‘100% African vibe for World Cup’
2010-03-07 11:40
Kwaito king Arthur Mafokate is calling on broadcasters for 100% African music during the Fifa World Cup.
He believes that this move might give South African musicians exposure and open doors for them.
“Not all musicians will get work during the World Cup, but if you promote their music a tourist might like it and give the artist a recording deal,” he said yesterday.
Mafokate said he would consult all relevant stakeholders in the music and broadcasting industry and put forward his proposal.
Singer Mzwakhe Mbuli added his voice to the venture. “It’s a wonderful call and he has my support. People from overseas want to learn about our culture but the problem is that our music is too Eurocentric and American.”
SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said it was not for the public broadcaster to decide that 100% airplay should go to African music. “They have to engage the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa. They are the ones who have the power to decide on music quotas.”
The SABC owns most of the country’s radio stations. Of these, Metro FM and 5FM play the most foreign music.
Kaya FM spokesperson Londi Sibisi said the Gauteng station had started playing more African and South African music since the Confederations Cup in January.
“Closer to the World Cup we are going to play more African music in support of African teams playing in the tournament,” said Sibisi.
Limpopo-based Capricorn FM’s chief executive, Simphiwe Mdlalose, said: “It’s a good thing to promote our music. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we have to use it.”
- City Press