Wawela Music Awards 2016 2

Wawela Music Awards Acknowledgements

GM Marketing: TIYANI MALULEKE

Content & Communication Specialist: PHASH RATSHILUMELA

Awards Coordinator: IDAH RAMOLOTO

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www.wawelamusicawards.co.za

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For more information about the upcoming Wawela Music Awards call SAMRO on 011 712 8505 or email: [email protected] 3 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 4

CONTENTS

01 CEO Foreword 08 2016 Wawela Music Awards winners announced TIMELESS SONGS ARE

03 Chairperson Letter 10 Winners ARGUABLY OUR GREATEST

05 2016 Wawela Music 11 Nominee Profiles Awards Nominees CREATIVE LEGACY. Rev Abe Sibiya

06 Nominees 13 2016 Wawela Music Awards Nominees & Winners Contact Details

07 Special Award Nominees 5 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 6

Rev Abe Sibiya It was a bittersweet occasion paying homage to Acting CEO: SAMRO songwriter, composer and producer Gabi le Roux CEO for his prolific catalogue of work, as it was only a few weeks earlier that his friend Mandoza had died of cancer. Le Roux produced the late star’s crossover smash hit Nkalakatha.

In her 70s but as elegant and glamorous as ever, grand dame of cabaret Abigail Kubeka received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Wawelas. FORWARD This singer-songwriter was part of the golden era of South African jazz in the 1950s and 1960s, and still performs regularly. Timeless songs are And they all arise from a spark of inspiration, some arguably our greatest might even say genius, that’s hard to define and Another cultural icon, Zimbabwe’s Oliver Mtukudzi, maddeningly elusive to harness. If only we could creative legacy. Look at the who is regarded as one of Southern Africa’s most bottle it and sell it! wealth of memorable hits treasured musical sons, was given the Breaking produced over the years by Through the Borders Award. Who could forget his SAMRO wants to encourage our talented music sons and daughters of the heartfelt Neria from the movie of the same name? creators to craft more such iconic songs – the type South African soil: Caiphus that form the soundtrack to the pivotal moments in All three of these music titans are a shining example Semenya, Hugh Masekela, our lives. Therefore, as a vehicle to reward the art of how to forge a career as a music creator – it’s no and craft of songwriting, composition and music Miriam Makeba, Bright walk in the park, to be sure, but their legacy lies their production, we hope the Wawela Music Awards will Blue, Johnny Clegg, Lucky incredible canon of work that they will leave for future grow organically to become one of the most prized Dube, Arno Carstens… the generations to bask in and enjoy. and sought-after accolades in our industry. list goes on and on. These

are songs that compete As a composer and producer myself, I know that with the best in the world. crafting your own material requires dedication, hard work, persistence, concentration and often frustration… in addition to that spark of inspiration. It doesn’t come easily.

We know how strenuous the creative process can be, and this is why it gave us so much joy this year to honour three industry icons whose body of work has contributed immeasurably to enriching the fabric of South African music. 7 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 8 CHAIRPERSON’S

This is why, at this year’s WMAs, we celebrated an array of glittering music makers – from the well- known to the emerging, from the legends to the stalwarts, across several genres. Let’s look at two musicians who each received two Wawelas this year as cases in point.

LETTER Nik Sakellarides, for one, has been writing music for the film and television industry in and the Sibongile Khumalo United States for some 26 years, and has recently been producing original scores for local theatre and Acting Chairperson of the SAMRO Board ballet productions too. He is highly regarded within the industry, but few in the outside world pause to think about the creative genius behind those That catchy TV commercial The Wawela Music Awards (WMAs), now in their memorable jingles. jingle that sticks in your head all fourth year, are slowly but surely chipping away day, that film soundtrack that at that reality. With so many awards out there Then you get someone like young jazz musician washes over your senses and recognising performing artists, SAMRO, being an Benjamin Jephta, whose star is certainly on the rise. association of songwriters and composers, thought it Before he clinched two WMAs for Songwriter of the makes you connect deeply with only logical that the brains behind the microphones Year and Best Male Artist and Composer, this whizz WE CELEBRATED AN the unfolding story… often, these should also be celebrated. on the electric bass and double bass was named are compositions by people runner-up in the SAMRO Overseas Scholarships ARRAY OF GLITTERING you’ve never heard of. They are As a music creator myself, I fully applaud this Competition. A few weeks later, Jephta was crowned making a living out of creating initiative. Music feeds a nation’s collective soul, and 2017 Standard Bank Young Artist for jazz. His is MUSIC MAKERS – FROM inspiring music, yet for the most encouraging the process of conjuring new. Original clearly a name to watch, and SAMRO is proud to be work is vital if we want our people’s stories to keep a partner in his music development and evolution as part they remain incognito. THE WELL-KNOWN TO being told and their inner rhythms given voice. he charts ever-higher creative trajectories.

THE EMERGING, FROM Just because the profile of those behind the scenes is often lower than that of those basking in the THE LEGENDS TO THE spotlight, it doesn’t mean that their contribution STALWARTS, ACROSS is of any less value. SEVERAL GENRES. 9 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 10

The Wawela Music Awards (WMAs) burst onto the other awards solely celebrate the performers of stage in 2013 and since then, nothing has been able musical works, the WMAs are the only awards in to stop their meteoric rise! The WMAs are officially South Africa to acknowledge the people behind recognised as a dazzling highlight on the music the creation of the music that shapes our world ABOUT industry calendar. and is the soundtrack of our lives! These are the composers, songwriters and publishers of music who Wawela means “go beyond” and that’s exactly what work behind the stage as well as on it! The WMAs these awards have done so far! They’ve attracted were exclusively created to showcase the creative more big name winners than anyone ever thought talent of SAMRO members whose amazing talent is possible and have surprised SA by unearthing the celebrated both at home and abroad. country’s newest composing and songwriting talent! WAWELA MUSIC They’ve surpassed even SAMRO’s expectations To date a pantheon of SA music creators has graced of success! In word and deed, the WMAs have the WMAs stage with stunning performances, smashed through the boundaries and gone beyond to showcasing their composing and songwriting talent deliver recognition to SAMRO’s outstanding musical to the world. maestros! The awards are proudly brought to you by SAMRO AWARDS So what makes the WMAs so different? Well, while and are exclusively open to all SAMRO members. 11 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 12

NOMINEES SPECIAL AWARDS

Best Soundtrack in a Feature Best Song or Composition Best South African Duo or Group Prolific Catalogue of Works Lifetime Achievement Award Breaking through the Borders Film or Theatric Documentary in a Radio Commercial BEATENBERG GABI LE ROUX ABIGAIL KUBEKA OLIVER MTUKUDZI ALUN RICHARDS NIK SAKELLARIDES THE SOIL NIK SAKELLARIDES LOUIS ENSLIN BLACK MOTION BENJAMIN WILLEM ADAM HOWARD Best Male Artist & Best Song or Composition Best Creative Album of the Year Composer/Co Composer in a Television Production MALEH BENJAMIN JEPHTA ORANGOTANG MUSIC WOUTER KELLERMAN SOUL JOE NIEMAND JACK PAROW FABIAN SING BENJAMIN WILLEM Songwriter of the Year Best Female Artist & Composer Best Song or Composition BENJAMIN JEPHTA LINDIWE MAXOLO in a Television Commercial THE SOIL TEBOGO MALEH ALUN RICHARDS LINDIWE MAXOLO NAIMA KAY ADAM HOWARD 13 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 14

It is hard to believe that the WMAs have come this far! Not so long ago, we were planning to host the very first edition of the awards and today we on the fourth instalment.

On Friday, 7 October 2016, we announced the winners of the Wawela Music Awards at a glitzy event held at the Wanderers Club in Illovo, . The event was attended by nominees, industry stakeholders, government officials, SAMRO members as well as members of the SAMRO Board and its subsidiaries.

The event was a true demonstration of how local sound has matured - with the new generation of music composers, lyricists and songwriters proving that they are ready to carry on the legacy left behind by industry greats of EDITOR’S yesteryear. With the 2016 WMAs, we were once again able to put a spotlight on some of the best talents we have in South Africa. We congratulate all nominees and winners. We look forward to celebrating your soaring talent with the rest of Mzansi. We look NOTE forward to hosting another successful event in 2017. TIYANI MALULEKE GENERAL MANAGER: MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS 15 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 16

STANDARD AWARDS SPECIAL AWARDS WINNERS WINNERS

Best Soundtrack in a Feature Film Best Song or Composition Best South African Prolific Catalogue of Works Lifetime Achievement Award Breaking through the Borders or Theatric Documentary in a Radio Commercial Duo or Group GABI LE ROUX ABIGAIL KUBEKA OLIVER MTUKUDZI NIK SAKELLARIDES NIK SAKELLARIDES BEATENBERG

Best Song or Composition in Best Creative Best Male Artist a Television Production Album of the Year & Composer/Co Composer BENJAMIN WILLEM MALEH BENJAMIN JEPHTA

Best Song or Composition Songwriter Best Female in a Television Commercial of the Year Artist & Composer THE SOIL BENJAMIN JEPHTA LINDIWE MAXOLO 17 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 18 ALUN ADAM RICHARDS HOWARD

NOMINATED FOR: Alun Richards is one of South Africa’s most prolific Adam Howard is an acclaimed score composer who NOMINATED FOR: score composers, having jot in excess of over 6000 is best known for his work in television, film, and BEST SOUNDTRACK television commercials thus far. advertising. He holds a classical music degree from BEST SONG OR the world famous Guildhall School of Music and IN A FEATURE Richards is the founder of Kwazi Mojo Media and Drama in London. COMPOSITION FILM OR THEATRIC Cut & Paste Generation. Cut & Paste Generation was IN A TELEVISION established in 1995 and has become one of South Freshly Ground, Loyiso Bala, Mbongeni Ngema, DOCUMENTARY Africa’s most awarded and prolific music composition Sibongile Khumalo, Steve Hofmeyer, , COMMERCIAL and licensing companies for film, TV, gaming Danny K, Mafikozolo and Watershed are just some and commercials. of the names he has composed, arranged and BEST SONG OR produced for. BEST SONG OR Adding to his success, Richards is also a founding COMPOSITION investor and director of Bladeworks Post Production In 2010, he orchestrated the film White Lion with COMPOSITION facilities - a leading player in high end post facilities Phillip Miller. He also formed the Johannesburg IN A TELEVISION in the country. He is also a shareholder and director Big Band in 2011 which features the best jazz and IN A RADIO COMMERCIAL of the Waterfront Film Studios based at the V&A session musicians in South Africa. COMMERCIAL Waterfront in Cape Town. He regularly conducts the Johannesburg Festival Richards has won a gamut of international awards Orchestra where he is an in-demand musical director. for original music composition and sound design, Until not so long ago, Howard was a principal trumpet including Cannes Grand Prix, Clio, The One Club, player for the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Silver Pencil DnAD’s, LIAA and Loerie awards. In 2012, Howard was asked to be a musical for He has composed scores for a number of Films the acclaimed South African fine artist, William including, Number 10 (2005), Dollars & White Pipes Kentridge’s Refuse the Hour – an avant-garde (2006), Lullabye (2007) and Discreet (2009). chamber opera that mainly tours the world.

His production company, Howard Music has won several awards for music in adverts, including a Clio and Silver Loerie. He has served clients such as TBWA Hunt Lascaris, Draft FCB, Young & Rubicam, Ogilvy, JWT and the Metropolitan Republic.

He performed at the 2010 FIFA World Cup “kick-off” concert with the likes of Alicia Keys, John Legend, Hugh Masekela and Angelique Kidjo. 19 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 20 BENJAMIN LINDIWE WILLEM MAXOLO

NOMINATED FOR: From playing the piano at just 8 years old, talented Lindiwe Maxolo has for some years now been NOMINATED FOR: composer Benjamin Willem has a number of musical working very hard towards establishing herself as BEST SOUNDTRACK accomplishments under his belt. He has completed a force to be reckoned. Maxolo holds an honours SONGWRITER 16 cinema released feature films and composed degree in Jazz Music (Cum Laude) from the IN A FEATURE music that goes over 50 hours, worth of productions University of Cape Town. In 2002 she won the OF THE YEAR FILM OR THEATRIC that have been performed in 63 territories Afro Vocal category at the Old Mutual Jazz around the globe. Encounters Competition. DOCUMENTARY NOMINATED & Willem studied bachelors in Music Composition at The talented singer released her debut album, “Time” WITS University where he also lectured briefly. In his in 2012. This release secured her a nomination for WINNER FOR: NOMINATED & second year of studying at WITS, the talented Best Jazz Album at the 2013 South African Music BEST FEMALE pianist had taken on his first professional Awards (SAMAs), Best African Jazz Album at WINNER FOR: job as a music composer. the 2014 South African Traditional Music Awards ARTIST & (SATMAs) and Best Creative Album of the Year at BEST SONG OR Shortly after completing the studies, Willem wrote his the 2014 Wawela Music Awards. She has also COMPOSER COMPOSITION first score and this set him on course to becoming won the Women in Jazz category at the 2014 a major music composer for film and television. In Mbokodo Awards. IN A TELEVISION 2003, Willem worked as a part time lecture in music technology at his former university. It was in 2004 Maxolo has shared the stage with Celebrated PRODUCTION that he started his own music production company Musicians such as Dave Grusin, Lee Ritenour, and later opened an audio post production facility Magnus Lindgran, Sibongile Khumalo, Themba with his long-time colleague, Basiami Segola. Mkhize, Gloria Bosman and feya.

As a score composer, Willem has been involved in Expanding her horizons, the songstress is also part a number of award-winning projects including the of a group called Three Steps Within, which she documentary, The Last Lioness and trailer for Sho’t formed with talented musicians, McCoy Mrubata Left. He has also received a number of awards and Concord Nkabinde. nominations for his work including the score for Pad na Jou Hart at the Silverskerm film festival and best music nomination for On the Shoulders of Giants. He was also nominated in three categories for 2015 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). 21 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 22 LOUIS NIK ENSLIN SAKELLARIDES

NOMINATED FOR: There’s no substitute for good work. Louis Enslin is Born in Pietermaritzburg, Composer Nik Sakellarides NOMINATED & an award winning sound engineer with over 20 years spent his formative years in small towns in KZN. BEST SONG OR of experience in live sound, studio recording, music WINNER FOR: production, jingle composition and post production. Under the name Nikki Saks he scored countless COMPOSITION radio and TV jingles for brands such as Tiger Wheel BEST SOUNDTRACK IN A RADIO The beginnings of Louis’ sterling career can be and Tyre – which some are still running, 20 years IN A FEATURE tracked back to theatre where he worked as a front later. He has also composed some defining Channel COMMERCIAL of house engineer for a theatrical company while themes and station identity for MNET’s – Won’t FILM OR THEATRIC studying sound in 2000. Stop the Magic At All, SuperSport’s Channel of Champions, KTV – Kids with An attitude, Orkney DOCUMENTARY After relocating to the Refinery in 2004, the talent Snork Nie (Season 1), Network (NEWS/SABC) bought the company Produce Sound, previously amongst many others.After completing the theme owned by Hugh and Sherry Bush. Louis later opened music for the historic 1994 elections for SABC, he NOMINATED & a 3 studio facility in 2012. followed a childhood dream and relocated to the USA and settled in Atlanta. Highlights of his time in WINNER FOR: In the 4 years that the Wawela Music Awards have the states include doing work for Mc Canns on Coca BEST SONG OR been held, Enslin has been nominated every single Cola commercials and the theme for CNN’s World time. This accomplished composer has a number of Beat – a weekly world music program. COMPOSITION awards to his name and has also worked on many award-winning projects. Not for the feint hearted Sakellarides spent over 5 IN A RADIO years in Hollywood discovering the true nature of COMMERCIAL Amongst other accolades Enslin has credits for the “dream” factory. He fed his enduring passion for include Loeries, Vuka (TAG) and Promax, Cannes film scoring with on-going study. He made significant Gold Lion. strides into defining his hybrid sound, which combines traditional orchestral sounds with a strong digital electronic and sample-based palette. 23 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 24 ORANGOTANG JOE MUSIC NIEMAN

Orangotang Music was launched in 2009 by two NOMINATED FOR: NOMINATED FOR: Acclaimed songwriter and international great friends, Andrew Baird and Colin Vincent. performing artist, Joe Niemand’s soothing Over the past 6 years, the duo has worked with top BEST SONG OR BEST SONG OR vocals and breath-taking melodies are the directors, agencies and production houses - both golden thread throughout his expertly locally and internationally. COMPOSITION COMPOSITION crafted work. IN A TELEVISION IN A TELEVISION Their compositions and productions have reached After starting out in theatre and winning all corners of the industry from the big screen to PRODUCTION PRODUCTION Crescendo in 2002, Niemand went on and mobile; film scores to mnemonics; stage to recorded his first Afrikaans album “Vir Hom, TV shows. Aan Haar”. Follow up projects from this humble beginning include, “Reborn”, “This Proving that they have what it takes to be in the Is War”, “Glory To The King”, “Ek Sal Nie industry, the two have scooped a number Bang Wees Nie”, “Back Again” and his latest of awards along their music journey. offering “Vryheid”.

These creative individuals have also had the His albums have brought him critical privilege of working with some of the best local acclaim, prestigious awards and have artists like Claire Johnston, Kabelo, Lloyd Cele, been heard all over the world. His take on Blackbyrd, Connel Cruise and Elvis Blue. music ranges from acoustic, orchestral and cinematic in sonic scale. 25 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 26

THE SOIL MALEH

Meet The Soil, a 3-member acapella singing Known for performing with no support of This isn’t your typical fairy-tale with a hopeful she got an insight on how some of her idol artists In a search to find her own identity Maleh has NOMINATED & group whose music can be best described as musical instruments, the trio has always find promise of a “forever after”, but the story of a young performed on stage. Having dedicated a few years spent time working on a sound that would be the WINNER FOR: ‘Kasi Soul’. a way of capturing the audience through their woman destined to be one of the next big singing to discovering the realities of the music world from authentic representation of her true spirit and she irresistible compositions. talents to come out of Africa. behind the scenes, it would not be long till the continues doing so years after making her initial BEST SONG OR The Soil strives to fuse their voices to deliver stage became her playground once again. mark in the mainstream industry. COMPOSITION melodic and harmonious messages that are The group’s musical style is well showcased Maleh began her musical journey in the heart of the aimed at uplifting, and healing souls. when the three combine their talents majestic mountain kingdom of Lesotho where she Commenting on working backstage at one of South NOMINATED & IN A TELEVISION – rhythmic vocal bass line, continuous was born and raised. The songstress’ professional Africa’s most prominent jazz festivals, Standard A township acapella group, never formally beat boxing and choral music vocal style. singing career took off during her final high school Bank Joy of Jazz, she said: “I was most inspired by WINNER FOR: COMMERCIAL trained and cannot read a music note has Equivalent and certainly up to the challenge, year, when she joined Afro pop group Kaya. The artists like Chriss Botti and Lalah Hathaway when proved that if talent is neutered well, it can individually, the group members take shots group released its debut album “Kunzima” and won they performed. I knew that getting back on the BEST CREATIVE ALBUM blossom and become a real deal. Marking in solo vocal presentation, displaying their 2005 Metro FM Music Awards Best Newcomer. stage and reviving my singing career was what I OF THE YEAR NOMINATED FOR: their entry in the mainstream music industry, excellent verses implanted in each song. needed to do if I was to find purpose in my life.” the group made an impact when it performed After this short stint with Kaya, the talented BEST SOUTH AFRICAN at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. vocalist left to further her studies at a film After deciding to forsake the corporate NOMINATED FOR: DUO OR GROUP college in Johannesburg where she majored in environment, the talent was soon to be heard on Cinematograph. the airwaves on collaborations with DJ Qness on BEST FEMALE ARTIST the song Uzongilinda and ‘Time’, DJ Ganyani - ‘Not It was only when Maleh began working for events so Far’, and on the international hit ‘Falling’ which & COMPOSER production companies as an event coordinator that she worked on with DJ Kent. 27 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 28

JACK BEATENBERG PAROW

Born in Cape Town, Zander Tyler is known Jack Parow’s second album, “Eksie Ou” Outsiders may find it hard to believe that It’s also no mystery why Beatenberg has as Jack Parow, the unusual Afrikaans rapper. released in November 2011 reached Gold some of the most sublimely crafted pop music caught the attention of a growing number NOMINATED & Contrary to popular belief, his wild-fire status within 4 months of its release. A of the twenty first century has emerged from of international players, most prominently WINNER FOR: success did not happen overnight. Jack highlight from this release was the first single, South Africa. After all, the country is mostly Mumford & Sons. Parow started out rapping with crews from the ‘Hosh Tokolosh’ - an Afrikaans song to reach known for exporting culturally-rooted BEST SOUTH AFRICAN Cape Flats and has been at it for Number 1 on 5FM’s Top 40. world sounds. Arising out of a support slot on Mumford’s over a decade. 2016 South African tour, Beatenberg is DUO OR GROUP But when Beatenberg released its debut featured (along with Babaa Maal and The Like any other kid growing up, Jack Parow NOMINATED FOR: album, the band made a plan to panel beat Very Best) on two tracks on the British had studied to be a mechanic but had no music that cannot be described as a South band’s EP. luck with employment. As a result, he would BEST CREATIVE African infused sound. In the process of take on jobs like packing fish in Cape Town doing this, the Cape Town-based three Against this backdrop, it would not be to support his rap habit. Performing only for ALBUM OF THE YEAR piece - Matthew Field (vocals and guitar), overstating things to suggest that Beatenberg a beer and pizza soon changed when his Robin Brink (drums) and Ross Dorkin (bass) is poised for an international breakthrough. collaboration with Die Heuwels Fantasties on delivered a uniquely processed sound that Indeed, there’s every reason to believe that the track, ‘Die Vraagstuk’ put him effortlessly owns mainstream pop. Field, Dorkin and Brink will be South Africa’s in the limelight. first global pop success of the twenty first On its release in 2014, “The Hanging century – and that they will do this on the n 2009 Jack Parow released his first self-titled Gardens” became a showcase of what the back of a sound that’s rooted in their home full-length album that struck gold within two group can do beyond their comfort zone. At country’s indigenous styles but is unfailingly weeks of its release and went platinum within other times, the band’s uncontainable moving forward to the future. a year. Adding to his list of achievements, the musical appetite showed itself in the popular rapper has headlined major festivals traces of other genres that emerged in in South Africa and toured Europe. reggae and mbaqanga. 29 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 30 ZOLA FABIAN SOUL SING

Zola Futshane best known as ZolaSoul is an Commenting on the project, the artist said Fabian Sing is a South African music motivated approach to his work has seen afro-soul artist known for his soulfulness. In his debut album consists of songs he wrote composer for film, TV and Video Games. He him composing music for clients such as 2014, he released his first album, “Thando himself and those jotted by industry friends. is most known for his work writing original Coca Cola, KFC, Cocopops, Toyota, Nandos, Lokwenene” through Lexido Projects r On the album, he also worked with Sisa compositions for TV Commercials. Wimpy, FHM, The Fox Crime Network ecord label. Sopazi, Mavo Solomon, Luyanda Madope and SABC. and Mkhululi Ngwenda. Sing is an emotive songwriter bringing a The musician has been singing since his theatrical and epic elements to his scoring. In In 2011, Sing received his first feature film primary school days and his love for music When on stage, ZolaSoul performs with a live a very short time, he has composed scores commission to provide the score for the South could be traced back to his hometown of band consisting of Johan Mthethwa on keys, for three films: Blood Lions, Bomlambo and African horror movie Rancid. New Brighton in Port Elizabeth. Lex Futshane on bass, Tlale Makhene on Expiration, as well as the scores for three TV percussion, Cameron Ward on guitar, Jonny dramas: Mshika Shika, Room 9 and Thola. In the past, Sing has been nominated for two In 2006, the talent left his hometown for Vilakazi, Lucky Ndaba and Vusi Gcabashe as South African Music Awards (SAMA) for Best Johannesburg in quest for greener pastures. backing vocalists. Along with producing radio hits for various Engineer and Best Alternative Album. While at the city of gold, ZolaSoul started artists, he is also the Music Director for the taking guitar lessons and would attend music annual Comics Choice Awards. His highly sessions to test his singing ability. NOMINATED FOR: NOMINATED FOR:

It was through his industry involvement that BEST MALE ARTIST BEST MALE ARTIST he ended up working with R&B and neo- & COMPOSER/CO & COMPOSER/CO soul musician and producer, Afrotraction. Impressed by ZolaSoul’s musical prowess, COMPOSER COMPOSER the popular musician ended up producing most songs on “Thando Lokwenee”. 31 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 32 NAIMA TEBOGO MOTLHABI AKA THE KAY BUDDA

Afro-jazz sensation, Lungile Khumalo known Tebogo Motlhabi is a businessman with many current affairs show, Against All Odds. He NOMINATED FOR: by her stage name Naima Kay, is a 2014 South talents that work together to make him a extended his skills and jot scores for two BEST FEMALE African Music Awards (SAMA) Best Newcomer sterling brand. television soapie, Rhythm City and Scandal. winner. But where did it all begin? ARTIST & Naima Kay started singing in high school and was His first love is music production which he The following year, Motlhabi was approached a member of Ingwemabala High School Choir. gets to showcase through Motlhabi Media by Lalela Music - publishing company to COMPOSER “While all my friends were going crazy about House – a music production company he collaborate with Alan Lazar for Rolling With kwaito and dance music, I was the biggest fan established over a decade ago. The Headliners theme song. Furthermore, he of mama uBusi Mhlongo, Dorothy Masuka and jot a signature song for a drama series, Gold Miriam Makeba,” explains Naima Kay. In 2004, Motlhabi realised his dream of being Diggers and also for a sitcom called B and B. a producer of various music genres when he As she went through high school, it became worked tirelessly on a compilation album titled evident that music was her first love. Interestingly, “House of Emotions”. NOMINATED FOR: the songstress never thought she would take SONGWRITER music as a career. “Am just a young girl from a After the success of this project, the gifted small town. For me, career in the music industry producer started experimenting with different OF THE YEAR was for big town people.” sounds and worked on an album for a hip- hop group, Maganate. With this release, the But that was all to change when her singing talent group got a chance to perform alongside the was noticed by Touch Africa Records at a jazz likes HHP, the late Mandoza, Skwatter Kamp, festival held in Port Shepstone. In February 2013, Khalil and more. the songstress signed to one of the respected independent record labels and released her first In 2006, Motlhabi produced a solid house studio album, “Umsebenzi”. This was followed song, ‘Ondilibele’ which was featured on DJ by her second studio project titled, “Ngiyavuma” Sisco’s house compilation called “Capitol which cemented her name in the mainstream Collective”. From this milestone, the music music industry. doctor continued to spread his wings and went across our boarders to work with With hits such as ‘Umsebenzi’, ‘Lelilanga’ and Botswana traditional groups Dikakapa, ‘Shayizandla’, certainly, Naima Kay has not Mokorwane, Shumba Ratshega and Vee Wa only proven that one can achieve greatness Mampela. regardless of where they come from. She has also demonstrated that sometimes all it takes is one During the year of 2014, Motlhabi composed opportunity to get to where you are destined. some brilliant scores that were used on eTV’s 33 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 34 WOUTER KELLERMAN

Wouter Kellerman, a flutist from sophomore follow-up, Two Voices) made their Johannesburg, South Africa, won his first way onto 2012’s Half Moon collection. Grammy for Best New Age Album in 2015. “Winds of Samsara” - a collaboration with In 2010 his show Kellerman Colour Live won BENJAMIN American-born Indian artist Ricky Kej was the 2010 SAMA for Best Jazz/Instrumental/ a blend of Kellerman’s soothing flute and Popular Classical DVD. He followed his JEPHTA sounds from India. performance at the FIFA Soccer World Cup Closing Ceremony with concerts at At the age of ten, Kellerman began playing the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival in the flute and went on to become one of South Johannesburg and two performances at the Bassist and composer Benjamin Jephta has Jephta has also been involved in educational Africa’s youngest recognized talents. Shanghai World Expo in China. already made a name for himself as one of projects for disadvantaged youth in the Cape NOMINATED & South Africa’s premier jazz double bass and Flats and the East Rand, Johannesburg. WINNER FOR: Studying abroad, he learned to develop global Passionate about teaching and empowering electric bass players. sounds into his own improvisational style. young people, Kellerman has sponsored the The Bassist has performed with a range of BEST MALE ARTIST In 2008 he released his debut, “Colour” - a living expenses of ten children in the SOS Growing up in Mitchells Plain, it was local and international musicians including & COMPOSER/CO collection of songs inspired by global sounds Children’s Village in Ennerdale, South Africa only when he attended Muizenberg High McCoy Mrubata, Sibongile Khumalo, Paul (Argentina, Ireland, Spain and Africa) and for the past 14 years. He has also financed School that he fostered a love for jazz Hanmer, Feya Faku, Jimmy Dludlu, Simphiwe COMPOSER performed on his trademark flute. Songs from the building of a house in the SOS Children’s under the mentorship of Fred Kuit. Aside Dana, Mark Fransman, Hugh Masekela, that debut (along with a few from his 2010 Village in Rustenburg, South Africa. from performing in venues and festivals Melanie Scholtz, Marcus Wyatt, Bokani Dyer locally since the age of 15, Jephta has also and many others. SONGWRITER performed with various orchestras and small NOMINATED FOR: ensembles in Africa, Europe and Asia. In 2015, he released his album, OF THE YEAR “Homecoming” which was nominated for BEST CREATIVE A graduate of the Jazz Program at the Best Urban Jazz Album at the 15th Metro FM prestigious South African College of Music at Music Awards. ALBUM OF the University of Cape Town, Jephta currently THE YEAR spearheads two projects that play his original Enjoying the success of his hard work, in material. A six- piece African/fusion/funk 2016 Jephta performed at the Cape Town project, called the Tribe of Benjamin and his International Jazz Festival. Acoustic Quintet that plays music inspired by gospel music. 35 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 36

BLACK MOTION Black Motion came into being in the early The group signed a licensing deal with 2010 when Robert “DJ Murda” Mahosana Kalawa Jazmee Records in 2011 which saw and percussionist, Thabo “Smol” Mabogwane them releasing their first double CD album NOMINATED FOR: decided to team up and work together. The titled, “Talking to the Drums”. two had already been producing music SPECIAL AWARDS BEST SOUTH AFRICAN separately for years prior to forming 2011 was so great for the duo as they went DUO OR GROUP Black Motion. on to do remixes for DJ Qness, Black Coffee and DJeff. From the onset, this partnership led to a string of respectable productions that have been When performing, Black Motion makes use lighting up the dance-floors across the world. of vocalists and keyboard players to support Black Motion has enjoyed support from big their DJing and percussionist act. They are names in the dance music scene. rapidly gaining respect for their live acts – something that they have become famously WINNERS Their music has been featured on a number known for. of compilations including their 2011 hit single, ‘Set Me Free’ which became the favourite If the work they have done so far is anything amongst house music fans and dominated to go by, going forward, the duo will be radio stations playlists. bigger and continue to take their music to the international market. 37 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 38

GABI LE ROUX

Gabriel “Gabi” Le Roux studied theory and piano, of different colours together with the evergreen track and later added orchestral percussion and brass ‘Nkalakatha’ – a smashing hit he produced for the arrangement. Gabi Le Roux as he is famously known late kwaito veteran, Mandoza. as been composing music from the time when he was just a little boy at the age of 11. Having worked with the prime of South African talents such as Mandoza, Chiskop, Brenda Fassie and Lebo As a multi-instrumentalist, Gabi played at Hotel Mathosa, Gabi Le Roux’s has over 300 titles under Circuit in South Africa, Botswana, Swaziland, his belt, ranging from kwaito, mbaqanga and rock. Zimbabwe and toured with various bands during the 70s and 80s. In 1989 he became a producer. Since then, the legendary producer has shaped more than PROLIFIC CATALOGUE 50 Albums in different genres, including mbaqanga, OF WORKS kwaito, jazz, classical, house, rock, pop and hip-hop.

Gabi Le Roux has been an influential key role player in the South African music industry for over 20 years. Having changed the landscape of the country’s youth culture and music, his musical skills brought people 39 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 40 ABIGAIL KUBEKA

Abigail Kubeka, born 1941 in Orlando East ’s A prolific and versatile entertainer, Kubeka went on to is a South African singer, songwriter, musical perform in Philip Tabane’s award-wining Jazzmakers, arranger and actress who is known primarily for her Tshooks Tschukudu’s Elite Swingers and Mackay musical performances, especially in cabaret. Davashe’s Jazz Dazzlers. Kubeka’s career started in 1957 when, at the age of 16, Miriam Makeba, having taken notice of her talent, She performed to critical acclaim across venues invited her to join her Skylarks ensemble, which at in Africa, Europe and Asia, appearing alongside that time also comprised the legendary Letta Mbulu such stars as Eartha Kitt, Percy Sledge and Monk and Mary Rabotaba. Montgomery.

The Skylarks, together with other groups such as the Kubeka has made a major contribution to the Jazz Maniacs evolved and promoted evolution of South African music genres, and the marabi and mbaqanga styles of music. Kubeka following the destruction of Sophiatown, to keeping went on to understudy the legendary Makeba in the these musical traditions alive so that a free and famous international jazz opera King Kong, which democratic South Africa may enjoy its cultural and went on to tour Europe successfully. especially musical legacy.

In the 1960s, Kubeka accompanied musical giants LIFETIME Abdullah Ibrahim (then Dollar Brand) and Kippie Moeketsi in cabaret performances in the nightclubs ACHIEVEMENT of Hillbrow. AWARD 41 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 42 OLIVER MTUKUDZI

Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, affectionately called has performing for people from all walks of life. He has weathered storms with his sharp observations and been on several tours in the UK, US and Canada to gracious emphasis on the basic human experiences perform for large audiences. that unite us all. In 2013, he toured North America and did tons of Mtukudzi began performing in 1977 when he joined performances in different cities. He is remarkably the Wagon Wheels, a band that also featured known for his vernacular and outstanding Thomas Mapfumo. Their single ‘Dzandimomotera’ performances. Referred as both accomplished went gold and Mtukudzi’s first album “Shoko” musician and public figure, Mtukudzi has explored followed, which was also a major success. a variety of media over his long, successful career: mentored countless Zimbabwean musicians, With his husky voice, the legendary artist has produced musicals, made films and spoken out in become the most recognised voice to emerge from a soft but persuasive way on key issues affecting Zimbabwe and onto the international scene. He has Zimbabwe. earned a devoted following across Africa and beyond. In total, this legend has recorded over 56 albums and A member of Zimbabwe’s KoreKore group, Mtukudzi won more than 24 awards. sings in the nation’s dominant Shona language along with Ndebele and English. He also incorporates elements of different musical traditions, giving his BREAKING THROUGH music a distinctive style known to fans as Tuku THE BORDERS Music. Mtukudzi has toured around the world 43 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 44

ALUN RICHARDS MALEH OLIVER MTUKUDZI [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 2016 (011) 425 6450 073 317 3147 078 648 8066 0832295920 079 6623 308 WAWELA MUSIC NIK SAKELLARIDES WOUTER KELLERMAN BEATENBERG [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (011)442 8994 (011) 787 2693 (021) 797 5865 AWARDS NOMINEES 083 603 3270 083 625 0955 072 142 9831 BENJAMIN WILLEM JACK PAROW BLACK MOTION & WINNERS [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (011) 788 6141 083 233 9109 082 714 4298 082 784 4274 ORANGOTANG MUSIC BENJAMIN JEPHTA ZOLA FUTSHANE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (011) 568 0103 079 611 0415 083 235 2959 CONTACT 071 255 0680 JOE NIEMAND TEBOGO FABIAN SING [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 083 256 1323 076 073 1135 084 587 2709 THE SOIL LINDIWE MAXOLO NAIMA KAY [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DETAILS (011) 447 5199 083 434 9360 071 171 3009 LOUIS ENSIL GABI LE ROUX [email protected] [email protected] (011) 361 3020 (021) 418 0980 083 287 5190 083 960 6071 ADAM HOWARD ABIGAIL KUBHEKA [email protected] [email protected] (011) 234 3553 (011) 936 9173 082 683 3836 45 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 46 2016 WAWELA MUSIC AWARDS GALLERY 47 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 48 49 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 50 51 Wawela Music Awards 2016 Wawela Music Awards 2016 52