Take That, the multi-award-winning and smash-hit makers, are set to ignite the stage at the SunBet Arena, Time Square on Sunday the 20th of October, and the Grand Arena, GrandWest on Tuesday the 22nd October 2024. This spectacular event is brought to you by Big Concerts, in association with 947 and KFM 94.5.
The Discovery Bank pre-sale kicks off at 09h00 on Wednesday, 28 February, exclusively at www.ticketmaster.co.za, and runs until 08h59 on Friday, 1 March. General ticket sales open at 09h00 on Friday, 1 March 2024, also exclusively through Ticketmaster.co.za.
Known for their epic productions and sensational live performances, Take That holds the record for the most shows at London’s The O2 with an impressive 34 headline performances. Their 2011 Progress tour made history by selling over 1 million tickets in less than 24 hours, becoming the UK's biggest tour and earning them a spot on Billboard's 'Top 25 Tours' list, ranking third worldwide. In 2019, the band celebrated their 30th anniversary with the 38-date sell-out Odyssey tour, captivating audiences in 29 arenas and 9 stadiums, selling over 650,000 tickets.
Despite being 30+ years into their career, Take That shows no signs of slowing down. Constantly evolving, the future looks promising for the trio.
The band's highly anticipated ninth studio album, This Life, is out now. This vibrant collection showcases Take That at their musical peak, with influences from Hall & Oates, Supertramp, Wings, Elton John, The Eagles, and Crosby, Stills and Nash. The album features beautiful melodies, soaring choruses, and sophisticated harmonies blending Gary, Mark, and Howard's voices seamlessly together.
Mark describes the album as having "a sense of togetherness," whether it's the band reuniting or people seeking connection in their own lives. This Life is a testament to Take That's evolution, maintaining their unique essence while progressing their sound.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
South Africa, January 25, 2024 - The much-anticipated Calabash South Africa is on the horizon, set to unfold at DHL Stadium, Cape Town, and FNB Stadium, Johannesburg. In an exhilarating announcement, Big Concerts has added South African sensation Shekhinah and The Groove Yard to the line-up, promising an unparalleled concert experience.
As the largest international summer concert, Calabash South Africa is gearing up to be a musical extravaganza, featuring chart-topping artists from around the world. Here's a glimpse of what concert-goers can expect:
The Groove Yard: A Sonic Wonderland[
Enter the vibrant world of Calabash SA, where the rhythm never falters, and the energy is infectious. The newly unveiled addition, The Groove Yard, offers an electrifying space pulsating with extraordinary talent. In Cape Town, immerse yourself in the musical prowess of Stashe, Dwson, Das Kapital, and Dean Fuel. Meanwhile, DJ Buhle, Abby Nurock, Roz, and Kyle Cassim will captivate Johannesburg, ensuring an unforgettable experience at Calabash South Africa.
Headliners Galore: A Musical Dream
Calabash South Africa is not just the summer's biggest concert; it's a haven for music lovers. Headlined by Grammy Award-winning pop-rock royalty Maroon 5, the event features performances by international sensations like Keane, Meduza, Ava Max, Will Linley, Shekinah, Lloyiso, Sunset Sweetshop, and Timo ODV in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Maroon 5's Chart-Topping Hits: An Unforgettable Night
With Adam Levine's enthralling vocals, Maroon 5 promises a night to remember with chart-topping hits like "Moves like Jagger," "Sugar," "Payphone," and "Girls Like You."
Keane's 20th Anniversary Celebration: A Pianistic Journey
British band Keane, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their acclaimed debut album "Hopes and Fears," will enchant the audience with piano-driven pop-rock hits like "Somewhere Only We Know" and "Everybody's Changing."
Meduza's Global Dominance: Setting the Standard
In just two years, Meduza has become the most significant global streaming Italian artist, setting the benchmark for dance music worldwide. Their debut release, "Piece of Your Heart," has amassed over 2 billion streams and secured a top 10 spot in charts in 20 countries.
Ava Max's Electrifying Performance: Pop Sensation
Chart-topping pop sensation Ava Max, known for electrifying performances and powerhouse vocals, is anticipated to set the stage ablaze with hits like "Sweet but Psycho" and "Kings & Queens."
Local Talent and Rising Stars: A Distinctive Flavor
South Africa-born Will Linley brings a unique touch to the line-up, combining raw emotion with saccharine melodies. Acclaimed South African musician Lloyiso will showcase his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, establishing himself as a rising star.
The Rise of Sunset Sweatshop: A South African Storm
Since the release of their debut single "Move It," Sunset Sweatshop has stormed the South African music industry. Following positive critical reception and multiple award nominations, the band's success has soared.
I Make Beats - Timo ODV: Global Recognition
Timo ODV, with 80 million streams globally and 6x Platinum/Multi-Platinum records, brings his beat-making prowess to the stage, promising an unforgettable performance.
Suited Star – Shekhinah: A Musical Force
Shekhinah's electrifying musical journey has left an indelible mark on the global stage. Collaborating with international icons and recognized on Forbes Africa's "30 under 30" list for creatives, Shekhinah stands poised on the brink of greater heights.
VIP Experiences and Beyond: A Sensory Extravaganza
Calabash South Africa offers a range of VIP experiences, ensuring a premium and comfortable concert experience. Beyond the music, the event promises LED frame girls, towering stilt walkers, mimes, mikishi performers, pantsula dancers, acrobats, jugglers, and roaming festival glitter artists, creating a sensory feast that captivates, entertains, and leaves lasting memories.
Presented by Big Concerts, in association with Discovery Bank, Heineken, M-Net, 947, and KFM, Calabash South Africa is not just a concert; it's an experience you won't soon forget.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit Calabash South Africa's official website or follow them on social media:
Facebook: Calabash South Africa
Instagram: Calabash South Africa
Twitter: Calabash SA Fest
TikTok: @calabashsouthafrica
Book your tickets now at Calabash South Africa or Ticketmaster.co.za. Avoid purchasing tickets from Viagogo, as these may be unlawfully resold at multiple times the face value.
About Calabash South Africa:
Calabash South Africa is the ultimate international summer concert, featuring a star-studded line-up of world-renowned artists. The festival promises an unforgettable experience, celebrating the power of music at the largest venues on the African continent. For more information, visit Calabash South Africa's official website.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Big Concerts, in a joint effort with Michael Bublé and his team, made a major announcement today regarding the highly-anticipated "Higher Tour." Originally set for 2024, the tour has been postponed, marking a difficult but thoughtful decision aimed at granting Michael a well-deserved break from his demanding tour schedule.
The captivating "Higher Tour" is now rescheduled to enthral South African audiences in 2025. This hiatus is not just a breather but a chance for Michael to invest precious moments with his family and reignite his creative spark, ensuring an unparalleled musical experience that South Africans have been eagerly anticipating.
We're committed to keeping South African fans in the loop throughout the upcoming year. Expect to be fully engaged and informed about all updates regarding the rescheduled tour. And the excitement peaks as we await the unveiling of the brand new 2025 tour dates, promising an unforgettable journey into the world of Michael Bublé's music.
Michael Bublé and Big Concerts extend heartfelt gratitude to their South African fans for their unwavering support and understanding. The anticipation for the "Higher Tour" in 2025 is brewing, and rest assured, it will absolutely be worth every moment of the wait. Get ready to join us as we anticipate an extraordinary musical odyssey with Michael Bublé. Stay tuned for more updates!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a triumphant revival reminiscent of a prodigal son's return, Dave Matthews Band shattered a ten-year hiatus in spectacular fashion at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria this past Sunday. While the band's performances in the Republic have been infrequent, their recent show proved worth the wait, leaving audiences spellbound with a musical extravaganza spanning over three electrifying hours.
Seemingly lured by the festive season and perhaps drawn by connections to friends and family, the band, known for their jam-packed performances, made up for lost time with an unrelenting display of their expansive sound. Their songs morphed into sonic journeys, traversing various musical landscapes within the same composition.
The concert unfolded with a vibrant explosion of rippling trumpet and saxophone solos from Rashawn Ross and Jeff Coffin, igniting a fervent rendition of "Fool in the Rain." This evolved into a progressive, jazz-rock symphony, marking merely the inception of the night's extended improvisations. Carter Beauford's dynamic drumming resonated crisply, intertwining seamlessly with Stefan Lessard's playful basslines, providing a stable foundation throughout the evening's performance.
Despite their monumental success globally, Dave Matthews Band has always divided audiences, harboring a devoted yet polarized fan base. Surprisingly, the concert witnessed a lower turnout, leaving the upper seating levels unoccupied—a stark contrast to their sold-out Dome concert, a decade ago.
However, the band's influence is undeniable. U2, Metallica and Dave Matthews Band are among the top-touring artists of the last 40 years. That is according to concert industry publication Pollstar, which tallied the best-selling and highest-grossing artists in its 40-year history, specifically between July 7, 1980, and July 1, 2022. U2 is number 1 on the list for most tickets sold, with a total of 26,178,043. DMB follows at number 2 with 23,279,056. The talent in the versatile seven-piece unit is impossible to deny and when they are in full swing, like they were on Sunday.
Although the band's amalgamation of genres, rooted in rock, funk, blues, and jazz, would seem more at home in vibrant locales like New Orleans, instead of Pretoria, they were well received. Their free-spirited, improvisational style received an additional boost with a cameo appearance by local legend Vusi Mahlasela, known as the Voice of South Africa, adding a spirited flair to their rendition of "Everyday."
While their setlist featured fan-favorites like "The Space Between," "Crush," "Ant Marching," and "So Much," notable omissions of chart-toppers like "Crash into Me" and " Dont Drink The Water" left some concert-goers disappointed. However, this exclusion revealed Matthews' evolution as an artist, his concerns now revolving around impermanence and liberation, reflected in the band's newer material, such as “ Madman’s Eyes”, a song about guns in his native USA.
Remarkably, the band's spontaneity shines through in their ever-changing nightly setlists, diverging from the conventional pre-production patterns. Embracing improvisation mere hours before the show, each performance becomes a unique experience, a testament to their artistry and dedication to providing fans with an unparalleled live encounter.
In collaboration with Big Concerts, Dave Matthews Band's triumphant return to South Africa was nothing short of a musical odyssey, a testament to their unwavering commitment to evolving their craft while delivering unforgettable live experiences to their fervent fanbase.
Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer ( Media Manager)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Big Concerts announced that the celebrated, multi-award-winning artist and Grammy nominee, James Blunt, will be gracing South African shores next year as part of his highly anticipated tour promoting his latest sensational album, "Who We Used To Be." Accompanied by his band, Blunt is set to captivate audiences at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on Thursday, 12 September, and at SunBet Arena, Time Square on Saturday, 14 September. This tour is presented in association with 947 and KFM 94.5.
The exclusive Discovery Bank pre-sale is scheduled to commence at 09h00 on Wednesday, 29 November, accessible via www.ticketmaster.co.za, and will continue until 08h59 on Friday, 1 December. General public ticket sales will officially open at 09h00 on Friday, 1 December 2023, exclusively through Ticketmaster.co.za.
Blunt's latest album, "Who We Used To Be," has already received accolades for its brilliance and infectious tunes. Expressing his excitement for the tour, James said, "I cannot find the words to say how excited I am to get back out on the road again on tour in 2024. My new album was incredibly fun to write and record, and some of the new songs will undoubtedly get you up on your feet and dancing again. I'm looking forward to crowd surfing at a venue near you!"
The album's debut single, the upbeat anthem 'Beside You,' accompanied by a captivating video directed by Craig Bingham, pays homage to James' past, depicting encounters with versions of himself throughout his life. As he embraces the personas of his former self, the video reflects his journey forward.
"Who We Used To Be" marks James Blunt's first studio album since the highly acclaimed top 3 charting album "Once Upon A Mind" in 2019. For this project, Blunt collaborated with various producers, including Jonny Coffer, Red Triangle, Jack & Coke, and Steve Robson. His recent compilation of greatest hits, "The Stars Beneath My Feet," achieved Gold status by selling over 100,000 copies.
For comprehensive tour and ticket details, visit www.bigconcerts.co.za.
James Blunt "Who We Used To Be" Tour Details:
Cape Town
Date: 12 September 2024
Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
Ticket Sales: Exclusively available from Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.co.za) starting at 09H00 on Friday, 1 December.
Pretoria
Date: 14 September 2024
Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria
Ticket Sales: Exclusively available from Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.co.za) starting at 09H00 on Friday, 1 December.
Prepare to immerse yourself in an unforgettable musical journey as James Blunt brings his enchanting melodies and chart-topping hits to South Africa in 2024!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Bryan Adams, the rock maestro whose music transcends generations, recently graced the stage at Pretoria's Sunbet Arena, ending the South African leg of his "So Happy It Hurts" tour. As a seasoned attendee of Bryan's performances, having relished the magic on four previous occasions, including the unforgettable acoustic "Bare Bones Tour," each concert has been etched in my memory, invoking the euphoria of days gone by.
My anticipation for his Sunbet Arena debut was palpable, driven by the prospect of reliving the intoxicating atmosphere of live rock music and the sheer joy of a crowd singing and clapping in unison, all under the spell of Bryan himself. Excitement fueled my attendance on not one, but three consecutive nights of the tour, a testament to the enduring allure of Adams's music.
The vibe for all three evenings was nothing short of feel-good fun. As the crowd gathered in the arena, a peculiar yet exhilarating trend unfolded – the front row was encouraged to stand, inspiring the rest of the arena to follow suit by occupying the aisles. This contrasted with the typical seated setup for rock concerts, a challenge given the diverse age groups present, spanning from 10-year-olds to an 80-year-old lady seated next to me.
The crowd dynamic played a crucial role in shaping the different concert experiences. While the first two nights were marked by exuberance, some attendees seemed determined to try and outshine the main act, resulting in a cacophony that occasionally drowned out Bryan Adams's voice. This included loud wolf whistles at every possible chance. The last evening, however, saw a more considerate audience, allowing concertgoers of all ages to savor decades of musical brilliance and Bryan Adams’ angelic voice.
Although the experience was vastly different on each occasion, the performance remained the same. As the lights dimmed, signaling Bryan's imminent arrival, the crowd erupted in wild enthusiasm. Dressed in matching black t-shirts, Bryan and his band embraced a contemporary setup with a large video screen, projecting a modern aesthetic while maintaining focus on the music. The setlist, spanning over four decades of hits and 75+ million album sales, seamlessly blended new tracks with classics, creating a party atmosphere that resonated throughout the arena.
Bryan's interaction with the crowd reached its peak as he invited revelers to dance along with his infectious rockabilly track, 'You Belong To Me.' The concert showcased newer material from his recent albums, but the crowd's collective energy peaked with mega-hits like "Summer of '69" and "Everything I Do." A stripped-back rendition of select numbers, including 'Here I Am' and 'When You're Gone,' allowed the arena to transform into a choir, echoing every lyric as if their lives depended on it.
The concert's crescendo was Bryan's nod to crowd requests, with the audience selecting perennial favorites like "Cloud Number Nine" and "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman." This interactive segment added a personal touch, making the crowd an integral part of the show. The finale, featuring two acoustic gems each evening, "Straight from The Heart" and "All For Love," provided a fitting conclusion to a concert that reminded us all why live music is unparalleled.
One of the reasons I decided to write a second review was that I failed to give credit to the whole band on the first evening. I do not think I am the only one and a highlight often overlooked is the musical genius of the band, especially guitarist Keith Scott. Scott's virtuosity added an electrifying dimension to the performances, showcasing his prowess as one of the most underrated guitarists in the industry. The band's unwavering energy across the two-hour-plus set demonstrated their professionalism and commitment to delivering a top-class show night after night.
However, the tour wasn't without controversy, a topic discussed in the first review as well. The management's decision to restrict photos and videos in the front rows stirred unhappiness among attendees. While this decision had its positives, such as unobstructed views, it deprived those with prime tickets of capturing memories. The additional peculiarity of copyright strikes for concert videos uploaded to YouTube added to the mystery surrounding this policy. Whilst we could not confirm the reasons for the decision, it was great to be able to see Bryan Adams without looking through thousands of cellphone screens.
Despite these quirks, each evening concluded with the entire arena on its feet, arms in the air, and everyone dancing, delivering the quintessential elements of a great night out. Big Concerts once again ensured a high-quality experience with impeccable sound, organization, and management. I want to thank them for the invitation to review the first evening and will always do so in an unbiased manner.
As Bryan bids adieu to South African shores, one can't help but ponder when he'll return. The thought that we may have to wait until his 70s is crazy, but one thing is certain – when Bryan Adams does return, he'll undoubtedly “go down rocking”, ensuring that the magic of his music continues to resonate across generations.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
From the inaugural chords to the final notes, Bryan Adams once again asserted his status as a bona fide rock icon during the recent leg of his So Happy It Hurts Tour in Pretoria. The musical maestro, having kicked off the South African segment of his tour in Cape Town, graced the Sunbet Arena with three sensational shows. Despite Adams, 64, forgetting his prior appearance at the venue, the electrifying performances served as a reminder that some things only get better with time.
The atmosphere in the arena was charged with anticipation, intensified by Adams's strategic use of pre-show video clips and a spectacular display featuring a convertible flying car that circled the venue. At a Bryan Adams concert, one can expect a two-hour extravaganza of pure rock and classic ballads. The journey began with the lively "Kick Ass" from his latest album, setting the tone for an evening brimming with nostalgia and powerhouse performances.
Presenting approximately 30 songs, Adams masterfully intertwined his latest compositions with timeless classics. The audience was treated to an array of hits, including "When You Love Someone," "18 'Til I Die," "Somebody," and the iconic "Summer of '69." Introducing an acoustic touch to tracks like "Here I Am" and "Straight from the Heart," Adams created intimate moments within the expansive arena.
As Adams engaged with the audience, sharing anecdotes about his 95-year-old mother and reflecting on his early struggles as an 18-year-old aspiring songwriter, the connection deepened. A unique interactive element emerged as the crowd influenced the setlist, suggesting and enjoying fan favorites like "Don't Drop that Bomb on Me" and "Cloud Number Nine."
Despite the passing years, Adams's performance remained nothing short of remarkable. The enduring energy, passion, and distinctive voice that have characterized his career for nearly four decades were on full display. With a musical legacy spanning generations, Adams undeniably solidified his place in rock history.
However, amidst the musical enchantment, a surprising twist emerged – management restrictions on photos and videos in the front rows. Some attendees expressed disappointment, feeling hindered in capturing their cherished moments. The decision raised speculation on the management's motives in an era dominated by social media. Kaitlin Morland, a disappointed concertgoer, remarked, "It was very disappointing that management came and pushed down our phones every time we wanted to take a video or a photo. We paid a lot of money for front row tickets, and this was never stipulated to us."
Other concertgoers echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the departure of photographers after a single song and noting the grainy quality of the video on the backscreen. Some speculated that the management's decision may be an attempt to preserve the image of the aging rockstar.
Despite this minor disruption, fans departed the arena buzzing with admiration for Adams's timeless talent and the unforgettable performance. Bryan Adams continues to assert himself as a musical force, a living legend whose influence spans across generations. As the So Happy It Hurts Tour journeys forward, audiences worldwide can anticipate nothing less than an electrifying night of rock and nostalgia from this iconic performer.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
South Africa – October 25, 2023 - Prepare to be swept away by the grand symphony of sounds because Big Concerts has just unveiled South Africa's ultimate international music festival – Calabash South Africa! Get ready to witness the world's top artists like never before on the grandest stages of them all: DHL Stadium in Cape Town and FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. In early 2024, this flagship festival will be set ablaze by none other than the chart-topping Grammy Award-winning pop-rock legends, Maroon 5. But that's just the beginning; the lineup boasts other musical luminaries including Keane, Meduza, Ava Max, Will Linley, and Lloyiso.
With the electrifying and distinctive vocals of Adam Levine, Maroon 5 has graced the airwaves with chart-topping hits that include "Moves like Jagger," "Sugar," "Payphone," and "Girls Like You." Honored with three prestigious Grammy Awards, this band has garnered an unwavering global fan base.
Hailing from Battle, East Sussex, the British sensation, Keane, known for their piano-driven pop-rock sound, will add their magic to the festival. Gaining recognition in the early 2000s with their debut album "Hopes and Fears," Keane will mark the 20th anniversary of this iconic release in 2024, featuring hit singles like "Somewhere Only We Know" and "Everybody's Changing." Despite a hiatus post their 2013 album "The Best of Keane," their introspective lyrics and captivating melodies continue to resonate in the world of music.
In just two short years, Meduza has ascended to become the most significant global streaming Italian artist in the history of Italy's music. Their debut release, "Piece of Your Heart" featuring Goodboys, has amassed over 2 billion streams worldwide and secured a place in the top 10 of official charts in 20 countries. Meduza continues to set the benchmark for dance music globally.
Ava Max, the chart-topping pop sensation, promises to set the stage on fire at Calabash South Africa. Known for her electric performances and powerhouse vocals, Ava Max has enthralled audiences worldwide with her infectious energy and dynamic stage presence. With hits like "Sweet but Psycho" and "Kings & Queens," she has cemented her position as a global pop icon, and her performance at Calabash is expected to be nothing short of spectacular.
The lineup also features South Africa-born singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Will Linley, who weaves raw emotion with melodic sweetness, lamenting the woes of heartbreak with unforgettable hooks delivered with unfiltered candor.
And last but by no means least, Lloyiso, the acclaimed South African musician and SAMA nominee, who has firmly established himself as a rising star within the country's vibrant music scene. With his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Lloyiso has captivated audiences worldwide, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Pushing boundaries and redefining the possibilities of his craft, Lloyiso has solidified his position as a true musical force, dedicated to both artistic integrity and creative innovation.
Big Concerts CEO Justin Van Wyk exclaimed, “Calabash South Africa is the international music festival we've all been yearning for! Featuring the world's biggest artists, cutting-edge production, and commanding the largest venues on the African continent, it's a culmination of years of planning and a celebration of the sheer power of music. This festival is poised to expand into multiple days and stages in the future, promising an unforgettable experience."
Calabash South Africa is proudly presented by Big Concerts, in collaboration with Discovery Bank and Heineken. Whether you're craving the VIP treatment, a cozy hospitality retreat, or something in between, this festival has you covered for an experience that will linger in your memories.
Discovery VIP Experience:
Premier in-house Platinum seating near the stage.
Dedicated fast-track entrance.
Exclusive check-in and on-site VIP event staff.
Access to VIP bars with complimentary beers, ciders, and soft drinks.
Business Lounge (Cape Town):
Premium seated ticket in the Business Lounge on the 4th level of the western side of the stadium.
Private bar and ablution facilities.
Complimentary light snacks and 4x drinks tokens (beers, ciders, soft drinks).
Wine and spirits available for purchase.
Stadium Management Lounge (Johannesburg):
Prime Position Viewing Lounge Ticket.
Buffet Meals.
Premium Bar.
Parking 1:4.
Fully staffed facility.
For the most up-to-date information on the tour and tickets, as well as the latest news, visit www.calabashsouthafrica.co.za or follow Calabash South Africa on social media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CalabashSouthAfrica
Instagram: www.instagram.com/calabashsouthafrica
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CalabashSA_Fest
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@calabashsouthafrica
Tickets will be available starting at 9 AM on Friday, November 3, 2023, at www.calabashsouthafrica.co.za or Ticketmaster.co.za.
The Discovery Bank pre-sale will kick off at 09h00 on Wednesday, November 1, on Ticketmaster.co.za and will run until 08h59 on Friday, November 3. Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 09h00 on Friday, November 3, 2023, from www.calabashsouthafrica.co.za or Ticketmaster.co.za. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Cape Town, South Africa — The countdown has begun, and the excitement is building as South Africa's premier media and entertainment event, FAME Week Africa, draws closer. From September 4th to 6th, this extravaganza is set to celebrate the transformative power of music, television, and film in Africa. It's a gathering where creativity flourishes, dreams become reality, and cultural unity shines.
Under the overarching theme of storytelling and creative expression, FAME Week Africa is poised to redefine narratives and empower generations. It's a clarion call to experience the enchantment that these mediums can unleash.
Adire – A Nollywood Premiere
The spotlight is firmly on FilmOne Studios, Nigeria's cinematic powerhouse, as they make a resounding statement at MIP Africa. They present an exclusive screening of "Adire," a groundbreaking Nollywood masterpiece and FilmOne's inaugural original production. Prepare to be captivated on Sunday, September 3, 2023, in Cape Town.
Producers Networking Cocktail Party
The Netflix Producers' Cocktail Party adds a touch of sophistication to networking. This exclusive event offers industry peers and executives a chance to connect, mingle, and gain invaluable insights into the latest industry trends and strategies.
Primedia Studios
Primedia Studios, renowned for hits like 'The Masked Singer SA' and 'Deal or No Deal SA' on SABC, eagerly anticipates its engagement with the creative industry at MIP Africa. It's the breeding ground for imaginative, groundbreaking content across diverse genres.
Jan Du Plessis, the voice of Primedia Studios, is thrilled about the event. He emphasizes the studio's commitment to nurturing fresh, unique, and intriguing content ideas. Their goal is to provide a platform for emerging creative talent and collaborate with inclusive production companies to create content that resonates with diverse audiences.
Creative Leader's Networking - An Exclusive BBC Event
Recognizing the profound influence of the creative and cultural sectors on society and the economy, FAME Week Africa introduces the Creative Leaders' Networking Function. It's a unique opportunity for industry leaders to connect, learn from the best, and create meaningful experiences that fuel innovation and growth.
Spinners Screening - A Showmax Original
The African film industry takes center stage with the premiere of "Spinners" on Monday, September 4, 2023, at MIP Africa. This eight-part drama series promises riveting entertainment for Sub-Saharan Africa on Showmax and CANAL+.
Women in Entertainment Breakfast - Powered by CTICC and presented by EarCandy
The Women in Entertainment Breakfast stands as a highlight in the FAME Week Africa calendar. It's a platform for women to empower one another, share experiences, and address gender disparities prevalent in the industry. Attendees can network, learn, and gain insights from keynote speakers.
The FAMEeous Party at Cabo Beach Club
The FAME After Dark experience is a must-attend event, celebrating African achievements and aspirations inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu: "I am because we are." It fosters inspiring conversations, forges connections, and fuels career growth for creatives across Africa and beyond, all set against the backdrop of live music performances under the African sky.
Un-matched, Un-masked, Un-missable: Content Sessions
MIP Africa offers unparalleled opportunities for content creators, producers, buyers, and sellers. It facilitates pre-scheduled, one-to-one matchmaking that can lead to life-changing opportunities. With over 160 compelling content sessions and networking events, it's a dream come true for creative professionals.
Project Pitches: Take Aim...
Project Pitches at MIP Africa 2023 provide the chance to present projects to industry professionals who have the power to green-light ideas. With the right support, these visions could reach millions of viewers worldwide, opening doors to new opportunities and relationships.
FAME Shorts Film Festival at The Labia Theatre
Discover the best of independent African cinema at the FAME Shorts Film Festival. This event showcases thought-provoking films from innovative independent filmmakers across the continent. With categories judged by industry experts, it's a platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their work and engage with industry professionals.
Vogue Nights Cape Town – District 6
Step into the vibrant world of voguing at Vogue Nights, celebrating a dance style and culture that originated in New York City's ballroom era in the 1980s. Voguing, with its intricate movements and fashion-inspired poses, offers a safe space for LGBTQ+ communities, challenging societal norms and fostering self-expression.
The Mixtresses – The Studio at Rockefeller Hotel
Part of Muziki Africa, the Mixtresses event celebrates gender diversity in the music industry, shattering stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. Female DJs, often underrepresented, have a platform to showcase their skills and inspire future generations.
Martin Hiller, the visionary Event Director for Fame Week Africa, declares that the event is a game-changer for African and global creative professionals. With a myriad of content sessions and networking opportunities, it's where dreams can become reality.
FAME Week Africa promises to be an event like no other, showcasing the immense talent and innovation thriving across the continent. Get ready to be inspired, connect with industry leaders, and witness the magic of creativity. Tickets start at R750 for all three days. Join us from September 4th to 6th, 2023, at CTICC 2, Cape Town. Visit www.ctiaf.com for more details. It's time to celebrate Africa's creative brilliance!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
If you surrendered your senses to the sonic voyage on Friday night, you'd be forgiven for believing you'd stepped back into the glorious heyday of 1995, when Live's haunting anthem "Lightning Crashes" reigned supreme over the airwaves of modern-rock radio.
A metamorphosed incarnation of Live, aided by their compatriots in rock, Fuel, unleashed an electrifying spectacle at Stage AE in Pittsburgh last Friday. In this reincarnation, only the indomitable frontman Ed Kowalczyk remained to steer the ship through the ethereal tides.
But let it be known, neither Kowalczyk nor his ensemble allowed their ensemble's evolution to hinder them. With unabated fervor, they embarked on a rapturous journey through Live's trove of greatest hits, a treasure chest laden particularly with the riches of their 1994 magnum opus "Throwing Copper," an album that had singlehandedly sold a staggering 8 million copies in the U.S. alone.
Draped in an ensemble that merged white denim with a rugged jacket, a noir T-shirt, and shades, Kowalczyk ignited the night with "Hold Me Up," a gem that saw its official release only as recent as the 2019 reissue commemorating "Throwing Copper's" 25th anniversary.
The temporal playlist was stitched seamlessly from this point, with Live electing not to venture beyond 2001's resounding "Overcome," which had ascended to anthem status post the tragic September 11, 2001 events. Remarkably, Kowalczyk's vocal prowess hadn't surrendered to the sands of time. His instrument resonated with ageless power, scaling the heights in anthems like "Pillar of Davidson" and the enigmatic "Lakini’s Juice."
The journey's early highlights glowed like constellations in the night sky — the jaunty cadence of "Pain Lies on the Riverside," the dynamic vivacity of "S**t Towne," and the delicate embrace of "Turn My Head."
After an exuberant rendition of "White, Discussion," an animated Kowalczyk bounded across the stage, crafting a fleeting encore intermission before unleashing four more sonic marvels, culminating in a robust "Lakini’s Juice" and the ever-present "Overcome."
Then came the zenith of the night: "I Alone," arguably Live's second most cherished creation, paved the way for their ubiquitous anthem "Lightning Crashes." The song's crescendo, a soaring summit of collective voices, resonated as the fitting finale, a splendidly nostalgic chorus, echoing the past — just as it did nearly three decades prior.
The 52-year-old maestro reclaimed the reins of the ensemble in June 2022, steering the ship alone after severing ties with the original trio — guitarist Chad Taylor, bassist Patrick Dahlheimer, and drummer Chad Gracey. Their shared history had spanned since 1984 in York, marked by both creative synergy and tempestuous clashes, a saga extensively detailed in Rolling Stone's exposé. Kowalczyk himself had parted ways acrimoniously in 2009, spawning lawsuits, only to stage a triumphant comeback in 2016.
In the present day, the ensemble orbits around Kowalczyk, supported on tour by guitarist Zak Loy, drummer Robin Diaz, and bassist Chris Heerlein (with a temporary substitute on Friday).
Fuel, the harbinger of the night's blaze, bears its own legacy of turbulence and triumph, underscored by their radio conquests. Lead vocalist Brett Scallions, who first departed in 2006 and resurfaced in 2010, helmed the ensemble until 2020, when he bid adieu again. Founding songwriter/guitarist Carl Bell and veteran drummer Kevin Miller resurrected the ensemble in a new avatar, in tandem with singer/guitarist Aaron Scott (a Season 19 contestant on "The Voice"), guitarist Mark Klotz, and bassist Tommy Nat.
Scott emerged as a natural frontman, seamlessly channeling the ensemble's essence. The night witnessed a more potent musical ferocity from Fuel, Bell's guitar solos bursting forth in fiery radiance. The set concluded with a crescendo, the sonic eruption of "Hemorrhage (In My Hands)," their crowning triumph from the year 2000.
As the night unfolded, Stage AE bore witness to more than a concert; it was an odyssey, a time machine set to the rhythm of nostalgia, woven by Live and Fuel. The echoes of their shared past reverberated across generations, a testament to the enduring power of music that defies the eras.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]