Jazzathon 2026 artists announced 9-11 Jan

The 2026 Cape Town Jazzathon will take place from January 9-11 at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre, featuring acts like Hassan'Adas, Julius May, and Women Unite. This free event celebrates its 29th anniversary, inviting everyone to enjoy diverse musical performances and the vibrant atmosphere of Cape Town.

Tim Parr for the Business of Entertainment on Thursday 8 January 2026

The first 2026 episode of CapeTalk's Business of Entertainment features Tim Parr discussing his musical career. Starting with the band Baxtop, he gained fame in the 70s, later forming Ella Mental in the 80s. Known for his soulful guitar playing and distinct voice, Parr continues to influence the South African music scene.

Podcasts to listen to re: The Business of Entertainment

Discover great podcasts to enhance your career, available on Spotify. "On the Couch with MEX" features 30-minute, standalone conversations, with episodes every Thursday at 9 PM. Notable guests include CEOs, musicians, and industry experts, providing valuable insights and thoughts for implementation in your professional journey.

THE CAPE TOWN JAZZATHON 2026 โ€“ A SUMMER SHOWCASE OF SOUND, CULTURE & COMMUNITY

The Cape Town Jazzathon returns to the V&A Waterfront from 9โ€“11 January 2026, marking its 29th anniversary with free entry. The festival showcases diverse talent, spanning various genres, and promises three days of vibrant performances. Funded by local arts departments, it invites Capetonians to celebrate their music culture together.

Sipho โ€œHotstixโ€ Mabuse performs LIVE at the Umuzi Theatre on 25 January 2026

Sipho โ€œHotstixโ€ Mabuse will perform at Umuzi Teater, celebrating his influential career in South African music. Known for his Afri-Soul sound, he inspires with classics and mentorship across generations. At 70, he enriches the cultural landscape, emphasizing music's vital role in social consciousness and cohesion. Tickets are available online.

A Thank You to CapeTalk Listeners & Our Exceptional Guests on The Business of Entertainment

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk offers insightful conversations with esteemed guests from various creative industries, focusing on the business aspects of their careers. Hosted by Martin Myers, the show airs Thursdays at 21:00 and includes rebroadcasts on Sundays. It will pause during the holidays, returning on 8 January 2026.

Topics and running order for two-day IP & Music Industry Workshop George High School on 12 & 13 December

George High School is hosting a FREE two-day IP & Music Industry Workshop on December 12-13 for creatives in the Western Cape. Attendees can gain insights into intellectual property protection, brand positioning, and networking opportunities. Limited seats are available, so register early to enhance your creative career.

Two powerhouse speakers from the George Herald added to bill for FREE, two-day IP & Music Industry Workshop

George creatives are invited to a free two-day IP & Music Industry Workshop at George High School on December 12-13. Attendees will gain insights from industry leaders Lizette da Silva and Beatrice Esterhuysen, covering journalism, digital strategy, and creative production. This opportunity fosters skill development, networking, and knowledge on protecting creative work.

Jon Savage speaks about Is it too late to start a podcast?

Jon Savage, a prominent figure in Africa's podcasting industry and founder of the Africa Podcast Network, joined Martin Myers on CapeTalk to discuss the podcasting landscape. They explored whether it's too late to start a podcast, the growth opportunities in the market, and the evolving creator economy, offering valuable insights for creators and media professionals.

Seven Creative speakers Unite in George for FREE Two-Day IP & Music Industry Workshop

On 12-13 December, George High School will host a free workshop for creatives in the Western Cape, featuring industry leaders sharing insights on building sustainable careers. Attendees will learn about IP, monetization, and networking opportunities, with presentations from experts like Craig Parks and Germaine Leonard, ensuring practical guidance for all participants.

Andy Hoyle’s vibey new Christmas song, โ€œHo-Ho-Ho” out now

Andy Hoyle, a Cape Town-based guitarist and songwriter, has been creating music since the mid-eighties. His latest Christmas track, "Ho-Ho-Ho," celebrates the magic of Santa and is available on digital platforms. Known for his storytelling and emotive songs, he continues to inspire positivity through music while maintaining empathic authenticity.

Sipho โ€œHotstixโ€ Mabuse Live @ Untitled Basement โ€” A Night of Timeless Groove & Soul 27th Nov

Sipho โ€œHotstixโ€ Mabuse will perform live at the Untitled Basement in Johannesburg on 27 November 2025. This intimate Afro-Jazz event highlights his five-decade legacy, blending rhythm, culture, and soulful melodies. Attendees can expect a vibrant celebration of music and storytelling, promising an unforgettable night with a South African icon.

โ€œThe Business of Entertainmentโ€ โ€“ Thursday at 9PM on CapeTalk with Dr Sheldon Rocha Leal

This Thursday at 9PM, CapeTalk's The Business of Entertainment features Dr. Sheldon Rocha Leal, an expert in South Africa's creative and music education fields. He will discuss vital topics for artists and entrepreneurs, drawing on his extensive experience and roles in music education. Don't miss this insightful conversation on creativity's future.

OP-ED Our sector does not lack imagination

SACOConf2025 highlighted the urgent need for action in South Africa's creative sector, emphasizing that discussions alone are insufficient. Artists must demand specific outcomes like time-bound decisions, transparent criteria, and standardized contracts. The governance system must be reformed to facilitate idea implementation, ensuring accountability and efficiency for artists seeking meaningful change.

THANK YOU for Making #MEX25 Unforgettable

The #MEX25 summit celebrated 15 years of Music Exchange's impact on South Africa's creative industry, hosting influential speakers who discussed topics like AI and monetization. Attendees highlighted the importance of preparation and collaboration. MEX continues to support the creative community with year-round workshops and initiatives, nurturing talent and encouraging growth.

Athi Umgido to Speak on African Kulture Panel at Music Exchange #MEX25

Athi Umgido, a renowned DJ and producer from South Africa, will speak at the Africa Kulture Panel during Music Exchange 2025. Known for his innovative fusion of Afro-House and electro, Athi has achieved international acclaim, influenced the music scene, and nurtured young talent through BFM Records. His international performances highlight Africa's evolving cultural impact.

Head of International Relations at The MLC Indi Chawla, to Deliver Keynote at Music Exchange #MEX25

Indi Chawla, Head of International Relations at The MLC, will keynote Music Exchange 2025 in Cape Town, discussing global music rights collaboration with SAMROโ€™s Karabo Senna, emphasizing transparency and fair remuneration for creators.

Speakers and topics for Music Exchange on 25th October

The Global Verse: Music & Culture Summit (MEX25) in Cape Town on 25 October 2025 celebrates 15 years of MEX, offering a day of innovative discussions and insights for creatives. Hosted by DJ Eazy, it features industry leaders discussing music, technology, and monetization strategies to enhance South Africa's creative economy.

Music Exchange Partners with African Kulture to Spotlight the Township Music Scene

Cape Town will host the MEX25 Global Verse: Music & Culture Summit on October 25, 2025, highlighting the township music scene. Music Exchange partners with African Kulture to empower creatives and drive cultural entrepreneurship. The summit will feature sessions on innovation, inclusion, and emerging artists, amplifying voices from underrepresented communities.

Lake of Stars Festival Unveils 2025 Line-Up and Programme 17โ€“19 October 2025

Dates: 17โ€“19 October 2025 | Location: Nkhotakota, Malawi #LakeOfStars2025 #FromNkhotakotaToTheWorld With just one week to go, excitement is building as the Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival 2025 announces its official line-up and full programme for this year's much-anticipated return to the lakeshore. Taking place on the beautiful beaches of Nkhotakota this October, the festival... Continue Reading →

Up ↑