Explore every episode of the podcast On the Couch with MEX

We had the brilliant Tim Parr in conversation with me on CapeTalk on Thursday, 15th January at 9 pm, chatting about his musical journey.

Tim Parr first came to national prominence in the southern-rock blues band Baxtop, where he shared guitar duties with Larry Amos in the Joburg club scene of 1976. Rising quickly to the top of the national circuit and winning the SABC battle of the bands, they recorded “Work it Out” for Warner Brothers in 1979, which remains an enduring SA classic.

Parr then formed Ella Mental with Heather Mac, which was one of the iconic 80’s bands to have a string of radio hits in South Africa, playing many of the country's top festivals.

The common thread throughout all these projects has been Tim Parr’s expressive and soulful guitar playing, and unlike many guitarists, his rhythm and textural playing is as distinctive as his unmistakable voice.

We have the brilliant Tim Parr in conversation, chatting about his musical journey with me.

Tim Parr first came to national prominence in the southern-rock blues band Baxtop, where he shared guitar duties with Larry Amos in the Joburg club scene of 1976.

Rising quickly to the top of the national circuit and winning the SABC battle of the bands, they recorded “Work it Out” for Warner Brothers in 1979, which remains an enduring SA classic.

Parr then formed Ella Mental with Heather Mac, which was one of the iconic 80’s bands to have a string of radio hits in South Africa, playing many of the country's top festivals.

LESSONS FROM MY FATHER – A celebration of fatherhood

My good friend Steve Anderson has his book out, published by Melinda Ferguson – “Lessons From My Father.”

We discussed why the work is essential.

I am delighted that I managed to get my dear friend Sipho Mabuse “Hotstix “ into the book, as well as Siphokazi Jonas.

This has been a labour of love and dedication for Steve - Please enjoy.

A Journey of Change, Creativity & Purpose with Hedley Manicom who was in studio on Thursday, 11 December at Cape Talk.
The  Business of Entertainment welcomed Hedley Manicom, co-owner of Owl’s Rest Farm, for a compelling conversation about transformation, creativity, and the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Hedley Manicom, A Journey of Change, Creativity and Purpose on the Business of Entertainment. The Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk welcomed Hedley Manicom, co-owner of Owl’s Rest Farm, for a compelling conversation about transformation, creativity, and the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

What began as a “good little business” quickly evolved, under their leadership, into a destination brand known for handcrafted products, warm hospitality, and a distinctive creative signature.

During the interview, Hedley discussed  central questions like :
Why leave a major JSE-listed corporation?

In the conversation, Hedley explores themes that drive both the entertainment and entrepreneurial journeys.

Part 2 of my conversation with Jon Savage from the Cape Talk Show, the Business of Entertainment.

Is it too late to start podcasting?

Show producer - Barry Maré

Jon Savage joined Cape Talk’s The Business of Entertainment with host Martin Myers, exploring the Big Question: Is It Too Late to Start Podcasting?

Jon Savage is  a trailblazing media entrepreneur. His work is reshaping how creators build, scale, and own their futures.

Savage is  the founder of The Africa Podcast Network, the continent’s largest podcast network with 41% market share, and it is a central player in the growth of digital audio across Africa.

The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk welcomed a powerhouse guest — Dr Sheldon Rocha Leal, a leading voice in South Africa’s creative and music education sectors.

Dr. Leal unpacked “The DIY Musician, Portfolio Careers, Creative Districts, and Innovations in the Creative Industries” — a must-listen discussion for artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about the evolving creative economy.

Currently, the Academic Registrar at the Academy of Sound Engineering in Johannesburg, Dr Lea, brings decades of experience across music education, industry leadership, and curriculum innovation.

Fresh off-air, Indi Chawla, Head of International Relations at The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC), discusses the business of entertainment, the future of music rights, and how global licensing frameworks are reshaping value for creators.

Now based in London, Chawla leads international strategy for the MLC — the U.S. digital mechanical rights organisation responsible for collecting and distributing royalties from digital music services to songwriters, composers, and publishers.

Special thanks to Karabo Senna for setting this up.

The humble, gracious, Arthur Goldstuck (CEO, World Wide Worx, Editor-in-Chief, Gadget, Columnist, Sunday Times), was our keynote speaker at the 15th edition of Music Exchange (MEX25) last weekend.

While he was in town, he also made time to visit the BOE studio @capetalk to discuss his latest book, which unpacks making complex issues exciting and understandable in our AI-driven world.

What a stunning exclusive interview on Cape Talk with Robin S. She is  The Queen of Club Anthems.

Hailing from Queens, New York, Robin Stone, better known as Robin S, burst onto the global stage in the early 1990s with her house anthem “Show Me Love”.  

Special thanks to Paris Toon and Andy Heynes for making this  conversation happen. 

Part 2 of my conversation with DJ Eazy from the Cape Talk show, The Business of Entertainment (BOE).

* DJ Eazy is also the host of the 15th edition of Music Exchange next week on 25th October, 2025.

Show producer - Barry Maré.

How does that old saying go? People who say it can't be done need to stop interrupting those who are doing it.

Celebrated South African DJ and radio producer DJ Eazy was my featured guest on The Business of Entertainment on Thursday night, 9 October at 9 PM.

The conversation with Martin Myers explored the evolution of South Africa’s music industry, the business behind the beats, and DJ Eazy’s remarkable journey through hip hop, R&B, and electronic music.

In addition to his CapeTalk appearance, DJ Eazy will host Music Exchange, now in its 15th year (#MEX25), on 25 October.

This event, South Africa’s leading independent music, film, and entertainment conference, brings together industry leaders to share insights and opportunities for collaboration.

Annabell Lebethe is the CEO of SAMRO (The Southern African Music Rights Organisation).

She was in the studio at Cape Talk on Thursday, 2 October, just after 9:00 p.m., for a conversation on the Business of Entertainment with Martin Myers.

This is the second part of an engaging discussion with Annabell, and we do talk about the elephant in the room.
As listener Naren Sewpaul remarked after last week's discussion with Annabell: “Your approach was professional, and conversationally engaging. It brought out the essence of what the audience needed to hear. Most of all, Annabell felt comfortable speaking openly and honestly. I enjoyed the conversation and am looking forward to next Thursday.”

Please enjoy.

The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) has Annabell Lebethe as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

She was in Studio at Cape Talk on Thursday 25 September just after 9pm on the Business of Entertainment in conversation with Martin Myers.

Do enjoy the wonderful discussion about SAMRO with Annabell.

Prior to this, Annabell served as CEO of Ditsong Museums of South Africa, a group of eight museums that falls under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

She also previously held the position of interim CEO of the Performing Arts Centre of the Free State, CEO of the Market Theatre Foundation and CEO of the National Arts Council, in addition to several other leadership roles during her career.

Renowned Artist Jill Trappler Featured on The Business of Entertainment, CapeTalk. This is part two of our conversation with Jill.

From the Drakensberg mountains to Johannesburg’s cultural ferment of the 1970s, and Cape Town’s dynamic arts scene today, Trappler’s journey has shaped a practice rooted in interaction, education, and creative exchange.

Jill lives by a motto inspired by the wisdom of trees: “Stand tall and proud, go out on a limb, remember your roots, drink plenty of water, be content with your natural beauty, and enjoy the view.”

This philosophy flows through her work and community initiatives, offering listeners a rare opportunity to hear from an artist whose life and practice embody resilience, beauty, and grounded creativity.

Cape Town-based artist and cultural activist Jill Trappler was  in studio on The Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk  on what is, officially our 200th podcast of On the Couch.

With a career spanning more than three decades, Trappler is celebrated not only for her paintings and solo exhibitions but also for her groundbreaking contributions to South Africa’s arts community.

As a painter, she explores texture, mark-making, and colour with a sensitivity informed by her background as a weaver and spinner. Her work, shown nationally and internationally, reflects her immersion in both South Africa’s complex social landscape and its natural environments.

Trappler has been at the heart of transformative creative initiatives since the 1980s. She co-founded Thupelo and Greatmore Studios, was a key member of the Bag Factory in Johannesburg, and has served on the boards of the AVA Gallery and the National Arts Council.

Deeply committed to community upliftment, she established the Philani Weaving Project and Intle Cooperative in Khayelitsha and Philippi, while also nurturing creative healing through the Valkenberg Art Studio initiative.

Her projects are grounded in an ethos of collaboration and skill-sharing, creating spaces where art becomes a tool for empowerment, confidence building, and social cohesion.

Known for her patience and ability to work across languages and generations, Trappler has helped cultivate employment opportunities and creative development throughout the Cape Peninsula.

From the Drakensberg mountains to Johannesburg’s cultural ferment of the 1970s, and Cape Town’s dynamic arts scene today, Trappler’s journey has shaped a practice rooted in interaction, education, and creative exchange.

https://www.jilltrappler.co.za 

Part two of my interview on BOE, CapeTalk on Thursday, 5 September, 2025, with Dan Shout.

From sharing global stages with the legendary Johnny Clegg for seven years, performing at festivals like the Montreal Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and even Bastille Day in Paris, saxophonist Dan Shout has built a career defined by versatility and excellence.

Dan Shout on The Business of Entertainment – on CapeTalk

From sharing global stages with the legendary Johnny Clegg for seven years, to performing at festivals like the Montreal Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and even Bastille Day in Paris, saxophonist Dan Shout has built a career defined by versatility and excellence.

Shout has played with South Africa’s finest – from Winston Mankunku Ngozi to the Cape Town Jazz Orchestra – and collaborated with international icons such as Maria Schneider, Steve Turré, and Nils Landgren.

This is the stunning second episode with Relate CEO, Dalit Shekel, a fantastic and engaging conversation.

Dalit, through Relate Bracelets is turning accessories into agents of change.

Relate has raised over R83 million for causes in health, education, conservation, and community upliftment, selling more than 4.5 million bracelets worldwide.

With 25 years’ experience across corporate, startups, and nonprofits, Dalit blends sharp strategy with a passion for social impact.

Under her leadership, Relate is pioneering “Social Retail” - where every bracelet empowers township seniors and young crafters while driving global change.

Dalit Shekel is the CEO of Relate Bracelets, the South African social enterprise turning accessories into agents of change.

Relate has raised over R83 million for causes in health, education, conservation, and community upliftment — all through the sale of over 4.5 million bracelets worldwide.

With 25+ years’ experience spanning corporate, startup, and nonprofit sectors, Dalit blends sharp business acumen with a deep commitment to social impact.

Jason Curtis dives deeper into what it really takes to succeed as an indie artist in today’s cluttered entertainment landscape.

From building super fans to selling physical music in a streaming world, it’s a no-fluff look at how smart strategy and authentic storytelling can drive real success.

The Business of Entertainment on Thursday at 9PM on CapeTalk hosted creative strategist Jason Curtis, diving into the realities of building an indie music career in today’s fast-moving digital world.

From Super Fans to vinyl comebacks, Jason explores what’s really changed in music—and what hasn’t.

Hear how bands like The Gathering/The Outsiders built a following from scratch, pressing their own vinyl and successfully selling them to Super Fans.

“You don’t need millions,” says Jason. “You need 100 true fans living in your reality to remain commercially viable."

Biokineticist Ayden Smith joins the CapeTalk airwaves for a sharp 30-minute conversation about health, longevity, and how performers can stay fit and sharp well into their 70s and beyond.

We also discuss the presenters personal health insights following his heart attack on February 15. The role of the “second heart”

Simple ways to stay active even if you’re editing video or making music at a desk all day.

Pitfalls to avoid.

How to get stage-fit at any age.

Ayden brings a deep background in sports science, having worked with professional athletes and spoken at major youth sports summits.

But this conversation is not just about sport—it is about life on stage and how to stay strong behind the mic, guitar, or drum kit

Calling all musicians, producers, and creatives in South Africa’s entertainment industry.

Don’t miss listening to Jarrod Aston from the conversation on CapeTalk, as he dives into "The Business of Entertainment"—an essential conversation for every artist serious about their career.Jarrod, music industry veteran and founder of Fluid Media Entertainment, will unpack the crucial role of RadioMonitor and how it helps artists track airplay and unlock untapped revenue streams.

Many local musicians remain unaware of the tools and income available to them through proper monitoring and licensing. 

This discussion is your key to understanding airplay data, performance royalties, and how to monetize your music more effectively.

If you’re an artist looking to take control of your earnings and your brand, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss.

The Business of Entertainment  on Cape Talk  features legendary guest Jarrod Aston  Assenheim — a powerhouse in South Africa’s music and entertainment industries.

With a career spanning over 38 years, Jarrod  Aston Assenheim is not only a music entrepreneur but a visionary in digital media and rights management. 

He brings a wealth of knowledge from his early days as a celebrated musician to his current pioneering work in music technology and data analytics.

Jarrod’s roots in music trace back to the 1980s when he was the lead vocalist and drummer for iconic South African pop groups like Face to Face, Chess, and Cinema. After a successful run touring nationally and internationally until 1997, he transitioned into the business side of music — and never looked back.

As founder and former MD of Fluid Media Entertainment, Jarrod was instrumental in bringing world-class artists like Dionne Warwick, Maxwell, Vanessa Mae, Jonathan Butler, Foreigner, Village People, and many more to African stages. His passion for bridging global and local talent made Fluid Media a household name in concert production.

In 2015, he launched Radiomonitor South Africa, part of the UK-based media monitoring group, helping transform how music airplay is tracked across thousands of radio and TV stations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.

Today, Jarrod leads Audlytics, a cutting-edge platform focused on music technology, rights management, and innovative revenue streams for artists and stakeholders in the music value chain.

The Business of Entertainment Explores the Future of Fundraising with Thundafund CEO Erica Schofield

Thursday Night | 9PM | CapeTalk 567AM

CapeTalk’s The Business of Entertainment, hosted by Martin Myers, dives into the dynamic world of creative funding this Thursday at 9PM. 

In Part 2 of a compelling conversation, Myers sits down with Erica Schofield, CEO of Thundafund, to discuss the game-changing launch of "Crowdfunding for Non-profits – A Guide to Activating Support Networks", now available 

This isn’t your typical fundraising manual. 

Co-authored by fundraising consultant Jill Ritchie and crowdfunding expert Erica Schofield, this first-of-its-kind South African guide delivers practical tools, case studies, and smart insights rooted in behavioural science—all designed to help non-profits, creatives, and everyday changemakers turn their communities into funding powerhouses.

Schofield, a crowdfunding veteran with campaigns across arts, environment, and micro-enterprises, brings her wealth of experience to the conversation. “Crowdfunding is about more than money,” she says. “It’s about sparking belief, building community, and co-creating impact.”

Whether you're an NGO, an artist, or an individual looking to raise funds for medical, education, or personal needs, this guide has you covered—with step-by-step checklists and real-world strategies that work.

As fundraising specialist Melanie Jackson puts it: “This is an invaluable guide to the brave new world of crowdfunding—whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer.”

Listen to  this powerful and practical conversation from Thursday night at 9PM on CapeTalk.

Discover how you can fund your creative or non-profit mission by tapping into the crowd.

#TheBusinessOfEntertainment | #Thundafund | #CrowdfundingForChange

An exclusive interview with Erica Schofield, CEO of Thundafund, Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform.

The conversation focuses on the launch of a new and much-needed resource for the South African fundraising and creative sector:Crowdfunding for Non-profits – A Guide to Activating Support Networks, now officially available on the market.

Please enjoy.

Mike Horne Returns to CapeTalk — Do listen to Part 2 of this compelling conversation.

He’s performed with international icons, collaborated with South African legends, and built a career that spans continents.

Catch acclaimed session drummer and producer Mike MIKE HORNE from CapeTalk’s #BusinessofEntertainment that airs every Thursday at 9pm.

From Cape Town to London.

Mike’s career spans decades of top-tier performances and recordings with South Africa’s and the world’s most celebrated artists.

Tune in for insight into his journey and the business behind the beat.

Show producer: Barry Maré

Lake of Stars! A movement, a celebration of who we are as Malawians, and how our roots run deep through rhythm, folklore, and unity.

On Cape Talk on Thurs 5th June we spoke to Zahir Elias from The Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival which will be held from October 17th to 19th, 2025.

I met Zahir at the African Music Conference (where we both sat on panels ) in Lusaka at the end of May, and I saw a wonderful conversation opportunity that could unfold about this unique African festival.

Show producer: The fantastic Barry Maré

Thank you for all you did for the music industry in South Africa and in particular Cape Town. 

As founder of Music Exchange it was a delight to always host you Rashid at the  conference.

This is the our tribute to you which was aired on Cape Talk and 702  yesterday 4 June 2025Rest in Peace Rashid .

Enjoy this, part two of a much bigger conversation we all need to hear.

With a background in corporate law at one of South Africa’s big five law firms, Guy McLeod joined the firm in 2002, and seeing an opportunity of an under-serviced sector, began practising in the broader fields of media, entertainment, advertising and sport.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the legal and business end of the entertainment industry and his involvement in the production and/or financing of more than 200 projects as well as numerous advertising, talent, sports and sponsorship deals,

Guy is in a unique position to offer quick and comprehensive advice on advertising campaigns, talent, sports, television, development, production, financing and distribution. Guy’s clients include global financing institutions active in film and television financing, studios, streamers, production companies, advertising and sports companies as well as some well-known talent

In our latest episode we welcome Guy Macleod, one of the directors of Irish MacLeod Inc., talks about US tariffs, Trump, movies, rebates, and more.

The show first aired at 9pm on CapeTalk #BusinessOfEntertainment

Guy has numerous film and television credits to his name including the Oscar-nominated film Invictus.

He is highly regarded both locally and internationally as South Africa's leading entertainment lawyer and has been instrumental in securing production work for his clients to the tune of three billion rand, and counting.

More with Marcus Brewster, who reached celebrity status in 2001 as a judge on the first season of the TV show Pop Idol, but was already a name in music promotion since the mid-80s as a record company man where he was International Promotions Manager for EMI (Queen, Tina Turner, Roxette, etc.).

Marcus Joined me on CapeTalk on Thursday 15th May at 9pm on the Business of Entertainment to talk business and working on a global scale based in Malta.

Within a decade, he was chairman of his own full service public relations and managed communication services firm whose clients included BASA (Business Arts South Africa), Louis Vuitton, SAP and Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

During the oughts, his PR company was the most awarded in Africa receiving gongs in 2010 for both FinWeek AdReview PR Consultancy of the Year and Global PR Consultancy of the Year.

Relocating to Malta in 2017, Brewster pivoted to writing his debut novel, a Mystery/Thriller titled “The Make-Up Artist” which he describes as “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” meets “Knives Out”.

Over the past seven years, Brewster has done a deep dive into the international publishing industry to understand the forces that propel some books to the top of the New York Times bestseller list, and the challenges authors face in getting their books out there.

His savvy has earned him the nickname The Agent Whisperer, a nod to the preferred path to publication of most writers seeking a Big Five deal.

The opener of “The Make-Up Artist”, Marcus’s whodunnit, was selected by story coach and former agent Mary Kole for inclusion in “Writing Irresistible First Pages” published in the USA last month.

Marcus Brewster reached celebrity status in 2001 as a judge on the first season of the TV show Pop Idol, but was already a name in music promotion since the mid-80s as a record company man where he was International Promotions Manager for EMI (Queen, Tina Turner, Roxette, etc.).

Marcus joined me on CapeTalk on Thursday 8th May at 9pm on the Business of Entertainment to talk business and working on a global scale based out of Malta.

Within a decade, he was chairman of his own full service public relations and managed communication services firm whose clients included BASA (Business Arts South Africa), Louis Vuitton, SAP and Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

During the oughts, his PR company was the most awarded in Africa receiving gongs in 2010 for both FinWeek AdReview PR Consultancy of the Year and Global PR Consultancy of the Year.

Relocating to Malta in 2017, Brewster pivoted to writing his debut novel, a Mystery/Thriller titled “The Make-Up Artist” which he describes as “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” meets “Knives Out”.

Over the past seven years, Brewster has done a deep dive into the international publishing industry to understand the forces that propel some books to the top of the New York Times bestseller list, and the challenges authors face in getting their books out there.

My special guest on Thursday night at 9pm on the Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk was Paris Toon, who is the Billboard charting award-winning lyricist and musical enigma behind Mothers Favorite Child

He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.

Paris started out as a hip-hop producer and has done production and remix work for many platinum selling projects during his career.

His influences range from Prince, Quincy Jones, Sly Stone, Rakim, Omar, Bob Marley, Herbie Hancock and the Head Hunters.

These influences make themselves evident in his compositions and many of the lyrics he writes. As newer artists came about, Paris’s inspiration grew in even broader directions while still holding firmly to the musical pioneers from the past.

His writing style has the genres of R&B/Soul, Funk, Jazz, Dance, Hip Hop and Rock to a level unfamiliar to most, provoking intense curiosity and appreciation for the “next phase of music.

With these inspirational forces embedded in his spirit, Paris Toon has set out on the mission to push Mothers Favorite Child to the front lines.

Paris is the binding force of Mothers Favorite Child. His Passion and “full speed ahead” attitude make it possible for those who work with him to focus on the most important thing; the song. Whether it’s music, art, fashion or business, Mothers Favorite Child is armed with everything it needs to propel honesty, raw and a holistic environment to to the masses.

Show producer - Barry Maré

Artwork - Casey Barclay

My special guest this week on the Business of Entertainment on Cape Talk is Paris Toon, the Billboard charting award-winning lyricist and musical enigma behind Mother's Favorite Child.

(Paris was also a keynote speaker at Music Exchange #MEX24 in November 2024 )

He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.

Paris started out as a hip-hop producer and has done production and remix work for many platinum selling projects during his career.

His influences range from Prince, Quincy Jones, Sly Stone, Rakim, Omar, Bob Marley, Herbie Hancock and the Head Hunters.

These influences make themselves evident in his compositions and many of the lyrics he writes. As newer artists came about, Paris’s inspiration grew in even broader directions while still holding firmly to the musical pioneers from the past.

His writing style has the genres of R&B/Soul, Funk, Jazz, Dance, Hip Hop and Rock to a level unfamiliar to most, provoking intense curiosity and appreciation for the “next phase of music”.

With these inspirational forces embedded in his spirit, Paris Toon has set out on the mission to push Mothers Favorite Child to the front lines.

Paris is the binding force of Mother's Favorite Child. His Passion and “full speed ahead” attitude make it possible for those who work with him to focus on the most important thing; the song. Whether it’s music, art, fashion or business, Mothers Favorite Child is armed with everything it needs to propel honesty, raw and a holistic environment to to the masses.

Nick Matzukis is a highly respected educator in the South African music industry and as an Advocate of the High Court, specialises in institutional, legal, business and educational aspects relating to the music industry.

His clients and referrers are drawn from attorneys, major royalty collection societies, publishers, labels, recording artists, industry associations, aggregators, music retailers and the Department of Trade and Industry itself (CIPC’s) Copyright Department.

Nick is a published author, academic, lecturer, Advocate of the High Court and music and education industry expert.

He has written many articles and four textbooks, the latest being the highly-acclaimed “Music Law, Contracts and Business - the smart

musician’s guide to how the South African Music industry works, how to negotiate the best possible contracts, and how to make money from music in South Africa and overseas.”

Nick knows the institutional, legal and business aspects of the music industry intimately, and also brings with him an educator’s and musician’s perspective.

He has been in education and training since the start of his career in 1983.

Mozambican jazz-saxophonist, composer, producer, academic and philanthropist, Moreira Chonguiça feted as one of the finest exponents of innovative and original jazz from Africa.

As an independent artist with seven award-winning, globally informed and celebrated albums – he is blazing a trail from his east-African roots to the world.

Exposed to and inspired by the likes of Miles Davis, Fela Kuti, Percy Sledge and Manu Dibango, Moreira’s energetic contemporary rhythmic compositions have garnered applauses across all six continents.

His unique sound, technical agility and ingenuity on the alto and soprano saxophone, coupled with passionate stage performance captivates audiences universally.

Mozambican jazz-saxophonist, composer, producer, academic and philanthropist, Moreira Chonguiça feted as one of the finest exponents of innovative and original jazz from Africa.

As an independent artist with seven award-winning, globally informed and celebrated albums – he is blazing a trail from his east-African roots to the world.

Exposed to and inspired by the likes of Miles Davis, Fela Kuti, Percy Sledge and Manu Dibango, Moreira’s energetic contemporary rhythmic compositions have garnered applauses across all six continents.

His unique sound, technical agility and ingenuity on the alto and soprano saxophone, coupled with passionate stage performance captivates audiences universally.

Sheldon Rocha Leal holds a BA in Law and Psychology from UNISA, a BMus Honours and MMus (Cum Laude) from the University of Pretoria and a PhD in Music Business and Education from the University of the Free State.

Besides for being in music education for the past 19 years he is also a performer and songwriter, having written songs for multiple artists including the SAMA award winning songstress Lira and artists RJ Benjamin, Yves, Danny K and Karen from Idols.

His music has had extensive playlisting on various radio stations nationally.

Some of his students have gone on to lead very successful music careers, people like Anatii, Shane Eagle, Vusi Nova and members of bands like Monark, Prime Circle, Tweak, Pascal and Pearce and Rubber Duc.

He has been instrumental in guiding and mentoring the careers of many young artists and music business leaders, assisting in recording company contract negotiations.

Sheldon Rocha Leal is currently the Director of Culture and Music at Southdowns College, a private school in Centurion.

He was previously the national head of sound engineering and music at Damelin and head of contemporary music at the National School of the Arts. He was instrumental in the writing of the national curriculum for music for GET, FET and HE at SAQA.

Sheldon has judged various music competitions, eisteddfods and festivals, including the writing of the National Eisteddfod curriculum for contemporary music and judging the St Andrew’s VIEBZ Competition, the STEPP Competition, Springs Eisteddfod, Kempton Park Music Festival, Radio Pulpit Gospel Competition and Randfontein Music Festival.

He has appeared on various television shows including being a musical mentor and vocal coach on The Voice Angola and a Top 5 finalist on the SABC 3 television reality contest Crux Gospel Star.

He has also served as a music commentator on SAFM, 702, Metro, Midrand and Eden FM.

Additionally, he has hosted and MC’d various shows including being the face of Givenchy, Black Flys and on a show in which he introduced the topic of how South African Music has Transformed international music trends for the United Nations.

Sheldon Rocha Leal is currently the Director of Culture and Music at Southdowns College, a private school in Centurion. He holds a BA in Law and Psychology from UNISA, a BMus Honours and MMus (Cum Laude) from the University of Pretoria and a PhD in Music Business and Education from the University of the Free State.

He was previously the national head of sound engineering and music at Damelin and head of contemporary music at the National School of the Arts. He was instrumental in the writing of the national curriculum for music for GET, FET and HE at SAQA.

Besides for being in music education for the past 19 years he is also a performer and songwriter, having written songs for multiple artists including the SAMA award winning songstress Lira and artists RJ Benjamin, Yves, Danny K and Karen from Idols. His music has had extensive playlisting on various radio stations nationally.

Some of his students have gone on to lead very successful music careers, people like Anatii, Shane Eagle, Vusi Nova and members of bands like Monark, Prime Circle, Tweak, Pascal and Pearce and Rubber Duc.

Part 2 with Neil Johnson who is a radio content programmer.

He has worked at Primedia, the SABC, Kagiso Media and recently for Kaya FM and AME.

Neil Johnson has a stellar radio career. Prepare to be inspired!

Select highlights below :

Radio programmer

Chief Content Officer – Kaya FM 95.9

Programme Manager – Jacaranda 94.2 FM

Programme Manager – Kaya FM 95.9

Course Development and Radio Training for the IAJ (Institute for the Advancement of Journalism)

Station Manager – P4 104.9 FM, Cape Town (Now Heart FM)

Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Steve Louw is recognised as one of the South African music industry’s most respected and accomplished talents. He has received critical acclaim in his native South Africa with his bands All Night Radio and Big Sky since his debut release in 1984.

 Louw has co-written songs with Dave Stewart and Brian May for the inaugural 46664 concert, a global campaign to bring awareness to the AIDS epidemic, along with long-time producer Kevin Shirley (The Black Crowes, John Hiatt, Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith).

 He has A-list collaborations with members of The Pretenders, The Heartbreakers and Keith Richards’ X Pensive Winos, and on his latest 2024 double album release, ⁠Between Time⁠, with US guitar legend Joe Bonamassa and Midnight Oil’s Jim Moginie. Kevin Shirley produced again, and the legendary Bob Ludwig mastered yet another seminal record.

He has performed with Rodriguez, as documented in the Oscar-winning documentary Searching for Sugarman, Johnny Clegg, Dave Stewart, Beyoncé and Youssou N’Dour.

A member of the South African Songwriters’ Hall of Fame and a South African Music Award winner, Steve Louw has an ongoing career spanning four decades.

We chatted to him in this two part conversation covering his impressive music journey to here.

This is that second, critical, half. Please enjoy.

⁠Website⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

⁠X⁠

⁠SoundCloud⁠

⁠Spotify⁠

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Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Steve Louw is recognised as one of the South African music industry’s most respected and accomplished talents. He has received critical acclaim in his native South Africa with his bands All Night Radio and Big Sky since his debut release in 1984.

 Louw has co-written songs with Dave Stewart and Brian May for the inaugural 46664 concert, a global campaign to bring awareness to the AIDS epidemic, along with long-time producer Kevin Shirley (The Black Crowes, John Hiatt, Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith).

 He has A-list collaborations with members of The Pretenders, The Heartbreakers and Keith Richards’ X Pensive Winos, and on his latest 2024 double album release, Between Time, with US guitar legend Joe Bonamassa and Midnight Oil’s Jim Moginie. Kevin Shirley produced again, and the legendary Bob Ludwig mastered yet another seminal record.

He has performed with Rodriguez, as documented in the Oscar-winning documentary Searching for Sugarman, Johnny Clegg, Dave Stewart, Beyoncé and Youssou N’Dour.

A member of the South African Songwriters’ Hall of Fame and a South African Music Award winner, Steve Louw has an ongoing career spanning four decades.

We chatted to him in this two part conversation covering his impressive music journey to here.

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Ashley is a Cape Town based actor, known for various TV roles on shows such as Scandal!, Isidingo and Binnelanders.

His international work includes ‘Warrior’ for HBO, and ‘Deep State’ for UK- based Endor productions and as Mickey Purvis, Scottish husband of the endearing Tannie in the series 'Recipes For Love And Murder' for Mnet (SA) and Acorn TV (Scotland).

He played the Milli Vanilli talent manager ‘Girl You Know It’s True’ released in SA cinemas June 2024.

Recent theatre work includes: Paul Slabolepszy’s ‘The Return of Elvis Du Pisanie'.

‘The Curious Incident Of The Boy In The Night’, 'Constellations' (as Roland) - for Pieter Toerien Productions, 'Pale Natives' (as Ashley at The Market Theatre), 'Soil' (as Nic - Theatre on the Square), 'Hard Love' (as Zvi) and Claudius in The Framework company's ‘Hamlet'.

Ashley is a Cape Town based actor, known for various TV roles on shows such as Scandal!, Isidingo and Binnelanders.

His international work includes ‘Warrior’ for HBO, and ‘Deep State’ for UK- based Endor productions and as Mickey Purvis, Scottish husband of the endearing Tannie in the series 'Recipes For Love And Murder' for Mnet (SA) and Acorn TV (Scotland).

He played the Milli Vanilli talent manager ‘Girl You Know It’s True’ released in SA cinemas June 2024.

Recent theatre work includes: Paul Slabolepszy’s ‘The Return of Elvis Du Pisanie'.

‘The Curious Incident Of The Boy In The Night’, 'Constellations' (as Roland) - for Pieter Toerien Productions, 'Pale Natives' (as Ashley at The Market Theatre), 'Soil' (as Nic - Theatre on the Square), 'Hard Love' (as Zvi) and Claudius in The Framework company's ‘Hamlet'.