The MTV Networks operations in Africa turns 5 this year. To celebrate this milestone for the channel MTVBase they threw a mother of all parties, which I’ve just returned from. It was an invite-only affair that took place at Urban Tree in Kramerville.
As we entered the venue, we were greeted with warm welcomes and advised of the self photo-booth to capture the memories of this moment. The venue was decked out with white decor complementing the white walls and the polyfoams cut in the number 5′s that hung down from the ceiling. The snacks lay in uniform on the tables and the bars open for guests to order drinks as they please.
The night was surely looking up as I spotted and chatted to familiar faces in the crowds, including the soon to be re-launched Blaque Magazine editor Monwabisi Thethe, EMI’s Kevin Mdubeki and Citizen’s Munya. Loyiso Bala joined us shortly afterwards. We chatted about the Precious premiere that YEAHBO.NET hosted and that he attended last Sunday as well as his reactions to the film. He also expressed how much he was looking forward to the Oscars this coming Sunday night.
More droves of people poured in, all in anticipation of a great night. We mingled and took pictures, whilst enjoying the food and drinks that were on offer. DJ Dimples and Milkshake both took turns playing us some latest hip hop tunes. Before long, host and MTVBase VJ Sizwe Dhlomo announced that the performances were going to start shortly.
As promised, shortly afterwards, the now 2-member JOZI (comprising now of Da Les and Ishmael) was introduced to the stage. Like they always do, they sizzled. Their performances are always so energetic and they didn’t disappoint this time around. Their charismatic dancers added more fun and effect to the experience. After that Sizwe announced that the artist performances would alternate with the DJ’s doing what they do best on the decks.
DJ Milkshake came back before rapper JR rocked the crowd with a few of his hits. I was actually very impressed with how entertaining he was, especially when he performed his hit Show Dem (Make The Circle Bigger). His surprisingly good dance moves rippled through the crowd who gave him back the same energy. Next on the line-up was group Teargas who performed some of their biggest hits after DJ Switch showed us what he can do behind the turntables.
Rock band The Parlotones mesmerised us with their catchy tunes. The highlight for me seeing and hearing Kahn and his boys was them doing their rendition of Black Eyed Peas’ hit I Got A Feeling (Tonight’s Gonna Be A Good Night), which they did such flair and confidence, to crowds delight of course. Mid The Parlotones performance, Senior VP and Chairman of MTV Networks Africa, Alex Okosi made a speech. He called up his team to the stage to relay his appreciation for all they’ve done for the network. The Parlotones then broke into the world-renowned birthday song, asking the crowd to assist them to wish MTV Africa a happy birthday.
Later on, after another DJ and the crowds forming a circle to show their dance skills, PRO burst into the stage with his familiar energy and passion. He also rocked the crowd as he always does. It was amazing seeing fans react the way they do. I guess it’s the kind of effect and talent PRO has, and the ability to engage his audience the way he does.
It was a great night filled with great conversations, amazing music and entertainment in general, delicious food and an awesome ambiance. Thanks to MTV Africa for such a memorable experience. May they see many, many more years. Happy 5 years MTV Africa! Continue providing us with such entertaining programming.
