Shotgun Story
Welcome to Shotgun Story The podcast that has conversations with Indie creators about music, meaning and the point of it all, so that you may be inspired by the journeys of other artists who are doing it for themselves and maybe gain a little more understanding as to why it matters quite so much that you keep creating. another Solid Gold podcast #BeHeard
Thu, October 03, 2024
#065 Your Heart is a Drum | Danny de Wet
The author of Sex, Drums, and Rock 'n Roll... In Africa! Danny De Wet is full-time drama and one-time drummer for eVoid, Petit Cheval, Electric Petals, and Wonderboom. And he's the author of 'Sex, Drums and Rock 'n Roll... in Africa'. We caught up to chat all about his book, his career, and the one he holds most dear (spoiler alert, it's his son!) This episode is full of great stories of a life lived on the stage and on tour - with a touch of blunt honesty, dash of 'ex-sagittarriun', and a HUGE amount of heart. If you love South African music, and want to reminisce about a time when live music was REALLY well supported, then this episode is for you. And so is Danny's book! It's a great read, and you'll find things to delight, humour and inspire you. Outro music (used with permission from rights holder): "FUN INTO FUNERAL" Artist: Danny de Wet | Composers:Danny de Wet / Kahn Morbee | Publisher: HolyOzone Music Follow Danny on Facebook for all upcoming events and news · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sun, July 14, 2024
#064 NEW Joburg based music festival and expo! | MusicEx - Leniese van der Merwe
MusicEx is an experiential event designed to engage, excite, and captivate music lovers by giving them the opportunity to browse products, attend educational sessions, enjoy live performances from major South African artists, and share their passion for music with others. Leniese Van Der Merwe (Assistant Project Director - MusicEx / Marketing Manager - Gallagher Estate) popped into studio to share all about this exciting new Joburg music festival. MusicEx festival tickets on special for up to 40% less for a limited time! Outro music: "Makoti" (remix) by Yvonne Chaka Chaka. Music used with permission from rights holder. Visit the MusicEx website · Buy your tickets on Webtickets · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, June 19, 2024
#063 A preserver of African indigenous instruments and a global performance | Thandeka Mfinyongo
From a family legacy to a Pulsations connection with the world. Thandeka Mfinyongo is a musician. She's a preserver of African indigenous instruments, and she's interested in archiving traditional instruments. She has her masters in music and is currently doing her PhD through Rhodes University. She's also the African Music lecturer at Northwestern University. In today's episode, we chat about how she came to make music, her family legacy of playing traditional instruments, and stories of the late legend Madosini. We also talk about her involvement in Make Music Day's Pulsations Event this Friday (21 June). The Pulsations livestream will broadcast the livestream on makemusicday.org between 3:00pm - 7:00pm (Paris time), and continuing with Ibrahim Maalouf's performance until 8:00pm. Outro music: "Ripples of Sound" by Thandeka Mfinyongo ft Kechou. Music used with permission of rights holder. Tune into the Pulsations Event on Friday 21 June 2024 3pm (Paris time) · Follow Thandeka on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, May 31, 2024
#062 Make Music Day - 21 June | Prof Janelize Morelli
Become a PRODUCER of culture, rather than simply a consumer of it... Make Music Day (a community music initiative that was started in 1982 in France by the Ministry of Culture) is coming up on the 21st of June and it's a day filled with free (and accessible) musical events for EVERYBODY (musicians and non-musicians alike). Have a listen to my conversation with Prof Janelize Morelli and find out how YOU can get involved. Janelize is an Associate Professor of Community Music at Northwest University, where she teaches undergrad modules and supervises post-grad students who are interested in transformative music education and community music. Her research interests include sound studies in environmental humanities and an ethic of care. Outro music - "iKhaya Lam" by Thandeka Mfinyongo. Music used with permission from rights holder. Find out more via the Make Music Day website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, March 20, 2024
#061 Orchestrate it yourself | Stanley Sibande
A story about making your own dreams a reality. Stanley Sibande is a Zambian-born, Cape Town-based, multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter. In this episode, we're chatting about making dreams a reality. Yourself. From booking a tour to Cape Town (from his home in Zambia, without ever having been to South Africa) to now doing the same (from his home in CPT) for his upcoming London tour. Feel like a little dose of inspiration? Listen to this conversation. Music outro: 'Clusters' by Stanley Sibande. Music used with permission from rights holder. Follow Stanley on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, February 21, 2024
#060 Get Real | Vicky Jankiewicz
Ever wanted to work behind the scenes in the music industry? Keen to hear all of the good (and gritty) music industry insider stuff from someone who's touched every side of it? Vicky Jankiewicz has spent the last 15 years behind the scenes in the music industry. She's one half of the dance floor damaging damsel DJ duo, #SOZLOL, and we had a fabulous conversation on the floor of her apartment over lunch. We talk about her long and varied career in the industry, brand merch, MFM, Oppikoppi, Good Luck Bar, Galpalooza, the late Henry Engelbrecht, the music scene in Joburg, and so so so much else! Outro music: "Moonlight" by Hellcats. Music used with permission from rights holder. Find Vicky on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, February 01, 2024
#059 I'm a girl... and when I learnt to embrace that, I felt more free | Meel Vignetting
Meel Vignetting are a five-piece South African alternative indie rock band from Gauteng. In today's episode, we talk about the music scene in Pretoria, tribute shows, and gender bias in the music industry. One in a series of conversations with some of the ladies... Outro music: 'Thermodynamics' by Meel Vignetting. Used with permission from rights holder. Follow Meel Vignetting on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, January 24, 2024
#058 Just a small town girl | Maddy Behrens
Are you brave enough to busk? Maddie Behrens is a folk/indie/rock/pop singer currently based in Johannesburg. Hailing from a small town in KZN, she learnt the performing ropes from busking in Washington Square Park in NYC. In this episode, we chat all about that, as well as what it's like to be a woman in the music industry in South Africa, the folk music scene, and the late Syd Kitchen. Outro music used with permission from rights holder. Follow Maddy on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, January 17, 2024
#057 Create a scene... Joburg edition | Lindo M
Sometimes you've got to Do It Yourself. Lindo M is a singer/songwriter from Johannesburg, South Africa. Unencumbered by the idea of genre, Lindo focuses on feeling and authenticity and is driven to create music that not only speaks for itself, but that can also speak for others... Get excited about this artist. Not only incredibly talented, but he's also working behind the scenes to reignite the Joburg music scene. And I can tell you, we need more like him. In today's episode, we talk about the lost art of protest music, why Joburg loves dance music, sustainable band merch and his new work. Outro music: 'The Matador' by Lindo M. Music used with permission from the rights holder. Follow Lindo M on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Mon, November 13, 2023
#056 Women's Day *Festival Feature* Galpalooza at Tweefontein Melkery | Jolene East
"Because these days, there's not enough girls at music festivals!" Galpalooza. Women's Day Music Festival at Tweefontein Melkery. Featuring an all-female line-up. Listen to the interview with Jolene East (Jolling | The Honeymooners) Outro track "I Know I Love You" by Jolling. Music used with permission from rights holder. Rockford Media on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Mon, August 28, 2023
#055 Find inspiration everywhere | Simone Govender
"I can honestly say it (music) saved my life at one point." Simone Govender is a pop singer-songwriter based in Johannesburg. She teaches music on the side. I heard her exquisite voice at a Saturday morning market, and I knew that I had to have a conversation... The thing is, when you make music for a living, more often than not you're building sets of songs that you think people want to hear. Reading people's minds is an art, and one that is hard to get right. Simone seems to hit the nail on the head most of the time. In this episode, we talk about building these sets, and with that said, also finding the courage to play your own songs! We chat about cyber-bullying, learning about the business side of music, faith, and the pinch-yourself moments that happen when you're following your dreams. Outro music: "The Attention's Really Killing Me" by Simone Govender. Music used with permission from rights holder. Find Simone on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, August 08, 2023
#54 Take the pressure off the music | Cito (WONDERboom)
"I haven't got millions of streams. I'm just doing what I'm doing." There is something wonderful about talking to someone with a lifetime of experience in their field. And this episode of the podcast is FILLED with delightful stories, lessons, coffee, and bits of GREAT advice. Martin 'Cito' Otto is a rock performer, songwriter, producer, music director, part-time actor, and newly-launched coffee mogul, best known as the lead singer of WONDERboom. When your third gig as a band is opening for Simple Minds in front of 15,000 people, you know the tales are going to be good... Outro music 'Prodigal Son' by WONDERboom. Music used with permission from rights holder. Cito on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sat, July 01, 2023
#53 How do you become an artist? Sustainably | Dave Starke
Dave Starke is a folk singer-songwriter in the ancient British Isles troubadour tradition (the modern version, obvs). He speaks a language I deeply understand, that of grappling with how to be an artist. Sustainably. In this episode, we chat about 'cultural confidence', being comfortable with being uncomfortable, writing songs out of desperate overwhelm, and the ancient role of the singer-songwriter in our cultural heritage. "You can't become whatever you want, you can only become what you are. And we just are musicians. You know, you can fight that as much as you want, and you can have misery either way. You can be miserable because you're not an artist, or you can become an artist and be miserable with that. And I think the latter is better." Listen to this episode to understand the life of a singer-songwriter in South Africa a whole lot better... Music outro: 'Burn After Reading' by Dave Starke. Music used with permission from the rights holder. Dave Starke on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sat, June 10, 2023
#52 Music publishing is a money conversation | Thando Makhunga
You're a creator. Use your talents and find a NICHE for yourself. Are you a songwriter (or a composer) debating whether to get a publisher or to try your hand at doing it yourself? As a creator, it's important to have a very open vision of your career and what you can and cannot do, so knowing both sides of the debate matters. Thando Makhunga is the Managing Director of Sheer Music Publishing, and she popped into the studio to chat a bit about the ins and outs of music publishing, what it means, and why it's so important. We talk about the roles of a publisher and the songwriter, the importance of transparency in the relationship between them, and how publishing is about ownership! Money conversations can be tricky for artists, but they're imperative to have. For more information, contact info@sheer.co.za Music outro: 'unfolded' by Shotgun Tori. Music used with permission from the rights holder. Head over and subscribe to Sheer's newsletter · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, April 20, 2023
#51 The role of labels in the modern music business | Benjy Mudie
Why do you want to go to a label? They can't do anything for you. Benjy Mudie has been in the business of making music for over 40 years. In 1998, he founded the independent South African music label Fresh Music. He has been responsible for signing and developing some of the most successful artists in this country: Squeal, Mango Groove, Little Sister, Vicki Samson (to name just a few!) If you're a music lover, tune in to this episode for stories about eVoid, Mango Groove, Fallen Mirror (plus some great advice about starting a record collection). If you're a music maker, you'll want to listen to the sections about artist development, the role of record labels in the modern music industry, and the importance of having a battle plan if you're going to embark on the indie route. "If you go into it wanting to be rich, you're in for a rude awakening." -Benjy Mudie To get in touch with Benjy, email fresh@icon.co.za Outro music: 'Leave the Bones' by Cofield Mundi. Music used with permission from rights holder. website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, March 24, 2023
#50 It's better to stay light | Senna-Marie
"There was a moment when I decided I wanted to prioritise music." The body is a mediator through which we experience but it’s also a conspirator, colouring experiences with feeling just in time for our arrival. Johannesburg-based songwriter, Senna-Marie is interested in the clumsiness of feeling, fight and body; documenting how it enters into conversation through her intimate songwriting and vulnerable voice. Music outro: 'Stonewall Soldier' by Senna-Marie. Music used with permission from rights holder. Senna-Marie's Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Mon, March 13, 2023
#049 Are your sounds cinematic? | Nkuli Sibeko & Leli Maki
You can't make a film and not put any music in it. Jack&Jill Productions is a boutique company based in South Africa. Their latest film 'Table Manners' was an official selection at The Indie Film Fest (2019), Universal Film Fest (2019), Jelly Fest (2019), Durban International Film Festival (2018), and Silwerskerm Festival (2018). The film was also nominated for Best Picture and Best Director on its International Festival Run. The people behind Jack&Jill are Leli Maki Esq. (Director) and Nkuli Sibeko (Producer). The pair popped into studio for a little (and MORE THAN delightful) chat about what's involved in getting music into films. This interview pulls no punches. If you are a musician who'd like to see your song in a film or a tv show, you want to listen to this. It's full of gems like: "And sadly, I think one of the things that surprised me when we first started on this journey was discovering that it's never the artists that you're going to (for music rights), because they never own their own music." and "We're not looking for a hit song, but for how a heart breaks." and "If the words 'I don't like that song' are going to break you. Find a new career." and "Congratulating a musician on releasing a song is the same as congratulating a child for breathing." Outro music: 'So Lucky' by the Plastics Music used with permission from rights holder. Follow Jack&Jill Productions on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, March 02, 2023
#048 The music business is a war | Cindy Alter
"The music business is a war and the fist weapon of war is knowledge." Cindy Alter is an international award-winning chart-topping multi-million album-selling singer-songwriter from South Africa. She was lead singer of the 70s band Clout (best known for their hit single Substitute). In this week's episode, I'm chatting to Cindy remotely from Nashville about all things music. Tune in as she talks about leaving SA, co-writing, ageism, sexism, and doing music because you LOVE it and not because you want to be a star. Music outro: Last one standing by Cindy Alter. Music used with permission from rights holder. Follow Cindy on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, February 23, 2023
#047 Don't be a d*ck and try not to write sh*t songs | Alastair Thomas
"It was a very quick realisation that if you have a band of five people with a publicist and a manager and a booking agent, and a sound engineer, it's impossible to survive. So we had to keep the day jobs." Alastair Thomas plays in a band. He has a production company, he directs and edits things, and he likes dogs. Legendary frontman of Shortstraw and Cockles, Alastair popped into the studio for a little chat about the best parts of making music (cue massive goosebumps), having a day job, tours to Japan, and an audience singing your songs back to you. Outro Music: "Joshin" by Cockles. Music used with permission from rights holders. Alastair's Instagram · Connect with Alastair on LinkedIn · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, February 16, 2023
#046 The SAMPRA Development Fund | Yvette Rammalo
You've got to APPLY if you want any chance at being funded! Are you a musician and not yet a member of SAMPRA? Are you confused about whether you should be? Today's interview will help you understand the importance of signing up. I'm chatting to Yvette Rammalo, (PR & Marketing Officer from SAMPRA) and she has a lot of GREAT advice for anyone looking to submit an application for the SAMPRA Development Fund. Yup, a couple of times a year SAMPRA distributes funds that can go towards music productions, live events, training (and a number of other things), but you've got to APPLY if you want any chance at being funded. For anyone who doesn't know, SAMPRA (short for the South Africa Music Performance Rights Association) is a collective management organisation (CMO) that administers Needletime Rights on behalf of recording artists and record labels. The SAMPRA Development Fund is the CSI arm of SAMPRA, and its vision is to promote the value of South African recorded music with the aim of providing SAMPRA members with strategic opportunities to stimulate their growth, development, sustainability and social awareness. Spoiler alert: there are some products that you can't apply for unless you've earned R3000 in royalties, BUT there are some products that you can STILL apply for if you haven't earned that. Listen to the episode, get informed, become a member, and consider applying for the SAMPRA Development Fund! For any SAMPRA queries, email info@sampra.org.za For any SAMPRA Development Fund-related queries, email info@samprafund.co.za Outro music: 'One Day Closer to the Rain' by Shotgun Tori. Music used with permission from rights holder. Follow SAMPRA on Twitter · Follow SAMPRA on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, February 10, 2023
#045 If you stop you don't get better! | Bruce Dennill
Don't listen to the naysayers... Bruce Dennill is a writer, an art critic, and a musician based in Johannesburg. In this episode we talk about the creative faucet, how there's simply too MUCH music, understanding the value of art, having tracks picked up for TV shows and the importance of figuring out who your friends are. 'Dreamed you different' by Bruce Dennill. Music used with permission from the rights holder. Connect with Bruce on LinkedIn · Follow Bruce on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, January 31, 2023
#044 Just put it out there man! | Steve East
"The majority of us will never get involved in the business side of music" "I want us all to be 60 / 70 (years old). Still playing, still jamming and going at it and probably still moaning we don't get paid enough." Steve East, aka Mayor of Benoni is a jack of all trades and a master of all of them! A musician, booking agent, designer, music video director, radio voice, vocalist from the old country band Crystal park, and founder of Rockford media. In this week's episode of the Shotgun Story podcast we talk about the proverbial glass ceiling for roots, blues & country in South Africa, the 'boys club', ageism, playing on the same stages as your musical heroes and how hard it is to book bands when they don't have videos of themselves performing live! "Pick your best song, play it live and send me like 30 seconds" Listen for a really down to earth, honest perspective of what it's like to be a working musician in SA. "It's just kind of finding your thing and just doing it." - Steve East 'Maybe Tomorrow' Written by John Crossen and Terry Bush Performed by Steve East Recorded by Ye Olde Farm House Studios Send an email to Steve - Steve.East@RockfordMedia.com Connect with Steve on LinkedIn · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, January 24, 2023
#043 Just be you | Lizzie Gaisford
You're not doing anybody any favours trying to be somebody you're not. Lizzy Lou Gaisford is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist in the band the Fishwives. She's also an ecologist with a particular passion for frogs. We sat down for a chat in a rainy room in Eshowe mid-COVID some years ago. I FINALLY got around to listening to it. And much like every episode so far, it's come at a time when I needed to hear this conversation. Maybe you do too? We talk about making music as a coping mechanism, songwriting from a South African perspective, the desire to delete social media, the power of covering other people's songs, and how not doing music full-time doesn't need to change your identity as a musician. "You play the songs that people love and that mean things to them and then you're doing your job. That's the archetypal purpose." - Lizzie Lou Gaisford (Fishwives) "I have done lots of strange work for money and it's never affected my sense of self. I'm lucky. You can whore yourself out doing spreadsheets, but because I'm a musician, I can then stay up all night writing a song." - Lizzie Lou Gaisford (Fishwives) The Fishwives very recently released a new album and it's SO GOOD. Follow the links to listen to it. 'Leadwood and the Lion' by Fishwives Fishwives Facebook
Fri, December 16, 2022
#042 The service is to the song | Nicole Theron
'My hooks don't ba-dum-ching' "If your idea of success is being on the radio, then you want to be in the entertainment industry. If your idea of success is making a lot of money, then you want to be in the music business. But if you want to touch people's lives, and if you want to have a life of wonder, adventure, and magic, then music is what you're after..." Engaging, irreverent and subversive, Nicole Turon is a fearless singer, songwriter, poet and performer. She weaves delicate, intoxicating harmonies of piano and voice that haunt and linger with a wit sharp enough to cut you. If you'd like to become her pen pal, email her at nicoletheronmusic@gmail.com. She promises to write back. 'Out of Context' by Nicole Theron. Music used with permission from rights holder. website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, December 07, 2022
#041 If you're an artist, you're never going to not be that | Andrew Jed
So don't be afraid of being fearless in your songwriting. Ready to quit? Letting vanity metrics define your worth as an artist? Getting down on yourself because you don’t feel like you’re cracking a certain number of followers or likes on social media? Just STOP! Chock-full of advice and inspiration, Andrew Jed’s interview has some gems that will have you back in studio making music again. This is exactly what you need to hear today. Andrew Jed is a songwriter and musician in the most vintage sense of the term. He is a songwriter for the songwriter, a musician for the musicians, and a performer for the people. His songs are records of moments and experiences and nostalgia and half-drunk bottles of old rough-edged saloon whiskey. "Brakeman" by Andrew Jed. Music used with permission from the rights holder. Visit Andrew's website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, September 09, 2022
#040 Music saves lives | Naledi Tlailane
A reminder to follow your own vision and trust yourself. You are important. If you're in the entertainment industry, chances are you took a real knock over the past two years! But Naledi Tlailane reckons that the thick skin that entertainers have had to develop from a career full of auditions (and subsequent rejections) helped prepare them for the ultimate "No" of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Naledi Tlailane is an actress, storyteller, presenter, voice artist, and aspiring documentary short filmmaker. She's an art and drama practitioner mostly working with children from underprivileged communities and uplifting our environment. This week's episode is a small window into the life of a high-energy performer who gets to explore her goofy side in her drama work. Recorded sometime last year, Naledi and I chatted about creativity as a survival instinct, rejection as a tool for resilience, the importance of remembering where you started and WHY you do this! We also talk a little about the slow unfurling of the music scene post-covid, and how EVERYBODY should stay creative, whether or not it's your job. "Ethereal" by Rikus Nieuwenhuis (Karmic Kick). Music used with permission from the rights holder. Follow Naledi on Instagram · Find Naledi on Facebook · Subscribe to Naledi on YouTube
Fri, August 26, 2022
#039 It's Gonna Be Fine | Shotgun Tori
If the artists think so, it must be true right? Artists, more often than not, head into the dimly lit spaces that most fear to tread. They take the unpalatable aspects of being alive and transmute them into beautiful morsels that make reality and 'adulting' feel less lonely. In this episode, Daniel Friedman takes the driver's seat and shines a spotlight on your host Shotgun Tori's new EP 'It's Gonna Be Fine!' Riding Shotgun, she takes the guest seat, unpacking the making of this EP, the funding from SAMRO, the incredible musicians who feature on it, and whether she thinks it's actually GONNA be fine. Shotgun Tori is an indie folk singer/songwriter who believes that stories are to be shared and not left to wither quietly. Point in case. This EP was made possible by SAMRO's MCSF Initiative. Website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sun, June 12, 2022
#038 Finish everything you do! | Bart Janssen
"The business is as important as the product." Bart Janssen is a producer, composer, and guitarist from the Netherlands and working with companies like Universal, Disney, and Talpa, he has developed a strong portfolio. Bart is a well-known session guitar player and has performed with acts like the Backstreet Boys and Il Divo. Aside from producing several radio hits in the Netherlands, his music features on TV, radio, and internet ads. We met over a decade ago, and his pop sensibilities have shifted many of the ways that I look at music. In this conversation, we focus on songwriting for other artists, as well as ways to make a living in the music industry. This episode is FULL of really great advice for anyone trying to make money making music. Find Bart on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, April 13, 2022
#037 A catalyst for the magic | Jolene East
“I’m not asking a boy to come to band practice, I’m doing my own music now" Jolene East (Jolling / The Honeymooners) is a singer-songwriter and a ukulele player, who loves to write authentic songs that bring out the emotions in people. Alongside her husband Steve East (Crystal Park / The Honeymooners), she also runs the venue Tweefontein Melkery. In this charming (and delightfully hilarious) episode, Jolene talks about how karaoke brought her closer to the music, releasing her new EP, showing Vanilla Ice how to sokkie and the extent to which she missed festivals during lockdown: “I want to have no shoes on and have a doring in my foot, slide in mud and ruin my outfit early in the day. It’s fine!” Her EP, "Fetch Me", was released worldwide through Just Music and can be found on all online platforms. Outro music: "I know I love you" by Jolling. Music used with permission from rights holders. Follow Jolene on Instagram · Jolling on Linktr.ee · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, April 01, 2022
#036 Funding Opportunities for Musicians | Andre le Roux
"It's not just about the money, it about a sense of self-worth" Andre Le Roux is the Managing Director of IKS Cultural Consulting, head of the Concerts SA Project, on the board of the Market Theatre Foundation and the Audit and Risk Committee of Music in Africa, as well as the Southern African Focal Point for the African Culture Fund. He is considered a highly regarded African cultural activist, and this week on the podcast we're talking about funding opportunities for musicians! In this episode: what's been lost in the sector over the last two years, the Concerts SA Digital Mobility Fund (and best practices!), how the act of applying for funding can get 'some people out of that dark place of being alone', sharing information with other artists, unlocking the nighttime economy in our cities, and the importance of visionary leadership. This should be required listening for any independent artist invested in their careers. To find out more about funding opportunities, head to the Facebook link below. To get in touch directly with regards to the Digital Mobility Fund, email DMF@IKSafrica.com. For general questions, email Hello@IKSafrica.com Outro music: Supa Tsela by Kgomotso Le Roux featuring DJ Clap. Music used with permission from rights holders. IKS Cultural Consulting on Facebook · Please complete the streaming models survey · Connect with Andre · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, December 29, 2021
#035 If there's anything else you'd rather be doing, do that | Justin Sasman (Bombshelter Beast)
"If you have kids, love them, have fun with them, and show them all of you." Welcome to Episode #10 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from the Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Justin Sasman is a musical contractor, a brass player, and an educator at Northwest University in Potchefstroom. He plays in a band called Bombshelter Beast, and in the local orchestra. He's also a dad. In this episode Justin talks about being selective about the work you take on, the self-esteem that comes from doing what you love (despite what anybody else thinks), remembering what is feels like to be a child, and how developing your craft makes you a better parent. We also chat about how child-friendly venues could better support musicians who are parents, the importance of maintaining a sense of child-like wonder, and the perspective shift that comes with having kids (hint: all the things we think are important, aren't!) Outro music: 'Taka Takata' by Bombshelter Beast. Music used with permission from rights holders. Bombshelter Beast on Facebook · Brass Collective on Facebook · The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra on Facebook · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, December 28, 2021
#034 I could never have done it alone | Yvonne Chaka Chaka
"This industry is unstable unless you have your feet firmly on the ground." Welcome to Episode #9 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from the Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Mama Yvonne Chaka Chaka is a musician, a philanthropist, and a lover of life. She's also a mother. In this episode Yvonne talks about being a mom at 19, signing to a label, recording an album and becoming an overnight success. She talks about children as a gift from God, bringing her son on tour (and the artists who look after each-others kids backstage), being present as a mother and the importance of front-liner artists paying decent salaries to those behind the scenes. What an incredible honour it was to have this conversation. Outro music: 'Kulila' by Yvonne Chaka Chaka. Music used with permission from rights holder. Mama Yvonne on Facebook · Mama Yvonne on Instagram · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Mon, December 27, 2021
#033 Raise somebody well | Mapumba
"Just brace yourself. It’s hard but it’s also beautiful." Welcome to Episode #8 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from the Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Mapumba is a singer/songwriter and a guitarist who's into music, sound and life. He's based in Cape Town, and he's also a dad. In today's episode Mapumba talks about the differences between raising a teen vs. a young child, how his refugee background taught him the value of giving your children a sense of security, the emotional support systems required for artists, how your wealth is the love that you put into your creative practice (that's the only thing you have any control over!), and being prepared to take whatever comes with being a parent. Outro music: Mountains by Mapumba Music used with permission from the rIghts holder. Mapumba on Instagram · Mapumba on Bandcamp · Mapumba on Spotify · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, December 23, 2021
#032 We have to look after ourselves, as mothers | Tamara Dey
"I didn’t know my own strength until having a child." Welcome to Episode #7 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from the Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Tamara Dey is a creator, a manifestor, a mother, an entertainer, and a magic-maker. In this episode Tamara talks about being a ‘crazy, silly, embarrassing music fan’, finding spaces where all the aspects of you come into play, ageism in the music industry, disco therapy, and bringing a child into the world on your own. We also chat about how having kids shows you what you’re made of, the stigmas attached to having a baby when you’re a musician, making bold choices, importance of self-care and teaching your children that you CAN make money doing something you love. Outro track: ‘Fire’ by Tamara Dey ft. Craig Massiv. Music used with permission from rights holders. Tamara Dey on Instagram · Tamara Dey on Twitter · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, December 17, 2021
#031 The enemy of creativity is stress | Hagen Engler (Jedi Rollers/The Feel So Strongs)
"Rather embrace parenthood AND your status as a musician and creator." Hagen Engler is a word artist, a singer, a guitarist, a spoken word performer, a writer, the author of a book called The Trustees, frontman for a band called The Feel So Strongs. He's also known as Inspector Ras. And he's a dad. In this episode we talk about co-parenting (and finding practical ways to make it work), leaving a lasting legacy, stressful experiences as fuel for creative material (and relaxing as a form of self-love!), understanding your own work through fresh eyes, the importance of prolonging a musicians career and the rich, nuanced art that comes with age. He also talks about being an extra in his daughter's TikTok videos, band dynamics like a five-way marriage, the skill of aging, and living intentionally. Outro music: 'Glimmer of Light' by the Jedi Rollers. Used with permission from rights holders. Hagen Engler on Twitter · The Feel So Strongs on Facebook · Hagen's Blog · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, December 14, 2021
#030 It's not impossible, just a lot of hard work | Jennifer Eaves (Jenny & the Jameses)
"If you want a family, just do it!" Welcome to Episode #5 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Jennifer Eaves is a songwriter, an artist, a poet, a painter, a pianist, a teacher, a singer, a guitarist, and one of the composers of a band called Jenny and the Jameses. She's also a mom. In this episode we talk about being a full-time musician when you're also a single mum, recording an album after everybody has gone to bed, helping your children develop a sense of appreciation for the arts, and the beauty of how the folk music community rally behind each other. Outro music: 'Old Days' by Jennifer Eaves. Music used with permission from rights holders. Jennifer's website · Jenny on Instagram · Jenny & the Jameses on Facebook · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, December 10, 2021
#029 Parenting is a powerful vehicle for creativity | Zolani Mahola (The One Who Sings)
"You're walking around with your heart walking around next to you." Welcome to Episode #4 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Zolani Mahola’s mandate is to have fun and to play in this next incarnation in her life. She's a singer, a storyteller, an actress, an artist and a mum. She's also The One Who Sings. In this episode, Zolani talks about the creativity that comes from the vulnerability of parenting, dreams that include bringing children on tour, the necessity for 'tag team' parenting when both parents work in the creative industries, the advocacy that we can do for ourselves as artists, and the importance of doing things that bring you closer to yourself. Outro music: 'Lullaby for Zen' by The One Who Sings. Music used with permission from rights holder. Zolani's website · Zolani on Instagram · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, December 08, 2021
#028 The glamour is at home | Siyabonga Mthembu (The Brother Moves On)
"You're a migrant labourer that goes into the sky, not into the ground." Welcome to Episode #3 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Guest: Siyabonga Mthembu (The Brother Moves On) Siyabonga Mthembu is a performance artist, a curator, the vocalist from The Brother Moves On, and the first returning guest on our show. He's also a dad. In this episode we talk about what it means to be a parent when you're on tour internationally for 30/40 days at a time. Siya talks about exposing your children to the arts (but not putting them on tv!), about kids writing catchy songs, having a village to raise them, being a safe place, and getting older. He also talks about the importance of knowing what KIND of artist you are, and he poses some incredibly important questions to South African artists. Outro music: 'Elders' by The Brother Moves On. Music used with permission from rights holders. Siyabonga Mthembu on Instagram · The Brother Moves On on Instagram · Siyabonga Mthembu on Twitter. · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, December 03, 2021
#027 Is a rock band just a pre-kids life? | Shane Durrant (Desmond and the Tutus)
"You don't have to give up everything." Welcome to Episode #2 in a 10-part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from Music in Africa Foundation, the German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Guest: Shane Durrant (Desmond and the Tutus) Shane Durrant is a musician, a songwriter, a creative director, and a dad. He's also the frontman of the band Desmond and the Tutus. Tune in to this episode to listen to a delightful conversation about whether (or not) you HAVE to give up your career in a rock band when you become a parent (and how being the primary caregiver could impact that choice). We also chat about MySpace and the (crazy cool) opportunities it manifested, 15 years of being in a band, how having kids can change the creative process, the value of culture and music and how financial support for artists is an investment. Outro music: 'Ladybug' by Desmond and the Tutus. Music used with permission from rights holders. Desmond and the Tutus on Instagram · Desmond and the Tutus on Facebook · Desmond and the Tutus on Twitter · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, November 30, 2021
#026 Mommy is for giving hope to people | Buyisiwe Njoko (Sun Xa Experiment)
"I knew that I wanted to touch peoples lives one way or another." Welcome to Episode #1 in a 10 part series on "Parents in the Music Industry" - made possible with funding support from Music in Africa Foundation, The German Federal Foreign Office, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut. Guest: Buyisiwe Njoko (Sun Xa Experiment) Buyisiwe Njoko is a mom, a writer, a songwriter, a philosopher, a teacher, a free thinker, a humanitarian who believes in liberty and the vocalist of Sun Xa Experiment. In this interview she talks about the importance of professionalism, having your affairs in order, being present as a mother, the role of the extended family, and the need for the industry to support the mental health aspects of parenting and performing. Outro track: 'Ungubani' by Sun Xa Experiment. Music used with permission from rights holders. Buyisiwe Njoko on Instagram · Sun Xa Experiment on Instagram · Sun Xa Experiment on Bandcamp · Music in Africa Foundation · Siemens Stiftung · Goethe-Institut · German Federal Foreign Office · Buyisiwe on LinkedIn · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, November 17, 2021
#025 The Gatekeepers | Angela Weickl
When they lose support, they lose their power... With a career in the creative industries spanning 15 years Angela Weickl has fulfilled multiple roles - talent agent, music industry consultant, journalist, DJ, and radio show host to name a few. She is also the director of the South African chapter of shesaidso. In today's episode we chat about writing under pseudonyms, a life-long love affair with music, her involvement with shesaid.so (a global community that consists of women and gender minorities from all sectors of the music industry), the process of creating a Ted Talk, being pro-artist, and how it's time to get a strong handle on your career. Ang also talks about the extra hurdles that women and the LGBTQ+ community have to overcome in the music industry, and what YOU can do to help the problem. What a rad conversation! Outro music: 'Your Mother Never Taught You Manners' - Rose Bonica Used with permission from rights holder. Angela on Instagram · Angela on Twitter · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, September 17, 2021
#024 Creative expression is as valuable as academic expression | Zethu Gqola
Inspired career beginnings, being a parent in music, & PR advice FTW! Zethu Gqola (Music Industry Marketing Campaign Manager) Zethu Gqola is a marketing campaign manager working in the music and events industries. She creates marketing strategies and campaigns for the music releases of some of the biggest artists in Africa. She's also a mom that I met through the shesaid.so Parenthood Committee (a community of parents within shesaid.so, formed to support and hear the voices of parents of all genders, who are members or allies. The committee's objective is to provide a supportive and open platform to empower parents in the music industry). In this episode - a career journey that kicks off with a solo 23 hour bus trip to CPT, is initially powered by a social media presence, and currently also involves juggling motherhood. Zethu unpacks the challenges (as well as some of the advantages) of being a parent in music, how the industry could better support moms, what to do with ideas you're not planning to use immediately, and some GREAT PR advice for any artists trying to reach an audience. As she says in the interview, Zethu is always open to answering any career questions you may have. Non-creepy DM's welcome. Outro music: Black, free & beautiful by Moonga k. Music used with permission from rights holder. Zethu on TikTok · Zethu on Insta · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, August 20, 2021
#023 We've Got To Do It Ourselves | Finn MacKinnon
Finn MacKinnon (Tjoon and Burning Groove) Tjoon - free education & tech tools for South African independent musicians Finn MacKinnon likes to find solutions to problems. He's a dreamer, an entrepreneur, a musician, and co-founder of a new platform called Tjoon. It brings free education and tech tools to help South African independent musicians manage their copyrights and careers and earn royalties from the music. It's a beautiful colab between music and tech. This episode is all about arming yourself with knowledge to go out and tackle the world of music business things. DIY for the win. As Finn says "I think the ball is firmly in our court. We've got to educate ourselves, we've got to take control over our rights, we've got to take control over our industry. And we've got to make sure that we get paid. Because, as we've seen, no one else is going to do it for us." Outro music: Silence the Screams by Caution Boy. Music used with permission from rights holder. Tjoon Website · Burning Groove on IG · Caution Boy on IG · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sat, July 31, 2021
#022 Knowledge Is Power | Lana Crowster
"I want to get this degree and come back and change people's lives" - Lana Lana Crowster is a singer/songwriter, creative, and a musical entrepreneur. And an absolute delight. In today's episode we chat about travelling internationally for music, singing backing vocals for your heroes, the story behind the Lady Day Big Band, music and arts as one of SA's most amazing exports, and leaving the world in a better place. Also, you can help get Lana to New York University for a degree in the music business by heading to the back-a-buddy link at below. "I really want to go do this thing and get this degree and come back and help change people's lives. And make sure that everybody can be successful in music, but also have longevity. And look after themselves and their families." - Lana Crowster Outro Music: 'Fake' by Lana Crowster. Music used with permission from rights holder. Lana's Bandcamp · Lana on Facebook · Help Lana get to NYU · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Fri, July 09, 2021
#021 Your Niche Is Out There Somewhere | Toast Coetzee
Are you a band looking to one day tour SA? Listen to this episode! Wikipedia calls Toast Coetzer a South African poet. He would say that he's a writer, a travel journalist and the vocalist of The Buckfever Underground. In this week's episode - the birth and beginnings of The Buckfever Underground, proper DIY merch-making and 'artifacts', the cumulative effect of consistently making things (KEEP MAKING THINGS!), the most delightful behind the scenes glimpse into a tour when you're a band with a cult following, and SO MUCH good advice for indie artists wanting to do the same. With a ton of references to the landscape of the SA music scene at a certain point in our history, I'd call this episode a historically important artifact. Also, if you're a writer keen on submitting your work to the Ons Klyntji Zine, email sendusyourpoems@gmai.com Outro music: 'The Valley of Dancing Stones' by The Buckfever Underground from the EP 'Satelliet'. Music used with permission from rights holder. The Buckfever Underground on IG · Toast Coetzer on IG · Toast Coetzer on FB · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, June 30, 2021
#020 The Value Is In Us | Siyabonga Mthembu
This interview should be required listening for every human being Siyabonga Mthembu is a curator, a creative entrepreneur, and a self-starter. Bandleader for the band The Brother Moves On, he is slowly becoming a scene godfather. In this week's episode we talk about Coca Cola Pop Stars, music as a tool for healing, BIG international tours, what it means to be a dad AND a musician, the story behind 'Indaba Is', the problem with ageism, a planet that's burning, indigenous knowledge systems, and music as a calling. There is no description that could adequately convey the depth of knowledge and wisdom in one man, so I will preface the show with these quotes from it: "We've institutionalised creativity. It only means something if the market wants it." - Siyabonga Mthembu "So slowly in the language, our cultures have been eradicated." - Siyabonga Mthembu "Music is part of nature." - Siyabonga Mthembu "You gotta come at it with that sense of reverence." - Siyabonga Mthembu "You take this idea and put it into the collective space and break it and make a collective idea from it. Because it's just the tip of the iceberg." - Siyabonga Mthembu Outro music: 'Eternal Dove of Peace' written by Zelizwe Mthembu and Siyabonga Mthembu. Music used with permission from rights holder. Instagram · Facebook · The Brother Moves On Website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, June 01, 2021
#019 You don't have to suffer for your art | Jackie Queens
A parent in the music industry, Jackie Queens tackles some big questions This week, in collaboration with shesaid.so parenthood, we’re kicking off a new monthly feature focusing on parents in the music industry. The shesaid.so parenthood committee is a community of parents within shesaid.so, formed to support and hear the voices of parents of all genders who are members or allies. The committee’s objective is to provide a supportive and open platform to empower parents in the music industry. In today’s episode I chatted to Jackie Queens, a house music vocalist, a label owner, and a cultural worker based in Johannesburg, South Africa. She's also a mom, and a shesaid.so parenthood ambassador. We talk about the balancing act of being a parent in the music industry, why she started her own label, having a semi normal life alongside the music, the importance of defining what success looks like to you and making sure that we create environments that are inclusive, where anyone who wants to be in the music industry has a fair chance at having a career and also being happy within their career. Outro music : 'Mwanangu' by Jackie Queens & Veneigrette. Music used with permission from rights holder. Jackie Queens on Instagram · Jackie Queens on Twitter · Jackie Queens on Facebook · SheSaidSo Website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Sun, May 16, 2021
#018 How Bad Do You Want It? | Jamie Acheson (Naming James)
Jamie's main drive is to connect with as many humans as possible... Lead singer of the band, Naming James, Jamie Acheson is a professional jester, songwriter, string-breaker, dreamer, husband and long-time member of musical obscurity, with massive allergies to rent and finance. We've been friends for decades (ever since the days of the Songwriters Club in Newtown), and in this week's delightful episode, I learnt some beautifully revealing things about him that I had never known. He talks about the conscious side of music, the importance of resilience, keeping your inner child happy and how arts will save the day. I feel really lucky that, as creators (and EVERYBODY is one), we get to make things that deepen our experience of the world and each other! Outro Music: 'The Butcher's Knife' by Naming James. Used with permission from rights holder. Naming James Website · Naming James on YouTube · Follow James on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, April 28, 2021
#017 Something like a movement | Jacob Zakes Wulana (Tidal Waves)
'Original Music for Original People' Tidal Waves is the hardest working reggae band in South African, and a stalwart on the local festival scene. In this weeks episode I'm chatting to guitarist/vocalist Jacob Zakes Wulana about music as a movement, the healing power of it, traveling the world, the impact of bra Piet, backing Ziggy Marley, and getting inspired by collaboration. Having witnessed plenty of the bands sets, and having greeted each other from many backstages, I was honoured to have this opportunity to get to know this big-hearted, gentle man a little better. Outro Music: 'N12' from the album 'Tomorrow Starts Today' by Tidal Waves. Music used with permission from rights holder. Follow Tidal Waves on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, April 13, 2021
#016 African Dream Parade | Ann Jangle
"As long as you have music, you'll always have food on the table." Basically the bravest person I know, Ann Jangle has done what most of us wish we had the courage to - she's living her dreams at all costs. In today's episode we talk about her African Dream Parade, touring Europe, collaborating with legends, sleeping under the stars, the kindness of people, playing your own kind of music, starting your own movement, and moving past the fear. Follow her journey on https://annjangle.com and find out how you can play a part in the next adventure. Outro music : Pink Cocaine by Ann Jangle. Music used with permission from rights holder. Ann Jangle website · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, March 18, 2021
#015 Sharing Your Life Through Music | Bongeziwe Mabandla
It's really a beautiful thing, a beautiful exchange of arts in one room Bongeziwe Mabandla has been called the enigmatic spirit of African soul. He's a singer songwriter, a SAMA winner, and he's been making waves internationally. And we finally got it together to have a long distance chat about it all! In this week's episode, we talk about continue to be a working musician during a pandemic - creating an album, collaborating, and European tours. We also talk about shows that sell out in 10 minutes (and that's not an exaggeration!) and the magic of collaborations where the meeting of the two worlds makes sense. Tickets for his Cape Town and Johannesburg tour dates are going up on sale Friday 19th of March at 11am via Quicket. The show is going to be beautiful. Outro Music: 'Masiziyekelele' by Bongeziwe Mabandla. Music used with permission from rights holders. Stream or Buy the full album · Bongeziwe on Facebook · Bongeziwe on Instagram · Bongeziwe on Twitter · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, March 04, 2021
#014 We love what we do. And we care about the music | Tecla Ciofli
Every wondered about the music journalists behind the scenes? Tecla Ciolfi (TEXX AND THE CITY) Within the Indie music scene (and I'm talking INDEPENDENT, not genre specific) there are a number of music bloggers, lovers, journalists, and photographers who have your back. Tecla Ciolfi is the leader of that pack. In today's episode, the genius behind Texx and the City talks blogging, how it all began, what inspires her, things you should know about streaming, and starting a company (and INCREDIBLY SUCCESSFUL PODCAST!!) mid-Covid. There is a wealth of valuable information for independent musicians right here. Outro music : 'Whatever you like' by PHFAT For budding journalists - contact@texxandthecity.com texxandthecity.com · Texx on Insta · Texx on Twitter · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Mon, February 15, 2021
#013 Have A Little Faith | Nibs van der Spuy
"Music is the most powerful spiritual force on this planet." Nibs van der Spuy Nibs van der Spuy is one of the most extraordinary and exciting, world acoustic guitarists and exports to come out of South Africa. Raised in the fertile province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Nibs immersed himself in his natural environment to formulate a truly consummate and original sound. Growing up with the Beatles and learning first hand from traditional Zulu Maskandi guitarists, he quickly soaked up a rich tapestry of his close surroundings and beyond. In this weeks episode, Nibs tells stories of remarkable collaborations, of festivals one only DREAMS of playing, of European tours done a little differently, how the harder you work the luckier you get, and how SOUL trumps technical prowess. Have a little faith. Get inspired. Listen to this episode. Outro Music : 'Trample on Lions' by Nibs van der Spuy. Music used with permission from rights holder. Nibs van der Spuy on Bandcamp · Nibs van der Spuy website · Nibs van der Spuy on YouTube · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, February 04, 2021
#012 Music is so immediate | Barry Berk
An age old story of how music can seduce you away from almost anything Barry Berk | The Bass Station Barry recorded the last few projects I did, and I have a very deep respect for his way with the song - simultaneously sensitive and certain. I was keen to find out more about what drew him away from film-making, and into the music. In this conversation, Barry chats about producing the Josie Field & Laurie Levine collaboration album, the challenge of getting heard in an ocean of new releases and how much the SHOW matters! He also gives a little bit of breakdown of what actually goes down in the studio when you make a record. This is a really accessible interview, whether you're a muso or simply a music lover. Barry Berk is a filmmaker and music producer. He creates his magic at The Bass Station in Johannesburg and has recorded some of the hottest indie musicians in South Africa. Outro music : 'Flutter By' by Door Peep, featuring Reign Afrika on vocals Used with permission of the right holder The Bass Station Website · Follow The Bass Station on Instagram · Follow The Bass Station on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, January 28, 2021
#011 Do What Feels Right | Conrad Jamneck
If you're an indie musician in SA, you know Conrad. Or you WANT TO! Conrad Jamneck (STRAB Festival / The Daisy Jones Bar at OMG) Independent artist over there, are you over-thinking things? Conrad Jamneck's got some perspective checks you may be keen to hear... Born into an entertainment family, and with a history in music as long as a life, Conrad is a Sound Engineer, Festival Organiser, Technical Director, Vibe Director, Venue Owner, Consultant, Driver, Psychologist, Assistant and Musician. In this weeks episode, we talk about the story behind the Fake Leather Blues Band, how less is more when it comes to jamming, painting the inside of your soul, a livestream from under a tree in Mozambique, and learning new ways to connect with your audience. Also, some super practical advice for artists! If you want to connect with Conrad conrad.strab@gmail.com Outro music mused with permission from rights holder. Follow Conrad on Instagram · Find Conrad on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Thu, January 21, 2021
#010 Self-Consciousness is The Enemy | Daniel Friedman
Did you miss him? Me too! Retired from comedy, here's what comes next... Daniel Friedman is a Joburg-based writer and performer. From 2010 to 2020 he performed under the alias Deep Fried Man, receiving a Comics Choice Award, a Standard Bank Ovation Award and 2 International Emmy nominations as a writer and cast member of the television show Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola. Before this, he self-released two albums as a singer-songwriter. He has also worked as a journalist, columnist and scriptwriter. In this week's episode, Daniel talks about retiring from comedy, making kids music, writing serious songs, collaborations, low self-esteem, robots taking over the world and mostly it's a LOT of music talk. In fact, if you were looking for some new music suggestions, this would be the episode to listen to! Outro Music : Bring on the Rain by High Society Music used with permission from the rights holder. Shotgun Story Spotify Playlist - Enjoy :-) · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Thu, January 14, 2021
#009 It's Not About You | AusTebza
Part of what forms a generations culture, music ought to stand for something An artist who is not defined by a single genre, AusTebza plays bass guitar and sings like a goddess. She's toured the world (from The Cape Town Jazz Festival and SXSW with HHP, to Australia with Wouter Kellerman), and over the course of her career has had a real influence on the music industry in SA. In today's episode we talk about music that changes peoples lives, making albums in your own language, and what the cover charge you pay to see a musician play live is actually for. It's full of goosebumps and reminders about the importance of why it matters that creators keep making their art. Outro music by AusTebza Used with permission from the rights holder. AusTebza on Instagram · AusTebza on Twitter · AusTebza on Facebook · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Tue, January 05, 2021
#008 It's Complicated | Matthew van der Want
Pragmatic, honest, funny, and even more inspiring because of its realness. “If you make somebody feel something, you've kind of succeeded, unless they feel that they hate you.” – Matthew Van der Want In this week's episode, I chat to South African singer, songwriter and legend, Matthew Van der Want. He talks about his complicated relationship with success, living in a constant state of writers block, being disillusioned, collaborating with Chris Letcher, and how music is a fantastic way to communicate emotion. This is one of my favourite episodes. Outro music : Times Up 2 - Matthew Van der Want with Chris Letcher, Victoria Hume, Andrew Joseph and Nic Bjorkman Music used with permission from the rights holder Matthew van der Want on Twitter · Matthew van der Want on Bandcamp · WATCH van der Want / Letcher - Lockdown Live · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, December 30, 2020
#007 The Spirit of Collaboration | Tubatsi Mpho Moloi (Urban Village)
Ready to stretch into the possibilities of your creative purpose? This conversation will make you feel like anything and everything is possible. Tubatsi Mpho Moloi is a South African born singer songwriter influenced by the sounds of blues, jazz, rock and African folk music. His music asks the audience to be open-minded and exploratory as he brings a collaboration of sound and genre in creating an authentic fusion folk sound. Tubatsi talks freedom and collaboration, learning the rules to break the rules, using your gifts, creating multiple streams of income within the creative industries and of a world that doesn’t have to be this sad. Outro music : Basimanyana - Tubatsi Mpho Moloi Used with permission from rights holder. Tubatsi Mpho Moloi on Instagram · Tubatsi Mpho Moloi on Facebook · Urban Village on Instagram · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Wed, December 23, 2020
#006 People inspire me. I love people | Gareth Wilson
Gareth Wilson (Southern Gypsey Queen | Oppikoppi Booker | Romeos) An open-hearted, multi-angle take on the music industry. So many stories! Gareth Wilson affectionately known as G Willy in the South African music scene is known best known as the Oppikoppi booker, SGQ front-man and owner of several venues and restaurants like Good Luck Bar and Romeos. In today's interview, we talk about what inspires him, the value of learning to play music in a church band, the story behind Southern Gypsey Queen, booking for Oppikoppi, the difference between verse people, chorus people and bridge people, and the reason his guitar is gathering dust. The truth is that he has done almost every music industry job out there and nothing has ever been to small for him. Whenever he hosts a major event he still believes it to be unlucky if he doesn't buy the first ticket or hand out the first 100 flyers. "If it weren't for music I would still be selling slip slops in a surf shop in the Eastern Cape." Outro music (Used with permission from rights holder) "Be The Lion" by Southern Gypsey Queen, Black Cat Bones and Tidal Waves. (A one take improv version) Gareth on Instagram · Gareth on Facebook · Buy Shotgun Xmas · Listen to the Shotgun Story Spotify playlist (a playlist of tracks by - and recommended / mentioned by - the artists interviewed on the show) · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Tue, December 15, 2020
#005 Still a magic in music | Jay Bones
The commercial route is not necessary for the success of a band. It's been a long while since I laughed so hard... In this honest and hilarious interview, Jay talks about the highlights of his career in music, rehearsing as a solo artist, touring with a band, songwriting, and when good things come from bad. Jay Bones is a songwriter. Nostalgic modernists, disillusioned dreamers & relaxed workaholics, will find moments of clarity in his crafted songs. There is some crooner, a bit of country and some folk punk. He is also the singer & guitarist from Fuzigish & Rambling Bones. Connect with Jay Bones jp@digitalbone.co.za Outro music : 'Play' by Rambling Jay Bones Used with permission of the rights holder Have you checked out the Shotgun Story Spotify Playlist yet? It's a playlist of tracks by - and recommended / mentioned by - the artists appearing on the show. Jay Bones on Instagram · Shotgun Tori's 'Shotgun Xmas' on Bandcamp · Shotgun Story Spotify Playlist · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Wed, December 09, 2020
#004 The Will & Want to Express | Lucy Kruger
There is poetry in every cell of Lucy's body. What a beautiful interview! One of my dearest friends and favourite collaborators, Lucy Kruger joins us from Berlin for this episode. She speaks of how music strings memories together, being well behaved, music as a career, and the importance of consistency in engaging with yourself, the world and your craft. Lucy Kruger is a musician from Cape Town, South Africa, who now lives in Berlin. Her solo performance focuses on the bare bones of the songs, a slow burning psychedelic folk that is both intimate and ambient. In September 2019 she signed with independent German label Unique Records and Schubert Publishing to release her second full length album, Sleeping Tapes for Some Girls, a follow up to her debut release, Summer’s Not That Simple. ‘Though the album is called Sleeping Tapes for Some Girls, the music feels like lullabies for Nick Drake, as Lucy treads the same deep waters as the singer from the late 60s and early 70s, utilizing her voice and guitar to delicate effect—where the volume is performed in a soft tactile caress of fingers on skin or fretboard.’ - Post-Punk. Lucy is currently working on her next album. Outro music : 'Digging a Hole' by Lucy Kruger (Music used with permission of the rights holder) #LucyKruger #ShotgunStory #ShotgunTori #IndieFolk #IndependentMusicians #Consistency #Connection #Magic #Music #Berlin #Collaboration #Songwriting #SingerSongwriter #MedicineBoy #LucyKrugerAndTheLostBoys" Lucy Kruger & the Lost Boys on Instagram · Lucy Kruger & the Lost Boys on Facebook · Be a part of Lucy's Patreon community for weekly musical delights! · To download my new Christmas EP · For the Shotgun Story Spotify playlist · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Tue, December 01, 2020
#003 Follow your heart | Kwela (Kwani Experience)
To the question 'Why music?' Kwela answers, 'Why life?' In this episode I chat to Kwela - poet, rapper, producer and vocalist from internationally renowned cult band Kwani Experience. We talk about uncomplicated relationships with your medium, how learning to rap helped him with his vocabulary, touring the world, using the voice as a texture in recordings, how being a dad has impacted his career, and forays into creating solo material (and recording it in his own studio!) The is also the episode where Kwela suggests starting the Shotgun Story Spotify playlist (and adds to it beautifully...) Outro music : Shooting Star by Kwela (used with permission from rights holder) Kwela on Insta · Kwela on Bandcamp · Kwani Experience on Bandcamp · Spotify Playlist · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Tue, November 24, 2020
#002 All together now! | Lloyd-Anthony Smith
Tales of colabs and the rich SA music scene from resident impresario at Nirox This episode features Lloyd-Anthony Smith, resident impresario from Nirox Sculpture Park and Die Ou Pastorie. A cheerleader for music and arts in South Africa, Lloyd loves the music in this country more than anyone I've ever met. We talk about the richness of the musical landscape here, the story behind Retrofest, the power of collaboration and creating platforms for musicians who SHOULD be seen and heard. He also has some great advice for indie artists, and his music suggestions have made the Shotgun Story Spotify playlist at least as long as a double-sided A4 page. Outro music : A recording of a song made at NIROX by Dayne Rothbletz and Tubatsi Mpho Moloi (used with permission of the rights holders) Check out our Spotify Playlist of music suggestions, influences and wish list collaborators from guests featured on the show. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5Cegb8izNa58LAp0q5wPLn Nirox Sculpture Park · Die Ou Pastorie · Spotify Playlist · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta
Fri, November 20, 2020
#001 Stay Clear | ANDRA
Born an artist, music was the language ANDRA was given to express that Are you one of the lucky ones who know what you were born for? ANDRA is. And you can hear it in every note of the music she makes. In today’s episode I chat to Namibian-born independent, internationally recognized singer-songwriter ANDRA. We talk songwriting, support systems, creating during a lockdown, and how to know whether you’re on the right path. ANDRA is a classically trained guitarist, studied music and theology in Pretoria and Stellenbosch, but gave that all up to focus on a full time career in music and songwriting. She has received a Standard Bank Ovation award for her performances at the National Arts festival in Grahamstown and has performed at all the major festivals in Southern Africa, like Oppikoppi, Splashy Fen, Park Acoustics, STRAB (Mozambique), Aardklop and Innibos. ANDRA independently recorded three original albums that have all received worldwide praise since 2007 and firmly claimed her respected spot in the underground music scene of unsigned artists. She has toured through Europe with her music, and has shared the stage with world renowned artists like Dan Patlansky, Anton Goosen, Jan Blohm, Karen Zoid, Sam Bettens (EU/USA), Terra Naomi (USA), Nibs van der Spuy (Portugal), Riku Latti, Koos Kombuis, Mathys Roets and Crimson House, to name but a few. Her latest album 'A Sound or Something More' took the number one spot on the iTunes Top100 singer/songwriters chart within the first few days of its release. 'She is phenomenal in her interpretation of a variety of themes and styles. Her voice is majestic and her presence hypnotic.' – Pinto Ferreira, Pretoria News Music at the end of the episode 'Cockroach' by Andra Cilliers from the album 'Secrets and Skeletons ... notes from a desert café' Andra's Website · Andra on Facebook · Andra on Insta · website · Facebook · Twitter · insta · Spotify Playlist
Trailer · Thu, November 05, 2020
#000 Trailer | Welcome
Welcome to Shotgun Story The podcast that has conversations with Indie creators about music, meaning and the point of it all, so that you may be inspired by the journeys of other artists who are doing it for themselves and maybe gain a little more understanding as to why it matters quite so much that you keep creating. Website · Facebook · Twitter · Insta · Spotify Playlist
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