been broadcasting live from Cape Town it will now move to Johannesburg to join the station’s afternoon drive Masigoduke, both shows will broadcast live from SABC Auckland Park, Monday to Friday weekly.

KCI will present the afternoon drive with co- host Zizo Beda. Both of them have enormous experience in the media field and they have millions of followers. Bongani Nqiqi will remain as the producer of the afternoon drive.

The station manager has urged the station’s listeners to continue supporting the station as they have always done so for the past 55 years. Umhlobo Wenene FM is committed to deliver on its mandate which is to educate, inform and entertain.

Tune into for the thrilling MTV DJ Battle on MTV (DStv channel 130) on 27 October at 21:00 CAT as sister channels MTV and MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) fight it out at the most talked about DJ Battle ever at Carfax in Newtown.

Three top DJs in each team, DJ Zinhle, DJ Tira and hip hop ace DJ Vigilante represent MTV Base while Tembisa’s very own DJ Shimza, DJ Khenzero and Afrotainment’s DJ C’ndo represent MTV in this 30 minute special that sees the DJs put to the test in three themed “DJ Battles”, with a few rounds of wild card challenges thrown into the mix.

Each battle calls upon one DJ from each team to out-battle the other to gain favour from the crowd. Tune in to find out which team wind the bragging rights as the #MTVDJBattle champions.

Who had the coolest set? Who failed to keep the crowd going? Who showed their diversity? Find out by tuning into music authority MTV Base (DStv channel 322) or MTV (DStv Channel 130) next Tuesday 27 October at 21:00 CAT.

Find out more at www.mtvbase.com or www.mtv.co.za.  To share your views on the #MTVDJBattle, please follow @MTVBaseAfrica or @MTVza on Twitter using the hashtag #MTVDJBattle.