PRESS RELEASES
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Alicia Keys
What does it mean to be the proprietor of your destiny? If you're a singer, songwriter, pianist extraordinaire, producer, author, news correspondent, award winner, philanthropist and actress like Alicia Keys, it's probably perceived as affluence. For Keys, prosperity isn't measured monetarily but through passion, self-fulfillment and life experiences. It's this philosophy that has made the songstress a master of endless promise and impressive achievements.
full bio (PDF)
What does it mean to be the proprietor of your destiny? If you're a singer, songwriter, pianist extraordinaire, producer, author, news correspondent, award winner, philanthropist and actress like Alicia Keys, it's probably perceived as affluence. For Keys, prosperity isn't measured monetarily but through passion, self-fulfillment and life experiences. It's this philosophy that has made the songstress a master of endless promise and impressive achievements.
full bio (PDF)
Angelique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo digs into her roots with her new Razor & Tie release, OYO. Roots that reach far beyond her West African homeland of Benin, because Grammy Award winning singer, dancer and songwriter Kidjo is a definitive 21st century world artist. Her art roves across boundaries, genres and ethnicities, finding the connections that link musical forms from every part of the world, while still bonding closely with her own traditions.
full bio (PDF)
Angelique Kidjo digs into her roots with her new Razor & Tie release, OYO. Roots that reach far beyond her West African homeland of Benin, because Grammy Award winning singer, dancer and songwriter Kidjo is a definitive 21st century world artist. Her art roves across boundaries, genres and ethnicities, finding the connections that link musical forms from every part of the world, while still bonding closely with her own traditions.
full bio (PDF)
Amadou & Mariam
Welcome to the world of Amadou & Mariam, a sphere that now stretches from the dusty streets of Bamako to touring America with Coldplay and from the timeless traditions of Mali to the main stage at Glastonbury. Over the last few years big-selling albums such as ''Welcome to Mali'' and ''Dimanche à Bamako'' have taken Amadou and Mariam on an epic journey that has made the couple the best-selling - and best-loved - act to come out of Africa this century.
full bio (PDF)
Welcome to the world of Amadou & Mariam, a sphere that now stretches from the dusty streets of Bamako to touring America with Coldplay and from the timeless traditions of Mali to the main stage at Glastonbury. Over the last few years big-selling albums such as ''Welcome to Mali'' and ''Dimanche à Bamako'' have taken Amadou and Mariam on an epic journey that has made the couple the best-selling - and best-loved - act to come out of Africa this century.
full bio (PDF)
The Black Eyed Peas
They are the best selling hip-hop group in music today, having sold over 26 million albums worldwide. In fact, they are one of the planet's most popular artists, and have toured more countries than any other artist. will.i.am is not only the group's lead MC and its creative engine, but also a fashion designer, actor, social activist and an incredibly sought-after producer who has worked with everyone from U2 to Nas to Flo Rida.
full bio (PDF)
They are the best selling hip-hop group in music today, having sold over 26 million albums worldwide. In fact, they are one of the planet's most popular artists, and have toured more countries than any other artist. will.i.am is not only the group's lead MC and its creative engine, but also a fashion designer, actor, social activist and an incredibly sought-after producer who has worked with everyone from U2 to Nas to Flo Rida.
full bio (PDF)
BLK JKS
Just a short time ago -- in a last ditch effort to supply a borrowed van with wheels to make a club gig -- the four members of BLK JKS took turns hand-over-hand pushing a tire through the darkened, kinetic streets of Johannesburg, South Africa's Soweto township. For bandmates Lindani Buthelezi, Mpumi Mcata, Molefi Makananise and Tshepang Ramoba it's a simple and tough philosophy: every gig, everything at stake. full bio (PDF)
Just a short time ago -- in a last ditch effort to supply a borrowed van with wheels to make a club gig -- the four members of BLK JKS took turns hand-over-hand pushing a tire through the darkened, kinetic streets of Johannesburg, South Africa's Soweto township. For bandmates Lindani Buthelezi, Mpumi Mcata, Molefi Makananise and Tshepang Ramoba it's a simple and tough philosophy: every gig, everything at stake. full bio (PDF)
Hugh Masekela
John Legend
John Legend is a six-time Grammy winning recording artist, a critically-acclaimed concert performer, and a well-spoken social activist named to the 2009 Time 100 list of the world's most influential people. The artist launched his career as a session player and vocalist, contributing to best-selling recordings by Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Kanye West and others before recording his own unbroken chain of Top 10 albums.
full bio (PDF)
John Legend is a six-time Grammy winning recording artist, a critically-acclaimed concert performer, and a well-spoken social activist named to the 2009 Time 100 list of the world's most influential people. The artist launched his career as a session player and vocalist, contributing to best-selling recordings by Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Kanye West and others before recording his own unbroken chain of Top 10 albums.
full bio (PDF)
Juanes
In both critical respect and global commercial success, Juanes has become the leading all-Spanish language music artist in the world. Both an electrifying guitarist and gifted songwriter, Juanes is now often mentioned alongside artists such as Bono and Bruce Springsteen for his belief in the possibility of social change through music. Juanes' musical message of peace confronts conflict while pointing toward love and respect for both those closest to us, and our fellow global citizens as the way to rise above the fray.
full bio (PDF)
In both critical respect and global commercial success, Juanes has become the leading all-Spanish language music artist in the world. Both an electrifying guitarist and gifted songwriter, Juanes is now often mentioned alongside artists such as Bono and Bruce Springsteen for his belief in the possibility of social change through music. Juanes' musical message of peace confronts conflict while pointing toward love and respect for both those closest to us, and our fellow global citizens as the way to rise above the fray.
full bio (PDF)
K'NAAN
K'NAAN made a powerful mark on the music world with his breakthrough debut and now with his sophomore album, Troubadour, via A&M/Octone Records. He was instantly declared an "Artist to Watch" by Rolling Stone, NPR, The Los Angeles Times and MTV. With his eloquent and thought-provoking lyrics in the tradition of great folk singers and protest songs, K'NAAN has carved a new path that widens the traditional hip-hop and global music perspective.
full bio (PDF)
K'NAAN made a powerful mark on the music world with his breakthrough debut and now with his sophomore album, Troubadour, via A&M/Octone Records. He was instantly declared an "Artist to Watch" by Rolling Stone, NPR, The Los Angeles Times and MTV. With his eloquent and thought-provoking lyrics in the tradition of great folk singers and protest songs, K'NAAN has carved a new path that widens the traditional hip-hop and global music perspective.
full bio (PDF)
Mzansi Youth Choir
The Mzansi Youth Choir was established in July 2003 with the aim of affording talented, underprivileged teenagers the opportunity to proficiently perform locally and abroad. The choir consists of 45 enthusiastic young choristers who hail from Soweto, south west of Johannesburg. The word Mzansi means south in isiZulu and is also the township slang word for South Africa.
full bio (PDF)
The Mzansi Youth Choir was established in July 2003 with the aim of affording talented, underprivileged teenagers the opportunity to proficiently perform locally and abroad. The choir consists of 45 enthusiastic young choristers who hail from Soweto, south west of Johannesburg. The word Mzansi means south in isiZulu and is also the township slang word for South Africa.
full bio (PDF)
Shakira
Soweto Gospel Choir
Two-time GRAMMY Award winners and internationally acclaimed world music sensation, Soweto Gospel Choir celebrates the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music through their cornucopia of rich voices. This magnificent multi-award winning 52 strong Choir, styled with a contemporary feel, leaves all who hear it stunned with emotion. Wherever Soweto Gospel Choir has performed, be it at home in South Africa or Europe, Singapore, Australia, the UK and the USA, the Choir has dazzled audiences and received critical acclaim.
Created in late 2002, the Choir has achieved an almost unbelievable array of accomplishments: the first South African group to perform at the Academy Awards; two #1 Billboard World Music Chart albums, collaborations with Peter Gabriel, Bono, Josh Groban, Celine Dion, Akon and most recently with U2 as part of ESPN's unprecedented coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Support from such prominent and revered figures such Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the high praise for its music has garnered widespread attention for its work on behalf of its own charitable initiative Nkosi's Haven/Vukani which has raised millions for families affected by the AIDS epidemic. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world.
full bio (PDF)
Two-time GRAMMY Award winners and internationally acclaimed world music sensation, Soweto Gospel Choir celebrates the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music through their cornucopia of rich voices. This magnificent multi-award winning 52 strong Choir, styled with a contemporary feel, leaves all who hear it stunned with emotion. Wherever Soweto Gospel Choir has performed, be it at home in South Africa or Europe, Singapore, Australia, the UK and the USA, the Choir has dazzled audiences and received critical acclaim.
Created in late 2002, the Choir has achieved an almost unbelievable array of accomplishments: the first South African group to perform at the Academy Awards; two #1 Billboard World Music Chart albums, collaborations with Peter Gabriel, Bono, Josh Groban, Celine Dion, Akon and most recently with U2 as part of ESPN's unprecedented coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Support from such prominent and revered figures such Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the high praise for its music has garnered widespread attention for its work on behalf of its own charitable initiative Nkosi's Haven/Vukani which has raised millions for families affected by the AIDS epidemic. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world.
full bio (PDF)
The Parlotones
The Parlotones are known for their electric, polished stage performances delivered against the backdrop of their deftly crafted and darkly romantic lyrics. Their sound, described as alternative in their formative years and influenced by the likes of Muse, Radiohead and the Smiths, has evolved substantially becoming more refined and focused with each album.
full bio (PDF)
The Parlotones are known for their electric, polished stage performances delivered against the backdrop of their deftly crafted and darkly romantic lyrics. Their sound, described as alternative in their formative years and influenced by the likes of Muse, Radiohead and the Smiths, has evolved substantially becoming more refined and focused with each album.
full bio (PDF)
Tinariwen
How do you compress a thirty-year epic into a few pages? Tinariwen, whose back-story has variously been described as "the most compelling of any band" (Songlines), "the most rock'n'roll of them all" (The Irish Times), "hard-bitten" (Slate.com) and "dramatic" (The Independent), are both a dream and a nightmare for any aspiring music writer: a dream because the most superficial 'headlines' of their tale - rebellion, guns and guitars, desert nomads, Ghadaffi, the real Saharan blues - are like easy nuggets of gold to thrill-seeking journalists and literary prospectors.
full bio (PDF)
How do you compress a thirty-year epic into a few pages? Tinariwen, whose back-story has variously been described as "the most compelling of any band" (Songlines), "the most rock'n'roll of them all" (The Irish Times), "hard-bitten" (Slate.com) and "dramatic" (The Independent), are both a dream and a nightmare for any aspiring music writer: a dream because the most superficial 'headlines' of their tale - rebellion, guns and guitars, desert nomads, Ghadaffi, the real Saharan blues - are like easy nuggets of gold to thrill-seeking journalists and literary prospectors.
full bio (PDF)
Vieux Farka Touré
Fondo, Vieux Farka Tourés newest effort and his Six Degrees debut, is more than a stirring mix of traditional instruments and modern production. More than a world music artist embracing the sounds of rock, it is the sound of a young man coming into his own. His self-titled debut, released in 2006, seemed to be the passing of a torch, as it included the last recordings by his legendary father, Ali Farka Touré and a healthy dose of traditional Malian songs from his father's repertoire. But his new album has only one traditional song; everything else was written by Vieux himself.
full bio (PDF)
Fondo, Vieux Farka Tourés newest effort and his Six Degrees debut, is more than a stirring mix of traditional instruments and modern production. More than a world music artist embracing the sounds of rock, it is the sound of a young man coming into his own. His self-titled debut, released in 2006, seemed to be the passing of a torch, as it included the last recordings by his legendary father, Ali Farka Touré and a healthy dose of traditional Malian songs from his father's repertoire. But his new album has only one traditional song; everything else was written by Vieux himself.
full bio (PDF)
Vusi Mahlasela
Vusi Mahlasela, is simply known as "The Voice" in his home-country, South Africa, celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics. His songs of hope connect Apartheid-scarred South Africa with its promise for a better future. Raised in the Mamelodi Township, where he still resides, Vusi became a singer-songwriter and poet-activist at an early age teaching himself how to play guitar and later joining the Congress of South African Writers.
full bio (PDF)
Vusi Mahlasela, is simply known as "The Voice" in his home-country, South Africa, celebrated for his distinct, powerful voice and his poetic, optimistic lyrics. His songs of hope connect Apartheid-scarred South Africa with its promise for a better future. Raised in the Mamelodi Township, where he still resides, Vusi became a singer-songwriter and poet-activist at an early age teaching himself how to play guitar and later joining the Congress of South African Writers.
full bio (PDF)
Lira
In a global music world brimming with solo female performers, Lira stands out as that rare thing: an artist who has been able to create a formidable career without compromising the very values that feed her creative soul.
This may not sound like much but cast around the current charts and it becomes clear that Lira's ability to retain a deep sense of integrity whilst selling platinum and raking in the awards is not commonplace.
For this 30-year-old, it's a no brainer. "If something doesn't resonate with me, I won't do it," she says simply. "I have to really connect with the words that I am singing or the statements I am making or the clothes that I am wearing - or else I'd rather not be in this."
full bio (PDF)
In a global music world brimming with solo female performers, Lira stands out as that rare thing: an artist who has been able to create a formidable career without compromising the very values that feed her creative soul.
This may not sound like much but cast around the current charts and it becomes clear that Lira's ability to retain a deep sense of integrity whilst selling platinum and raking in the awards is not commonplace.
For this 30-year-old, it's a no brainer. "If something doesn't resonate with me, I won't do it," she says simply. "I have to really connect with the words that I am singing or the statements I am making or the clothes that I am wearing - or else I'd rather not be in this."
full bio (PDF)
Goldfish
It's been another unprecedented year for Goldfish. Two boys from Cape Town whose genredefying mix of jazzy house beats and searing live performances has seen them launch head first into the worldwide Dance Music consciousness. Almost hard to believe that not so long ago they were just two friends - Dominic Peters and David Poole, who lived a life of surfing and playing music in the southern most part of Africa, Cape Town.
All that changed when they decided to record an album. Not having a record deal or much money, they simply locked themselves in a bedroom... with a double bass, a saxophone and a couple of synths, recording their debut "Caught In The Loop" on their own. A charming dance record that received massive support from the international dance music scene, desperate for something fresh and new.
full bio (PDF)
It's been another unprecedented year for Goldfish. Two boys from Cape Town whose genredefying mix of jazzy house beats and searing live performances has seen them launch head first into the worldwide Dance Music consciousness. Almost hard to believe that not so long ago they were just two friends - Dominic Peters and David Poole, who lived a life of surfing and playing music in the southern most part of Africa, Cape Town.
All that changed when they decided to record an album. Not having a record deal or much money, they simply locked themselves in a bedroom... with a double bass, a saxophone and a couple of synths, recording their debut "Caught In The Loop" on their own. A charming dance record that received massive support from the international dance music scene, desperate for something fresh and new.
full bio (PDF)
Kwani Experience
Nominated for the South African Music Awards' 'Best Newcomer' category in 2006, 4 times MetroFM Awards Nominees' and advocates of the Live Without Fear message and campaign, Kwani Experience is a 6-piece band from the city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Gritty yet sophisticated with a distinct edge in their attitude, their messages, their look and their sound. Kwani has two albums on the market "The Birth of the Mudaland Funk" (2005) and "Live After Birth" (2007) and have done a lot of collaborations with big names such Sipho Hotsitx Mabuze, Pops Mohammed, South African rappers H.H.P and ProKid and the French DJ/Producer Oil. Individually, the members are seasoned and have good reputations in musical theatre and music production.
full bio (PDF)
Nominated for the South African Music Awards' 'Best Newcomer' category in 2006, 4 times MetroFM Awards Nominees' and advocates of the Live Without Fear message and campaign, Kwani Experience is a 6-piece band from the city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Gritty yet sophisticated with a distinct edge in their attitude, their messages, their look and their sound. Kwani has two albums on the market "The Birth of the Mudaland Funk" (2005) and "Live After Birth" (2007) and have done a lot of collaborations with big names such Sipho Hotsitx Mabuze, Pops Mohammed, South African rappers H.H.P and ProKid and the French DJ/Producer Oil. Individually, the members are seasoned and have good reputations in musical theatre and music production.
full bio (PDF)
Tumi Molekane
Three years back, Boitumelo 'Tumi' Molekane gave a tantalizing glimpse into his ability to go it solo with 'Music From My Good Eye'. Now, at the tail-end of 2009, he's made good on the promise contained in that South African Music Award-nominated album with a record that's, quite simply, breathtaking in its musical and lyrical scope.
Titled 'Whole Worlds', the release will be filed under hip-hop because that's the predominant musical force at play here. It's also the genre where Tumi has nurtured a faithful fanbase, in particular through his work with Tumi and the Volume, long beloved of those who choose their music by way of the underground railroad.
But, make no mistake, this is an album for a far larger audience, offering an entrance into an evolving form of hip-hop, where borders are thrust aside (both musical and geographic) and just about any other genre is allowed to push into the fray, as long as it comes with integrity and quality.
full bio (PDF)
Three years back, Boitumelo 'Tumi' Molekane gave a tantalizing glimpse into his ability to go it solo with 'Music From My Good Eye'. Now, at the tail-end of 2009, he's made good on the promise contained in that South African Music Award-nominated album with a record that's, quite simply, breathtaking in its musical and lyrical scope.
Titled 'Whole Worlds', the release will be filed under hip-hop because that's the predominant musical force at play here. It's also the genre where Tumi has nurtured a faithful fanbase, in particular through his work with Tumi and the Volume, long beloved of those who choose their music by way of the underground railroad.
But, make no mistake, this is an album for a far larger audience, offering an entrance into an evolving form of hip-hop, where borders are thrust aside (both musical and geographic) and just about any other genre is allowed to push into the fray, as long as it comes with integrity and quality.
full bio (PDF)
340ml
In a musical scene dominated by just a handful of starkly hewn genres, 340ml brew a music concoction that pulls down boundaries with ease and is set to make a lasting impact on the global music scene. The band's sound is truly eclectic, bringing together traditional music from around the world: Mozambiquan Marrabenta Latin, Afro and Jazz; and then mixing it up with Dub, Rave, Rock and Hip Hop.
The southern African four-member group, currently based in Johannesburg but with its roots firmly planted in Mozambique, includes Paulo Jorge Chibanga (drums), Rui Soeiro (bass), Tiago Correia Paulo (guitar) and Pedro da Silva Pinto (vocals, sampler). All four are skilled musicians with an eclectic approach to playing that makes for compelling listening. Paulo and Tiago also contribute to the off-kilter, jazz-inflected hip-hop created by Tumi and the Volume.
full bio (PDF)
In a musical scene dominated by just a handful of starkly hewn genres, 340ml brew a music concoction that pulls down boundaries with ease and is set to make a lasting impact on the global music scene. The band's sound is truly eclectic, bringing together traditional music from around the world: Mozambiquan Marrabenta Latin, Afro and Jazz; and then mixing it up with Dub, Rave, Rock and Hip Hop.
The southern African four-member group, currently based in Johannesburg but with its roots firmly planted in Mozambique, includes Paulo Jorge Chibanga (drums), Rui Soeiro (bass), Tiago Correia Paulo (guitar) and Pedro da Silva Pinto (vocals, sampler). All four are skilled musicians with an eclectic approach to playing that makes for compelling listening. Paulo and Tiago also contribute to the off-kilter, jazz-inflected hip-hop created by Tumi and the Volume.
full bio (PDF)
Steadyrock!
Born Durrell Ivandro Jadir Jacinto, into a Mozambican family of musicians, Steadyrock! is influenced primarily by his experiences of street life. This fiercely independent and self-reliant personality has worked for many years as an artist, composer, songwriter, guitarist and producer. He has worked with many best-selling artists but has retained an independent hold on his own musical career.
SteadyRock!, recently performed at Oppikoppi held at Northam in Limpopo. He's shared the stage with South Africa's award nominees including Cassette, The Privates, Marike Jager, Trompies, Skwatta Kamp, Lira, HHP, Kwani Experience and Gang of Instrumentals to mention a few.
SteadyRock is making waves in the rock-reggae scene. Highlights include contributing music to the soundtracks of the South African films White Wedding and Hidden Heart. His music video ÒMy favourite songÓ is currently enjoying rotation on Channel O and MTV Base.
full bio (PDF)
Born Durrell Ivandro Jadir Jacinto, into a Mozambican family of musicians, Steadyrock! is influenced primarily by his experiences of street life. This fiercely independent and self-reliant personality has worked for many years as an artist, composer, songwriter, guitarist and producer. He has worked with many best-selling artists but has retained an independent hold on his own musical career.
SteadyRock!, recently performed at Oppikoppi held at Northam in Limpopo. He's shared the stage with South Africa's award nominees including Cassette, The Privates, Marike Jager, Trompies, Skwatta Kamp, Lira, HHP, Kwani Experience and Gang of Instrumentals to mention a few.
SteadyRock is making waves in the rock-reggae scene. Highlights include contributing music to the soundtracks of the South African films White Wedding and Hidden Heart. His music video ÒMy favourite songÓ is currently enjoying rotation on Channel O and MTV Base.
full bio (PDF)
Loyiso Bala
As a teenager Loyiso Bala was trained at the prestigious Drakensburg Boys Choir in South Africa. He finished top of his class and nurtured his classical voice. After overwhelming success with legendary Kwaito act TKZee in 2000, Loyiso decided to release his own singles 'Musukukhala' and 'Silky Soft Skin' in 2001. The singles laid the foundation for Loyiso's solo career and he went on to released his first album ÒWine Woman and SongÓ in 2003, and his second album 'Amplified' in 2005. These albums solidified Loyiso's reputation as South Africa's king of R&B, with singles such as 'Girl Without A Name', 'Angel', ÔGimme The Night', 'Cappuccino' and 'Cuban'.
Since then, he has won multiple awards ranging from Best R&B album of 2007 at the Metro FM Awards, 5 SAMAs - South African Music Awards - 3 Metro FM awards, Best R&B and Best Producer at the SAMA awards 2008, was nominated for best song of 2009 and 2010 at the SAMAs for 'Blow Your Mind' and 'Maybe' respectively. He was also nominated at the MTV awards alongside Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Akon and P Square and is known for his recent style awards including "You" Magazine and GQÕs most stylish male in the country.
full bio (PDF)
As a teenager Loyiso Bala was trained at the prestigious Drakensburg Boys Choir in South Africa. He finished top of his class and nurtured his classical voice. After overwhelming success with legendary Kwaito act TKZee in 2000, Loyiso decided to release his own singles 'Musukukhala' and 'Silky Soft Skin' in 2001. The singles laid the foundation for Loyiso's solo career and he went on to released his first album ÒWine Woman and SongÓ in 2003, and his second album 'Amplified' in 2005. These albums solidified Loyiso's reputation as South Africa's king of R&B, with singles such as 'Girl Without A Name', 'Angel', ÔGimme The Night', 'Cappuccino' and 'Cuban'.
Since then, he has won multiple awards ranging from Best R&B album of 2007 at the Metro FM Awards, 5 SAMAs - South African Music Awards - 3 Metro FM awards, Best R&B and Best Producer at the SAMA awards 2008, was nominated for best song of 2009 and 2010 at the SAMAs for 'Blow Your Mind' and 'Maybe' respectively. He was also nominated at the MTV awards alongside Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Akon and P Square and is known for his recent style awards including "You" Magazine and GQÕs most stylish male in the country.
full bio (PDF)
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