Tribal Echo ... Frazer Barry

"I love people," says Frazer Barry, musician and frontman of Tribal Echo, on the iStart2 Show this week. "I just want everybody to love one another. We breathe the same air, we eat from the same soil. We are different tribes, but it is my heartbeat."

"We've got so much to learn from one another and so much to give to each other. I challenge my African brothers, my coloured brothers and my white brothers on how we hang together. I know how it looks in a typical white neighborhood. You don't know how it looks in my town. Come visit me. We must make a conscious effort to embrace the unknown. You must get out of your small world."

Frazer is adamant that more muso's and artists must come together to embrace one another's culture. "We've been quiet for much too long. We must sing out, paint out and write out! I believe every South African can wave a white flag. There's different ways to getting this country to prosper again." 

The captivating lyrics of Tribal Echo's music will make you laugh, smile, cry and give you food for thought. Tribal Echo's Eclectic Roots Rock is a fresh new sound on the South African music scene, but  closely related to the indigenous sound of their (Western Cape) culture and the stories of the Western Cape people.

Listen to the full interview with Frazer Barry - aka "die Rymklets Troebadoer"

Frazer Barry with iStart2 Ambassador, Pops Mohamed. We feel a collaboration in the air!

#Woordfees gigs oppie spyskaart in Stellenbosch:
Saterdag 11 Maart
13h00 - #DieRymkletsTroebadoer, Bloekomhoek
20h30 - Tribal Echo by Amazink

Maak soes djy wiet!

Witbooi en Witboy .... Video ( Extra: Radio Interview with Conny Braam)

We are happy to share a very special souvenir of the "Witbooi and Witboy - event" held at the iStart2 Hub in Centurion on 15 February 2017. The video contains excerpts of Conny Braam and Deon Maas in discussion with Attie van Nel and Christina Landman.

Conny highlighted her journey as Chairperson of the Anti-Apartheids Beweging Nederland and told us about her new book, "Ik ben Hendrik Witbooi." Deon Maas entertained the audience with his sharp wit and explained some of the concepts in his book, "Melk die Heilige Koeie," Serious, fun evening indeed! Background music by Pops Mohamed and the iStart2Sing Artists. 

We  also had the pleasure of interviewing Conny Braam on the iStart2 Show. To listen to the interview, just click play below. Music by Coenie de Villiers and Pops Mohamed. 



Thank you to everybody who made the Centurion evening an event to remember! Let's join hands and make this world a more sustainable place. 

Voice of the feelings ... Conny Braam

In 1971 Conny Braam, together with some others, formed the Anti-Apartheidsbeweging Nederland (AABN). The AABN played an important role in the international struggle against apartheid and Braam was the leader of this organisation that offered support to the African National Congress (ANC) in exile and informed the Dutch public.

Attie van Nel in discussion with Conny Braam 

at the iStart2 Hub in Centurion (Feb 2017)

In 1986 Braam was approached by leaders of the ANC in exile and asked to assist with Operation Vula. Braam went about helping with the setting up of safe-houses inside South Africa and with arranging the smuggling of documents into South Africa. She also made contact with people inside Europe where the ANC could arrange disguises and obtain things they needed. The highly secret mission consumed five years of Braam’s life as she dodged several attempts to assassinate her. (Source: South African History Online)

Conny has just released her book on the Namaqua King, "Ik ben Hendrik Witbooi", one of nine Namibian national heroes who lead a rebellion against German rule in the country back in the early 1900's.

“He is a fascinating historical character and I would say one of the great revolutionary guerillas of Africa. He spoke an Afrikaans that is closer to Dutch and left a wealth of writing including his diaries,” says Conny.

Attie van Nel and Pierre du Toit had the honour of interviewing this incredible woman about the considerable role she played in our country's struggle for democracy. We chatted to Conny about how the AABN helped shape the freedom we live in, her views on South Africa today and her new book about Hendrik Witbooi. Do not miss what she has to say!

Tune in to the Start2 Show on Thursdays at 17h30. Radio Today broadcasts on 1485 MW (AM) in greater Johannesburg and countrywide on ‪#‎DStv‬ audio channel 869.  Radio Today also streams globally on www.1485.org.za.

Today we also feature the beautiful new instrumental song by Pops Mohamed and Coenie de Villiers, Naledi.

Have a wonderful week!

Sustainability of Artists ... Cesare Cassarino

"To make art is very expensive. I've got the soul of an artist. In my case I don't care about money at all. I learnt how to be functional and user friendly to make a living," says Cesare on the iStart2 Show this week. 

Cesare Attilio Cassarino is a bass player and composer from Johannesburg. A staple on the Johannesburg music scene since the late 80’s, he has performed in a number of varied musical situations. Cesare is a graduate of the Tshwane University of Technology where he studied Jazz. He was initially a sideman working primarily in Afrikaans music until the early 2000’s when small Jazz gigs took over the bulk of his income.

Cesare performing with Pops Mohamed

at the iStart2 Hub in Centurion

A short list of his performance credits include Somerfaan, Loyiso, Battery 9, Joos Tonteldoos en die Dwarstrekkers, Repo, Gang of Instrumentals, New Academics, Jonathan Crossley, Beukes and Delaney, Riku Latti, Anton Goosen, Jack Hammer, Die Wasgoedlyn, Michael Canfield, Alistair Coakely, Marcus Wyatt, Jazz Company, Tsunami, RJ Benjamin, Radio Kalahari Orkes, Greg Georgiades and the list goes on. When he is not busy making other people sound good or performing with Jazz Company he scours the internet for underground music and tinkers incessantly with guitar electronics.

We chatted to Cesare about what it takes to be able to make a sustainable living by doing what you love. "I want to be in the moment. I find myself wondering if I am an artist all the time," says he.

To listen to the podcast of the interview, click play below

Upcoming Shows:
KONNEXI Met: Luna Paige, Pops Mohamed, Schalk Joubert and animation Charles Badenhorst

US Woordfees, Stellenbosch
kykNET Fismer (US Konserwatorium)
6 Maart 14:00
7 Maart 17:30
8 Maart 20:30
R130. Bookings at Computicket

4 Stories, about 4 people who in some way feel disconnected from others and perhaps even from themselves. In these stories people are forced to recognize the connections that tie them to others and the things that disconnect them from what counts the most. 

These stories are told with poems, prose, music and animation art. The musical instruments include piano, guitar, bass, vocals and an array of African instruments played by Pops Mohamed. An audio-visual journey through the lives of your average South African citizen.

See you there.

Most Popular iStart2 Radio Shows of 2016

On the iStart2 Radio Show today we highlight our most popular shows of 2016!

1. Cry of Africa: Pops Mohamed and Coenie de Villiers
2. Desperation to Destiny: Dr Stanley Arumugam
3. Activism is Sexy: Kumi Naidoo
4. Rethink the Plastic Bag South Africa: Hayley Mclellan
5. Born to be Wild: Yassie ZA

Listen to our heroes in our special compilation with highlights from every show.

The iStart2 Sustainability Hero of the Year 2016:

We look forward to another 52 shows this year and endeavour to bring you interviews with the people who make a difference in Sustainability-Through-Art.

THE iStart2 SHOW

Keitu Gwangwa & Pierre du Toit host the iStart2 Show on Thursdays at 17h30. Radio Today broadcasts on 1485 MW (AM) in greater Johannesburg and countrywide on ‪#‎DStv‬ audio channel 869.

Radio Today also streams globally on www.1485.org.za.

Standing Ovation ... #iStart2Sing the Cry of Africa

Hats off to all for sharing your beautiful art and music with all of us on Friday at the Atterbury Theatre! How am I ever going to get the Happy Dancing Zombie out of my head? Thank you for touching so many different emotions. It was good to feel so damn human and proudly South African again! Thank you for making me cry Vangi! Thank you maestros, Pops and Coenie! Thank you all (Cavall, Luna, Sankobo, Tumi & ArtSpoken, Herman (!) , Ashish, Poorvi, Dudu, At, Martin, Lani, Bassbot and Helena for feeding everybody and everybody who came to see the show! Thank you for sharing the Cry of Africa! 

Some comments:

"The show last night was just amazing! World class artists showing their support for sustainability and bringing people together through the arts. It was thoroughly entertaining and awe inspiring! Thanks so much to Pierre du Toit and all the great artists as well as all the people behind the scenes who made it possible." - Anita Stander

"Was indeed amazing" - Tilana Knafo

"Wow, what an awesome experience to see the diversity of character and sound on the stage. A truly pleasant evening enjoying what is South Africa. It makes you think...." - Stuart Martin

"Loved die energie van die konsert !! Hoe meer ek daaroor dink hoe meer is ek beindruk met die kunstenaars se nederigheid en hulle oortuiging om hulle gawes uit te leef !!! Well done !!``' - Helena Laubscher

"Thanks for a beautiful show. It was a blow... what a night... it was such a beautiful day for Lesedi" - Seipati Kau

"Dit was 'n awesome show. Dit was rerig 'n belewenis. Sal more vir Pops ook geluk se - hy is "one of a kind" - Dr Harry Swart

"I start 2 see, hear and fascinasticaly enjoy the new bridges that iStart2 builds in our wounded nation. The arts touched our hearts" - Sietse van der Woude

"Thank u for a wonderful illustration that the rainbow nation is possible and that diversity is indeed strength. Love u always" - Seipati Masokoane

"Briljante vertoning. Divers. Daring. Dem lekker" - Coba Röhm

Thank you to the wonderful people at Atterbury Theatre - Paulette, Alwyn (He deserves a medal!) ... Jane and your staff - for your amazing support. We look forward to play there again next year! - Pierre du Toit. 

#iStart2Sing the Cry Of Africa ... Ulysses and ArtSpoken

Two days to go before the big night!

We are excited to introduce the younger artists who will be performing at the Cry of Africa Show on Friday evening:

As a member of the popular DNA Strings, Ulysses aka Herman Steyn knew when they disbanded that he would come back to this world of making music. As someone who loves instrumental music, he also knew it would be in that genre – one of the toughest to crack. But this energetic violinist is nothing but determined to make music – and do it his way. Herman is the founder of Sheraaz band and he will be performing solo in the upcoming show. 

From Soshanguve,  a young band, ArtSpoken, is making waves on the local music scene. Four young guys with big hearts and great new songs, combining poetry and music in a beautiful new vibe. "We are going to perform Africa and look forward to be playing with the icons like Coenie and Pops" says Tumi Resenga, the Band's Manager.

The iStart2 Radio Show Today!

Join us today on the iStart2 Show when Coenie de Villiers and Pops Mohamed chat to us about their song Naledi and their collaboration at the Atterbury Theatre on Friday night. "I often think that musicians can teach the lessons the politicians fail to show. Musicians and artists and writers can unite people by creating great works that make people listen and learn and not judge," says Coenie.

Pierre du Toit and Keitu Gwangwa host the iStart2 Show on Thursdays at 17h30 (GMT+2). Radio Today broadcasts on 1485AM in Johannesburg and nationally on DSTV audio channel 869. Radio Today also streams on its website www.1485.org.za and on 1485.mobi. Radio Today the station that cares. Radio that delivers!Book your ticket or just Check out our website on www.iStart2.com.

Afrikaans se Groot Geheim ... Pops Mohamed & Coenie de Villiers

Dit is darem so 'n besonderse voorreg om na die nuwe liedjie, Naledi - wat ster beteken in Afrikaans - op die nuwe Emoji album van Coenie de Villiers te luister. Soveel te meer omdat een van die grootste ikone in Afrikaans hier eg Suid-Afrikaanse klanke optower saam met Pops Mohamed en oom !Gubi Tietie van die Kalahari.

In die Afrikaanse leefwereld is baie min mense egter daarvan bewus dat Pops reeds twee toekennings vir sy lewenslange bydrae tot musiek ontvang het. Nog minder mense weet dat Pops se huistaal eintlik Afrikaans is. Ja, hy het groot geword in Benoni en Reygerpark aan die ooste van Johannesburg. 'n Musiek ikoon in eie reg ... nederig, maar 'n iemand wat lief is vir sy mense, sy taal en deur sy hele lewe lank sy musiek die praatwerk laat doen.

Coenie is bekend daarvoor dat hy die grense skuif in Afrikaanse musiek en met die luister na sy nuwe cd vat hierdie grootsheid jou aan die hart. Dit is nie aldag wat ons die geleentheid kry om hierdie besonderse uniekheid en kombinasie op een verhoog kan sien en hoor nie.

Op die 25ste November 2016 het jy die kans om daai magic te ervaar wat gebeur as van ons land se grootste en beste kunstenaars hul talente in een pot gooi en towerklanke gaan voortbring wat jou vir altyd sal bybly. Kom daag so bietjie jou sintuie uit met iets unieks, vars en nuuts! 

Ons hier in Afrika kan oor daai grense wat ons verdeel mekaar aan die skouer vat en die positiewe Kreet van Afrika se mense laat weergalm met die klavier, die kora, die siter, die tabla, die viool ... en die dromme van Afrika kan visioene opwek van 'n land en sy mense wat genoeg gehad het van verdeeldheid, korrupsie en die algemene politieke nonsens wat ons daaglikse lewens ontsier. Ons wil en kan vorentoe kyk en 'n toekoms bou waarop ons almal kan trots wees!

Meesterlike vertolkings deur SAMA wenner Somerfaan en sy band, woord-en-sang kunstenaar Luna Paige en Deca met 'n sexy viool en gitaar gaan defnitief jou aand opkikker. Uit Noord Afrika is daar Sankobo Afrique, Artspoken uit Soshanguve en Vangi Gantsho met haar uitdagende deurlopende woordspel wat tot diep in jou siel gaan praat. Het iemand reeds genoem dat ons land se beste tabla-speler, Ashish Joshi en die pragtige siter speler, Poorvhi Bhana jou na jou asem gaan laat snak met hul talent?

Bring sommer 'n paar van jou vriende saam en gaan eet eers lekker uit by een van die vele restaurante by Lynnwood Bridge. Die Atterbury Teater wag vir jou Vrydagaand! 

Boek daai kaartjie sommer nou! Net hier.

Kom luister gerus saam na 'n onderhoud Donderdagmiddag op die iStart2 Show, op Radio Today, wanneer Pops en Coenie saam gesels oor hul samewerking en ons meer vertel oor die Kreet van Afrika vertoning Vrydagaand by die Atterbury Teater.

The Whale Caller ... Zola Maseko

"The Whale Caller is a story about disconnection ... but whales always come back, just like clockwork," says Zola Maseko on the iStart2 Show this week. "It's a coming in from the cold kinda film. It's gonna entertain people. it's gonna move people, it's gonna make people laugh."

Pops Mohamed, composer and producer of the music score of the movie had this to say: "Big up to Zola Maseko who directed the film. He is a brilliant director with vision. I wish the whole crew from The Whale Caller including the two main actors Sello Maake KaNcube and Amrain Ismail Essop, all the best for this amazing movie. I would encourage South African movie lovers to go and watch the film which also has a bit of a Hollywood style and feel to it. A MUST SEE !!!!"

Zola Maseko moved back to South Africa in 1994 and wrote The Foreigner, a short fiction film about xenophobia in this country. In 1998 he directed The Life and Times of Sarah Baartman and released his first feature film, Drum, in 2004. Last week at the Johburg Film Festival competition, The Whale Caller, his new much anticipated film, based on the novel by Zakes Mda won the Best African Film Category and will be released early in 2017. "These stories have chosen me to birth them. Every film I make is tackling the demons. We all carry wounds that can be traced back to our childhood. I want to share the story and what it did to me."

"The world seems to be getting more conservative, more insular, more closed off. The challenges today become more about religion. Instead of becoming a more inclusive world, we are going back. Instead of opening up and accepting one another's differences, we are retreating," says Zola when asked about the biggest challenges we face as a society. He firmly believes that art has connected human beings throughout history. "Our differences can be united through Art. In order to live happily in this world we have to connect to human beings."



Being a vegan, his iStart2 message is to eat differently: "It is amazing what a change of diet has done in my life. It's all to do with healthy eating."

Listen to the interview with this inspirational man. It touches your soul. 






Don't forget to book your ticket!!

Bookings at Computicket here
See you there!

Cry of Africa - Kreet van Afrika ... Atterbury Theatre - 25 November 2016

Celebrating the Magic of Beautiful South African Music!  

 

The Cry of Africa sees top Afrikaans and Pan African together on one stage for the first time.

Music has always been an integral part of the fabric of life in Africa, but the different genres and styles of its diverse cultures are rarely seen performed in one venue. his is about to change when musicians from seemingly disparate backgrounds come together on one stage on 25 November for the last iStart2 performance for 2016.

The Cry of Africa or its Afrikaans title, Die Kreet van Afrika, is on at the Atterbury Theatre in Pretoria for one night only. Presented by iStart2, an initiative that has created a platform for people to join hands across cultural boundaries, this performance showcases musicians from Afrikaans, Indian, Southern African and Pan-African backgrounds. 

iStart2’s aim is to connect and to create practical solutions for a more sustainable future through the arts and to creatively communicate the message of sustainability to its audiences. 

Legendary multi-instrumental jazz musician Pops Mohamed is the golden thread that weaves its way through a unique musical line-up that includes singer-songwriter Coenie de Villiers, rising star Dudu Majola, alternative Afrikaans artist Somerfaan, the West African drumming sensation Sankobo Afrique, and Decca, duo Herman Steyn and Douw Steyn.

“See something unique... hear the sounds of the Kalahari ... experience the past and meet the future,” says Coenie de Villiers. “I listen to an immense amount of indigenous and African music and I respect Pops’s work very deeply. It touches me. Pops really is an idol for me. If we can move the world as artists we can create a better world for all of us.”

Join us in celebrating the power of some of South Africa`s musical icons in a showcase of the magic that happens when musicians with seemingly different cultural backgrounds take hands to create and play music together. Pops Mohamed, Coenie de Villiers, Somerfaan, Dudu Majola, Ashish Joshi, Deca, Poorvhi Bhana, Luna Paige and the beating drums of Sankobo Afrique are lined up to create a magical evening of beautiful music on Friday, 25 November 2016. Artspoken from Soshanguve and Vangi Gantsho will complete the line-up! Experience uniqueness! 

Venue: Atterbury Theatre, Daventrystraat 4, Lynnwood, Pretoria
(Cnr Lynnwood Drive and Daventry Street)

Time: 20h00

Date: 25 November 2016

Cost: R160 per ticket

Tickets available from Computicket here from Friday 28 October 2016.