The place is The Bank; the date is 03 September; and on the bill are performances from the likes of rappers AKA and Maggz; as well as an impressive lineup of some of the best hip hop DJ’s on the scene right now. Please see flyer for more details below.

A great way to welcome Spring, I’d say! Or kanjani?

Whilst grinding, or doing whatever happens at clubs on a Friday night, DJ’s Fanatic, Master M, Switch, Sphe and Naves will be helping you with a soundtrack to the evening as they spin them decks.

Doors open at 10pm and ladies get in for free before 11pm. Like I said, or was that Erro, GIRLS GALORE!

Fancy being part of a groundbreaking experience in hip hop? If you are already a Tumi fan, this one is not to be missed. For anything. If you are a music fan period, you still don’t want to miss this one. Please read on to see what I’m talking about.

Tumi Live Remixed is an added jewel to poet/MC Tumi’s crown as the country’s foremost live Hip-hop performer. From the inception of his career on Joburg’s bohemian spoken word circuit, through his ongoing stint as front man for the band The Volume to his mounting rep as a solo artist, Tumi’s delivery on stage and on record remains unparalleled. Long before live bands became the standard Joburg artist’s accessory, Tumi had already changed the game in advance, establishing his Modus Operandi as the MC for whom every and any drum beat could be rhymed to . It’s the very reason why his name in Europe is the best known out of this generation of South African musicians. And it’s also why when the 90 million plus viewers watched Shakira perform Hips Don’t Lie at the FIFA World Cup kick-off concert, it was him they saw spitting a new verse Wyclef would be envious of.

In keeping with his reputation as an innovator, Tumi will take from the familiar and create something singular. Live Remixed amasses music from his critically acclaimed solo debut Music from My Good Eye as well as his 2010 SAMA-nominated Whole Worlds (best Hip-hop, best album cover). But there’s a twist. Live band in tow, Tumi will flip these songs his fans have come to know and love into versions never heard before, and most likely never to be played again.

And for added diversity some of the most respected names across the urban scene will jump into the seamless flow of the set, recreating on stage what a mixtape would sound like with an added live dimension: From behind the decks C-Live, Master M and Romz Deluxe will ensure the energy stays at peak level. Look out for Hype Awards’ 2010 Best Newcomer AKA, MC and member of prolific production outfit IV League. There’s also a word in from Yesterday’s Pupil, an entire rock-electro band unto himself on whose debut album Errors of Enthusiasm Tumi also appears. And the Juno award-nominated South African/Canadian, singer/songwriter Zaki Ibrahim with whom Tumi has a long standing working relationship beginning with her contribution to his first album will bring her captivating ethereal vocals to the proceedings. As will the afro-soul powerhouse that is MXO. Also a long time collaborator of Tumi’s, he’s hard to miss on Whole World’s current single Family Plan. The video for it is available exclusively on the Levi’s® Original Music Facebook page (Please see the link http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150239723990585&ref=mf)

Be part of a memorable and original live music experience that promises spontaneity, eloquence and innovation in what is fast becoming Johannesburg’s premier live music venue, the Alex Theatre.

See more details on the above flyer.

Just to get a faint idea of what to expect, check out our review of Tumi’s performance at 5FM’s Live @ 5 in May right HERE.

I got to know particularly about Rahsaan Patterson and Lalah Hathaway being on the bill for this year’s Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz Festival a few months ago. Since then more and more artists have been constantly added to the already impressive lineup.

Some of the world’s top artists will be providing a global mélange of sound at The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz joining an already impressive line-up at the country’s top jazz-travaganza!

Running from August 26 to 28 in Newtown, the 2010 line-up features artists from America, Japan and Israel who will share billing with top performers from South Africa and the African Diaspora.

America’s Ravi Coltrane, Kim Waters, Stacey Kent, violinist Michael Ward, percussionist Poncho Sanchez and jazz quartet Fourplay comprising Bob James, Nathan East, Harvey Mason and Chuck Loeb will be joined by Japan’s Sadao Watanabe and Israel’s award-winning clarinettist Anat Cohen.

Performers from the African continent include Mali’s acclaimed Oumou Sangare and a strong South African line-up of Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Wanda Baloyi, Kyle Shepherd, Putuma, Nhlanhla Nciza, Wouter Kellerman,Tsepo Tshola and Melanie Scholtz, the Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz for 2010.

Already announced for the festival are critically acclaimed soul singer Rahsaan Patterson, London based guitarist and vocalist Brian Temba and the phenomenal Cape Town jazz singer Auriol Hays who share the bill on the opening night of the festival on the Dinaledi stage. Headlining day two, on the Dinaledi stage, are trumpeter Chris Botti and celebrated jazz singer Lalah Hathaway.

Oumou Sangare, known as “The Songbird of Wassoulou”, is regarded as one of the greatest female African stars of her generation. Ravi Coltrane is a critically acclaimed and Grammy™ nominated saxophonist, bandleader, and composer who founded the prominent independent record label, RKM.

Japanese saxophonist and flutist Sadao Watanabe has been awarded the Order of the Rising Sun for his contribution to the arts. Stacey Kent was voted best jazz vocalist at the 2001 British Jazz Awards and the 2002 BBC Jazz Awards and was also a 2009 Grammy nominee. Her greatest success came with the release of her debut album Breakfast On the Morning Tram.

Prolific saxman and composer Kim Waters, who recently celebrated his 20th anniversary in the business, juggles such diverse projects as The Sax Pack (with fellow saxophonists Jeff Kashiwa and Steve Cole) and his Streetwize and Tha’ Hot Club CDs that are known for their reworkings of the hottest hip hop, R&B and reggae hits. Anat Cohen has established herself as one of the primary voices of her generation on both the tenor saxophone and clarinet. The Jazz Journalists Association named her Clarinetist of the Year by in both 2007 and 2008 – the first time in the history of the awards that an artist has earned top clarinet honours two years running.

Says festival producer, Mantwa Odutayo of T-Musicman: “We have gone to great lengths to secure the finest artists and we believe we have a heavyweight line up befitting 2010’s stature.”

Commented Mandie van der Spuy, head Art & Jazz Sponsorships Standard Bank: “Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz 2010 will be a year to remember. Not only will we have successfully hosted one of the world’s greatest sporting events but we will be showcasing some of world’s best musical talent at the 11th Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz.”

The 2010 Standard Bank Joy Of Jazz will take place at six venues in the city’s Newtown precinct. The Dinaledi Stage and the Mbira Stage will be erected on Mary Fitzgerald Square, creating two purpose-built venues to showcase this year’s line-up. Other venues include The Market Theatre and The Bassline, Sophiatown and Nikki’s Oasis.

For more information on the line-up, venues go to www.standardbankarts.com and www.joyofjazz.co.za

Tickets are on sale at Computicket with a 15% discount for all Standard Bank customers.

The 2010 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is produced by T-Musicman and presented by Standard Bank.

I’m so looking forward to this year’s performances, i had a blast last year. I hope Rahsaan and Lalah give us a taste of their popular Lah & Rah sessions taking Youtube by storm.

Picture caption: Ravi Coltrane

Mam' Busi Mhlongo

It`s a celebration of her story and legacy, its a show case of an icon and most importantly its the
Queen of Mbaqanga!!!! A musical journey through Busi Mhlongo’s musical history.

Artists specially invited to perform for Ms. Mhlongo at the concert will include: Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Sibongile Khumalo, Judith Sephuma, Thandi Klassen, Abigail Kubeka, Sipho
“Hotstix” Mabuse, Selaelo Selota, Deborah Fraser, Thembsile Ntaka, Madala Kunene, Shabalala
Rhythm, Ringo Madlingozi, Thandiswa Mazwai, Zonke, Zamajobe, Camagwini & Nhlanhla
Nciza.

The concert will feature numerous unexpected appearances, with several major artists keeping
silent about their involvement in order to take both Ms. Mhlongo and the audience by surprise.

The concert has been made possible through the generosity of Ngwenyama Holdings, HRH Prince Makhosini “Omari” Dlamini, Ukhozi FM & The Playhouse Company.

There will be a press conference on Tuesday 25 May 2010 at the Bassline in Newtown. It will also be the second day of rehearsals. .

Tickets are on sale already at www.computicket.com.

Group bookings may be made through Ngwenyama Holdings through Ms. Nono Suntele: nono@ngwenyamaholdings.com or Tel: 011 083 5425

Put your money where your mouth is Mzansi, support and celebrate our local legends whilst they are still with us!

BLK JKS

“As South Africans we are proud to be hosting the first ever World Cup on African soil,” said Hugh Masekela. “I am very humbled and flattered to be part of this global event and am looking forward to the concert with great interest and excitement.”

Amadou & Miriam

From its conception, event organizers envisioned the inaugural concert showcasing the rich cultural diversity and musical heritage of South Africa. Artists selected represent current popularity and reflect the variety of musical generations, genres, and geographies of the country and African region. The full line-up, featuring 70 percent African artists, will be seen by millions of music and football fans worldwide through the live broadcasts.

“We wanted to have an eclectic mix of music genres to appeal to as many people as possible around the world whilst at the same time showcasing the immense home-grown talent of the host country,” said FIFA Director of TV, Niclas Ericson.

John Legend

South African broadcaster SABC will transmit the event live nationwide. “The South African Broadcast Corporation is proud to be the exclusive free to air broadcaster in South Africa and to be the technical co-producer to ensure this concert reaches millions of people through television and radio around the world” said SABC CEO Solly Mokoetle.

Public Tickets

Music fans around the world can purchase tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime concert today online at Computicket or via phone on (27) 083 915 8000. Concert tickets are priced at R450 (Outer Circle standing), R650 (Inner Circle standing), R850 & R950 (Upper Level seated), R1150 & R1400 (Lower Level seated). Ticket prices include VAT, Computicket Charges and Park and Ride for all ticket holders.

Parking and Security

A comprehensive parking and security system has been put into place for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Kick-Off Celebration Concert.

The Parlotones

All those attending will be able to make use of the comprehensive park & ride facilities at nearby Nasrec. Concertgoers will then use the free bus shuttle service to and from Orlando Stadium as no parking will be permitted on or nearby the stadium itself. A comprehensive safety and security plan will be implemented for both Orlando Stadium and the Nasrec park & ride hub.

South African Media Partners

Local South African media partners Kaya-FM, Talk Radio 702 and 94.7 Highveld Stereo are proud to be part of this first ever FIFA WORLD CUP KICK –OFF CELEBRATION CONCERT.

Executive-produced by Emmy Award-winning producer Kevin Wall and his company Control Room, in partnership with local promoter, Showtime Entertainment, the event will feature musical performances by major international superstars and popular African artists collaborating together, along with special appearances by past and present football legends with all proceeds to benefit 20 Centres for 2010, the Official Campaign of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, and providing a communications platform for 1Goal, an organization that aims to mobilize public support to hold governments to their promises and enable every child to get into a classroom and receive an education by 2015. Expected to be the greatest entertainment event to date on the African continent, the event will be televised to millions worldwide.

Alicia Keys

For more information about the official FIFA WORLD CUP KICK–OFF CELEBRATION CONCERT, please visit www.fifa.com/concert.

Robin Thicke to perform in Mzansi in May.

With the World Cup being hosted on African Soil for the first time, in South Africa, the fast approaching event has opened up our doors to tourists, investors and soccer crazy fans from all over the world, not excluding some of the world’s most talented singers, musicians and actors.

Known previously in the music industry only as a song writer and producer for artists such as Christina Aguilera, Mya, Brandy, Marc Anthony and Usher, Thicke went on to win a Grammy Award for best songwriter and producer for the single Confessions off Usher’s album of the same name in 2004. In 2007 the release of his second album, The Evolution of Robin Thicke, finally garnered him the recognition for his vocal abilities. He won ‘Breakthrough artist of the Year’ 2007 at the VH1/Vibe Soul Awards.

Not forgetting his famous heritage, his dad, Canadian actor Alan Thicke and his mom ‘Days of our lives’ actress Gloria Loring, Robin was surely destined for fame.

The handsome singer with his angelic voice and seductive tunes, will breeze into SA for 11 days on 21st May 2010. He will host a Charity Gala dinner, raising funds for Haiti, due to take place at the Sandton Convention Centre on Thursday 27TH May 2010 and a concert on Friday 28th May 2010 at the same venue.

BlueBlack Productions is proud to present the Grammy Award winning singing sensation Ne-Yo. This American pop and R&B singer-songwriter, record producer, actor and occasional rapper will be making his South African
debut performance at the Coca-cola Dome in Johannesburg and Bellville Velodrome in Cape Town on May 01 and May 04, 2010, respectively.

Born Shaffer Chimere Smith, Ne-Yo broke into the industry after “Let Me Love You”, a song he wrote for American singer Mario, reached number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, and later stayed on the top spot for nine weeks, becoming one of the most-played songs in the United States. Since his debut album “In my Own Words”, Ne-Yo has five top ten songs on the Billboard Hot 100 as a lead artist and two number-one albums on the Billboard 200. Ne-Yo has also amassed a catalogue of chart-topping songs that he has co-authored for other artists including Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, Rihanna, Jammie Foxx, Tyrese and Heather Headley.

After getting out of a deal with Columbia Records with no released material, he met up with a close friend who introduced him to L.A. Reid, who signed him on the spot to Def Jam Records. Ne-Yo will be supported by our very own “Show Dem” (Make the circle beeger) star JR. It has been said that the man who is driven by passion can know no limits and be bound by nothing – if you need evidence of this look no further than the rising star of South African Hip Hop, JR. The surprisingly young and immensely talented rapper grew up surrounded by music and driven by an insatiable hunger for the next best beat, the perfect beat – that has been his quest, and it is one he comes closer to with his every musical endeavour.

Ne-Yo is brought to you by BlueBlack Productions in proud association with Neo – Africa, Metro FM, Vuzu TV channel 123 on DSTV, The Star, The Star Tonight, Sunday Independent and Aston Martin.

Tickets range from R250 – R420 and are available @ Computicket in all the Shoprite, Checkers and Checkers Hyper Computicket outlets. For more information visit www.computicket.co.za or call 083 915 8000

Starring stand up comedians Mark Banks, Barry Hilton, Loyiso Gola, Joey Rasdien, Krijay Govender and John Vlismas, the film features footage taken from a show recorded at Carnival City where all these masters of humour and comedy thrilled the audiences with their edgy, witty and entertaining routines.

Outrageous hits cinemas nationwide this coming Thursday, 01 April 2010. Check it out, you’ll laugh until your stomach hurts! LOL.

On 2 April MTV base Nights will be taking over Chrome with hip hop sensation JR live on stage to showcase the style that brought you hits like “So Hot” and chart-buster “Show Dem”, giving Cape Town clubbers a taste of one of the brightest new stars on the SA hip hop scene. JR is benefitting from the new MTV base initiative “Brand: New” which will see huge exposure for the talented rapper on TV, web and mobile platforms.

Deep Level will be part of the scene with the rap duo set to rip up the dancefloor with their trademark street rhymes and catchy hooks.

Flippin’ it all night long on the decks are some of the country’s hottest DJs Switch, pH, Trixx, Aston Abel and DJ Lyle.

Since its inception last July, MTV base Nights have become the most anticipated night out on the monthly social calendar. Cape Town partygoers are still talking about the last MTV base Night, so don’t miss out again!

Doors open at 21h00. Tickets are available at the door. R80 gets you in, R100 gets you VIP. Dress code is “Look Fresh and Brand New”. No under 18s.

For more news about MTV base Nights, join the MTV base group on Twitter and Facebook at https://twitter.com/MTVbaseAfrica and http://www.facebook.com/pages/MTV-BASE/20733448585, or visit MTV base online at www.mtvbase.com.