Potchefstroom, sit tight! We’ve got our own Amapiano star making big moves. His name? Tshepiso Mogorosi, but you probably know him as Ta Lokii. This guy has gone from DJing on a tablet to becoming a national finalist, and the best part? He’s just getting started! Image : Received from Artist Ta Lokii From Ditaelong to the Big Stage Ta Lokii’s journey started at Ditaelong Primary School, where he studied from 2010 to 2016. He then continued at Boitshoko High School, completing his matric in 2021. But let’s be real – his real education was in beats and rhythms. His music career began in 2016 when he was inspired by none other than Black Coffee. Without DJ equipment, he made a plan and started using an app called Cross DJ on his tablet. From there, he started playing at small family gatherings and braais, quickly realizing: "This is what I’m meant to do!" Back in the Game Life happens, and in 2018, Ta Lokii took a break from the music industry. But he wasn’t done. In 2021, after completing his matric, he made a comeback. That’s when Djy King Amo SA entered the picture. Djy King Amo SA introduced him to the world of music production, and in 2022, they released their first track, Sgija Sa Potch . Then in 2023, they dropped their first EP, New Born Of Sgija , and in 2024, Show Them Flames EP  followed. But wait, there’s more – 2025 will bring the big one: his first full-length album, Another Murder From Us . Nominations and Big Moves It’s not just his fans who have noticed Ta Lokii’s talent. The Mzansi Arts and Media Awards took note and nominated him for Best Amapiano Single . And this wasn’t just a casual nomination – he made it to the finalists! But it doesn’t stop there. He’s now also nominated for Best Musical Artist  at the Mzansi Arts and Media Awards Provincial. This guy’s talent is getting the recognition it deserves, and this is only the beginning. What’s Next? With a debut album on the way and a growing fanbase, it’s clear that Ta Lokii’s name is only going to get bigger. But here’s the thing – he needs some help getting to the awards ceremony. The event is taking place on April 26 at Bedrock Valley in Hammanskraal, Pretoria, and he’s looking for support to make it there. Potchefstroom’s Pride It’s not every day that a young talent from Potch makes such a big impact in the music industry. From a guy who started DJing with a tablet and a dream to an Amapiano finalist – this is just the beginning of an incredible journey. Buckle up, because Ta Lokii is here to shake things up! Keep supporting local talent and remember – Potchefstroom has stars that shine, and we need to celebrate them! Ahh Loki Revist - Ta Lokii Social Media Pages Facebook : Click Here Instagram : Click Here Want To Support Your Local Musician To vote sms"MAMA 364" to 40439,sms only costs R2.You can vote many times as you can

Afrikaans is Groot (AiG) is veel meer as net ’n musiekkonsert — dis ’n kulturele instelling, ’n familiebyeenkoms en ’n viering van alles wat Afrikaans is. Jaarliks bring AiG die grootste name in Afrikaanse musiek bymekaar vir ’n reusagtige skouspel van lig, klank en talent. In 2025 het hierdie produksie ’n besondere betekenis: Afrikaans vier sy 100ste bestaansjaar as amptelike taal. ’n Goue Mylpaal: 10 Konserte – Almal Uitverkoop Vir die heel eerste keer ooit het die AiG-span besluit om ’n 10de konsert by die program te voeg. Hierdie bykomende vertoning is op Sondag, 16 November 2025 om 18:00 by die bekende SunBet Arena in Time Square, Pretoria. Wat hierdie jaar se aanbieding selfs meer histories maak, is dat al tien konserte binne 24 uur na kaartjieverkope geopen het, uitverkoop is. Dit is ’n ongekende prestasie — nog nooit tevore het enige Afrikaanse konsert só ’n rekord gebreek nie. Dié sukses beklemtoon die onwrikbare liefde van die publiek vir hul taal, kultuur en musiek. Foto : Coleske Group Die Sterre Skitter in 2025 Afrikaans is Groot 2025 spog met ’n indrukwekkende lys van topkunstenaars wat die verhoog gaan aan die brand sing. Vanjaar se  line-up  sluit in: Bok van Blerk Demi Lee Moore Riaan Benadé Corlea Riana Nel Chris Steyn Karlien van Jaarsveld Dodo Nyoka Ricus Nel Appel Soos altyd, hou AiG ook ’n paar verrassings agter die hand vir die aand self — ’n unieke element wat dié produksie só besonders maak. ’n Visuele Fees in Pretoria Die konserte vind plaas op die volgende datums: 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 & 16 November 2025 bySunBet Arena, Time Square, 209 Aramist Avenue, Pretoria Die produksie beloof ’n hoë-gehalte ervaring met die beste tegnologie, ligte, klank en visuele elemente. Volgens uitvoerende vervaardiger Arnold Coleske is dié jaar se aanbieding “die grootste AiG nog” en “’n gepaste huldeblyk aan 100 jaar van Afrikaans”. Die Gees van AiG: Dankbaarheid en Eenheid “Ons is oorweldig, dankbaar en geseënd,” sê Coleske. “Sonder ons gehoor is daar geen verhoog, geen ligte, geen musiek nie. Hierdie mylpaal is júlle oorwinning.” Afrikaans is Groot 2025 is ’n liefdesbrief aan Afrikaans, sy sprekers, sy kunstenaars en almal wat saam bou aan ’n toekoms waar ons taal steeds GROOT bly.

If you’ve been anywhere near a music festival line-up in the last two decades, chances are you’ve seen the name Tidal Waves . These ouens are not just a reggae band,they’re a movement. With over 100 shows a year, they’ve earned their title as the hardest working reggae band around. And no, it’s not just marketing talk. From tiny venues to massive stages, they’ve played them all, always bringing the same energy and passion. Image : Facebook Tidal Waves A Sound That’s Unmistakably African Tidal Waves don’t just play reggae,they blend it. Add some blues, mix in a bit of rock, stir in mbaqanga, and you’ve got a sound that’s uniquely theirs. The band’s lineup,Jacob ‘Jakes’ Wulana, Samuel 'Drumbo' Shoai, Shadrack Mathopa, Jaco ‘Mr’ Mans, and Johannes Papasha,work together like a well-oiled machine. Their lyrics swing between English, Afrikaans, Setswana and Tshivhenda, bringing every crowd closer, no matter where they're from. Albums That Speak Volumes With five albums to their name, Hard Work , Harmonijah , Muzik an da Method , Afrika  and Manifesto ,Tidal Waves have built a solid musical legacy. Their tracks like Rapolotiki , Mogalammakapa , and Lekker Lekker Dans  aren’t just catchy,they carry real messages. Social commentary, political spice, cultural pride,it’s all there, wrapped in irresistible rhythm. They’ve Been Everywhere (Literally) Tidal Waves aren’t strangers to passports and long flights. They’ve played in France, Germany, China, the US, New Zealand, Mozambique, and Swaziland. In 2010 alone, they were the house band at the Samas, opened for The Easy Star All Stars , and even backed Ziggy Marley  in Soweto. 2011 saw them hit Texas for the SXSW Festival and go on a full tour of the US. These guys are more global than your favourite fast food chain. Why You Shouldn’t Miss Their Next Gig A Tidal Waves show is not just a performance,it’s an experience. The music hits hard, the crowd sings along, and if you’re not dancing, you’re probably the sound guy. Ticket prices are still reasonable, and honestly, for what you’re getting, it’s a steal. So when they’re playing near you again. You’ll laugh, dance, maybe cry,definitely sweat,and leave with their songs stuck in your head. Happy Man - Tidal Waves Follow Tidal Waves on Social Media Facebook : Click Here Instagram : Click Here

JB Marks Local Municipality has officially released its 2023-2024 Annual Report, 2024-2025 Annual Budget, and Mid-Term Plan, outlining key financial, governance, and service delivery updates for the coming year. The reports highlight progress in infrastructure development, ongoing financial challenges, and strategic plans to improve municipal operations. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Municipality Reports Progress in 2023-2024 Despite Challenges The 2023-2024 Annual Report showcases significant strides in water and sanitation upgrades, road maintenance, and electrification projects . The municipality invested in replacing aging water pipelines  and expanding sanitation infrastructure  to accommodate growing communities. High-mast lighting installations  and electrification in informal settlements  were also prioritized. However, the report also acknowledges financial difficulties , with revenue collection issues and rising electricity costs  impacting municipal operations. The Eskom tariff increase (15%)  placed additional pressure on the budget, while debt collection challenges  continued to strain municipal finances. In response, the municipality introduced cost-cutting measures and improved debt enforcement strategies  to ensure financial stability . Public engagement was also strengthened, with increased efforts to involve residents in decision-making through ward committees and digital platforms . 2024-2025 Budget Focuses on Infrastructure & Financial Sustainability For the upcoming financial year, the municipality has allocated R2.26 billion  in operating revenue and R215 million  for capital projects. Water and sanitation remain a top priority , with R192 million earmarked for pipeline replacements and wastewater treatment improvements . Tariff increases  have been introduced to accommodate rising operational costs , including: Electricity:  15% increase Water, sanitation, and refuse collection:  6% increase The budget also includes major road rehabilitation projects , additional stormwater drainage improvements , and expanded electrification initiatives . Mid-Term Plan Outlines Strategic Priorities for 2024-2025 The municipality’s Mid-Term Plan  focuses on financial stability, infrastructure development, and governance reforms . Plans include: Enhanced revenue collection strategies  to improve municipal cash flow. Expansion of service delivery , particularly in water provision and sanitation infrastructure . Improved road maintenance  and stormwater drainage systems. Stronger financial oversight and transparency measures  to prevent mismanagement. Municipal leaders have emphasized the need for innovative solutions to address revenue shortfalls , including partnerships with private investors and national government funding applications . The 2023-2024 Annual Report  and 2024-2025 Mid-Term Report  are now publicly available for review. These documents provide key insights into the organization's performance, financial status, and strategic initiatives. Interested individuals can access the full reports on the official website or obtain hard copies from designated offices. For convenience, the PDF has also been uploaded in above sections for direct viewing. Looking Ahead Despite economic challenges, the municipality remains committed to improving service delivery and financial sustainability . Officials have called for public cooperation in ensuring municipal payments are made on time  to strengthen the financial position of the municipality. With key infrastructure projects in the pipeline and governance improvements underway, JB Marks Local Municipality aims to build a stronger, more resilient future for residents . #TheGoToGuy   #potchefstroom   #potchgazette   #stroomstories   #JBMarks

Tucked away in the North West province of South Africa, Potchefstroom is a town rich in history, academia, and creativity. While many know it for its university and cultural heritage, fewer are aware of the vibrant art scene that pulses quietly beneath the surface. This article explores the painters—both seasoned and emerging—who call Potchefstroom home, offering a glimpse into the town’s artistic soul and the individuals who continue to shape it, one brushstroke at a time. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations A Town with a Creative Heart Potchefstroom may be best known for its academic institutions and heritage buildings, but beneath the surface lies a thriving community of painters. From expressive portraiture to bold mixed-media work, the town has produced a variety of talented artists whose creativity stretches far beyond its borders. Whether they are teaching, exhibiting, or selling their work, these painters continue to shape Potchefstroom’s artistic identity in meaningful ways. Rising Stars on the Local Scene Among the most active painters today is Christiaan Krüger, known for his detailed representational oil paintings. He regularly exhibits in Potchefstroom and accepts commissioned work via his website. Another standout is Jonel Scholtz, a contemporary painter with a soft, emotive style. Her portraits often explore themes of love and vulnerability. Scholtz has held solo exhibitions locally and sells her work internationally online. She also teaches, helping to grow the next generation of artists in Potch. Bold and Unconventional Expressions Younger artists like Reece Swanepoel are pushing boundaries with their work. His grotesque, figurative paintings challenge traditional ideas of beauty and identity. Having exhibited both locally and internationally, Swanepoel has quickly gained recognition. Franscois Potgieter, who creates under the name “The Mind Is Right”, blends painting with installation and product design. His work, which includes custom lighting and large mixed-media projects, has even found a home in luxury hotels abroad. The Legacy of Experience Potchefstroom’s art scene wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the contributions of retired artists. Johanna Prinsloo, active since the 1970s, exhibited widely and founded a local art school called ArtKat. Her paintings have been part of both public and private collections, and she played a key role in arts education. Another influential figure is André de Beer, a former lecturer turned full-time artist. His work, rich in character and color, ranges from landscapes to portraits. He also made a name for himself as a political cartoonist in the 1970s. A Canvas that Keeps Growing Together, these artists—both past and present—demonstrate that Potchefstroom is more than just a university town. It’s a place where art is created, nurtured, and celebrated. From gallery walls to online platforms, Potchefstroom’s painters continue to make their voices heard, telling stories through color, texture, and emotion. Whether you're a collector, a casual admirer, or simply curious, the art scene in this town offers something worth discovering.

Potchefstroom – a historic university town in South Africa’s North West province, has quietly nurtured a remarkably diverse music scene over the past three and a half decades. From soulful gospel harmonies rising out of church choirs to the electrifying riffs of Afrikaans rock echoing in student bars, the city’s musicians have made an outsized cultural impact. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Between 1990 and 2025, Potchefstroom has produced talents across gospel, rock, classical, hip-hop, jazz and more, fostering both famous artists and local heroes. This article journeys through the stories of Potchefstroom’s musicians – those born in the city or drawn to its stages – highlighting early struggles, breakthrough moments, unique styles, and community influence, all against the backdrop of a supportive local scene of venues, festivals and institutions like the NWU Conservatory. Gospel Roots and Choral Traditions In Potchefstroom’s township of Ikageng, gospel music has long been a source of community pride and spiritual solace. During the 1990s and beyond, local “clap and tap” choirs,known for their rhythmic clapping and rich vocal harmonies – flourished. One example is the Banyorilweng Gospel Choir, a community ensemble founded in Ikageng that unites amateur vocalists in joyous song​. Groups like these regularly perform at churches and community halls, keeping alive a tradition of African gospel that blends faith with infectious rhythm. Their performances, often in seTswana or seSotho, have become a Sunday staple and a means for young and old to cope with life’s challenges through music and fellowship. Even without national fame, these choirs’ local influence has been profound ,inspiring youth participation and strengthening cultural ties in Potchefstroom’s townships. Choral excellence in Potchefstroom isn’t limited to informal groups. The city boasts a proud university choir tradition as well. The North-West University (NWU) PUK Choir (formerly Potchefstroom University Choir) has consistently shone on the international stage. In 2019, this student choir from Potchefstroom won top honors at the Prague Advent and Christmas Choral Festival, taking first place and a gold award in the big mixed choir. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Such victories underscore a long heritage of choral music in the city , one that often begins in childhood. In fact, many Potchefstroom singers get their start early: TV presenter and singer Katlego Maboe, for instance, joined the North West Children’s Choir in 1998 while still in primary school​. This early immersion in structured choral singing laid the groundwork for his later musical pursuits. By his university years, Maboe had become a lead vocalist and beatboxer for the acclaimed a cappella group Flip a Coin, with whom he recorded three albums​. His journey – from Ikageng’s local school choirs to winning national singing awards and entertaining millions on television,exemplifies how Potchefstroom’s choral and gospel foundations can launch lifelong passions. Local churches and institutions have provided important platforms for gospel talent. The city’s African Methodist Episcopal Church in Ikageng, for example, not only hosted worship music but even became a canvas for the artistic talents of musicians , legendary jazzman Rex Rabanye (discussed later) painted murals on its walls as a young man .  And at North-West University’s main campus, the NWU Conservatory has regularly hosted choir concerts and hymn recitals, often filling its historic oak-paneled hall with the sounds of sacred music. The Conservatory itself is a Potchefstroom landmark: established in 1949 when the Potchefstroom University purchased a local music school, it was “regarded as one of the most important music institutions in the Transvaal” at the time​ .  This institute has continued to train vocalists and choir conductors, ensuring that the city’s gospel and choral traditions remain vibrant. Jazz and Soul: The Legacy of Rex Rabanye No story of Potchefstroom’s music scene is complete without Rex Rabanye, the late jazz, fusion, and soulful pop maestro whose career bridged the apartheid era and the new South Africa. Born in Potchefstroom in 1944, Micheal Morake “Rex” Rabanye honed his craft in the township of Ikageng, where as a teenager he co-founded a band called The Teenage Lovers​ . In the late 1960s, this band became Ikageng’s pride, a “hot soul band” that was to Potchefstroom what the famous Alexandra soul groups were to Johannesburg​ . Rex was the keyboard wizard of the group, wowing audiences with his deft organ solos (a skill learned from his father) and a distinctive “bee-hive” organ sound that earned him fans nationwide​. The Teenage Lovers scored several hits ,instrumental soul tracks like “Potchefstroom Road,” “Botany 500,” and “Mmabatho” became local classics, even achieving platinum status in South Africa. At a time when mainstream venues were often closed to black musicians, The Teenage Lovers’ success was a beacon of pride, and their song “Potchefstroom Road” immortalized the town in song. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations When The Teenage Lovers disbanded, Rex Rabanye forged on as a solo artist, reinventing himself in the 1980s with a series of chart-toppers. He released O Nketsang (1986) – whose title track “O’Nketsang” became a dynamite hit, followed by albums like Moya Moya (1987)​. These soulful pop-jazz tunes, sung in vernacular, became staples at weddings and parties across Southern Africa, and indeed “to date ‘O Nketsang’ remains one of the favorite songs during African weddings”. Rabanye’s music often played on Radio Bantu and later Radio Mmabatho, making his smooth keyboard melodies part of the soundtrack of life for many in the late 20th century. Beyond his recorded legacy, Rex Rabanye’s personal journey resonates deeply in Potchefstroom. Despite living in a harsh apartheid era and later suffering health issues (he tragically lost his hearing late in life), Rabanye’s passion never waned​. In 2006, the South African Music Awards honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing how he had “inspired a whole generation of keyboardists” and contributed enormously to the music industry​. When he returned to Potchefstroom in his final years, locals celebrated him as a hometown hero. He passed away at home in Potchefstroom in 2010​, but his legacy lives on: ask any jazz band in town to play an instrumental, and chances are they’ll slip into the unmistakable groove of “Potchefstroom Road.” Rabanye’s story,from church-trained boy to nationwide soulman – continues to inspire young Potchefstroom musicians, reminding them that even from a small town, one can reach the national stage. Afrikaans Rock Revolution on Campus By the late 1990s, while jazz and gospel thrived, Potchefstroom’s rock scene was waiting for a spark. The spark arrived in the form of Afrikaans alternative rock. A pivotal moment came with the launch of Aardklop National Arts Festival in 199, a major arts festival hosted in Potchefstroom every spring. Aardklop (meaning “earth beat”) quickly grew from 15,000 visitors in its first year to over 150,000 annually, and it provided a platform for Afrikaans music outside the strict commercial circuit. During Aardklop’s early years, Potchefstroom saw performances by the country’s top artists and novel collaborations. For instance, the 2003 festival featured the Castle Loud OppiAarde Rock Festival at the university’s Rag Farm, showcasing not only Afrikaans rock acts but also English and international artists in a multi-genre rock marathon​ . The presence of these festivals transformed the “otherwise quiet student town” into a seasonal musical hotspot​. Amid this growing energy, a group of Potchefstroom students decided to start an original band – something beyond the usual campus cover bands playing weddings and pubs. In August 2006, the Straatligkinders were born, and they would spearhead nothing short of a Potch-rock revolution. “When Potchefstroom was accustomed to cover bands… a musical revolution started in the small university and mining town when rock band Straatligkinders emerged,” writes one local chronicler​. The name Straatligkinders (Afrikaans for “Streetlight Children”) soon became synonymous with the city. Led by four friends – Bouwer Bosch (vocals), Benjamin de Jager (guitar), Hein Kruger (bass), and Ruan Kruger (drums) – the band lit up Potchefstroom with a fresh, youthful sound that mixed post-hardcore punk energy with Afrikaans lyrics and melody​. This blend, sometimes dubbed “Afrikaans-core,” was completely new on campus radio in 2006 and quickly struck a chord with Afrikaans youth. Bouwer Bosch’s raw screams and emotive vocals on songs like “Die Beskermer” became anthems for a generation​. Notably, Straatligkinders recorded the music video for “Die Beskermer” in a Potchefstroom factory and premiered it on MK89 (the alternative music TV channel) in early 2007,a sign that they were proudly rooted in their hometown even as they reached national airwaves. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations The rise of Straatligkinders was rapid and extraordinary. They launched their first EP in Potchefstroom to a raucous local crowd and soon began touring to Pretoria, Johannesburg, and beyond​. In 2008, their debut full-length Bloeisels spawned hit singles that topped the MK Top 10 chart for week. By 2009, these Potch rockers had secured multiple music awards: they won an ATKV Award for Best Newcomer in 2008 and several VAMT Awards (a local music award in the Afrikaans scene) including Best Alternative Group​. They were even crowned Group of the Year and earned a “Campus Hit of the Year” honor at the national MK Awards in 2009​ , a public-voted recognition that affirmed their beloved status among students countrywide. All of this was achieved while the band members were still in or just out of university. The Potchefstroom streets they once roamed as students were now filled with hometown pride, as Straatligkinders showed that a band from a small academic city could rock as hard as any big-city act. Straatligkinders’ success had a ripple effect. It “shaped a big part of the Potchefstroom music culture”, as one commentator noted, injecting positivity and inspiring other local musicians to write original material​   . Former members and contemporaries started side projects and new bands, creating a mini music scene in Potch. For example, drummer Ruan Kruger joined a quirky electronic-rock outfit called Ekhouvanjou, Oké!, known for playful Afrikaans lyrics and danceable beats​ . And when Straatligkinders took a brief hiatus later, some members formed Moses Metro Man with a new vocalist, continuing to dominate the campus charts on MK TV. The creative momentum kept building. By the 2010s, Potchefstroom had produced yet another national act: Monark, a polished pop-rock band that achieved mainstream commercial success. Hailing from Potchefstroom, Monark burst onto the South African scene in 2013 with the hit single “Smiling”, announcing themselves with slick production and a soaring melodic sound. Fronted by vocalist Eugene Coetzer and producer/guitarist Ewald Jansen van Rensburg (both NWU alumni), Monark delivered a string of radio hits , in fact, they notched eight consecutive Top 10 singles on South African radio​. Their debut album Negatives earned three SAMA nominations, including Record of the Year for “Build It Up”. This level of pop achievement was unprecedented for a Potchefstroom-formed band. Monark’s rise from a local band to a major label success story mirrored the band members’ own journey from small-town students to pop stars. Even as they relocated to bigger cities to further their careers, Monark remained proud of their roots; press releases always cited them as a “pop rock band from Potchefstroom” returning to shake up the industry. Crucial to the rock scene’s growth were the venues and platforms that Potchefstroom offered. The campus radio station PUK FM 93.6 gave airtime to student bands and hosted Battle-of-the-Bands contests, often serving as the first place new songs were heard. Student hangouts like Bourbon Street and Aandklas (a bar on “die Bult,” the student district) held live music nights where bands cut their teeth. And each year, Aardklop festival’s music stages (like the OppiAarde rock showcase) would feature local Potch talent alongside national acts, giving invaluable exposure. By fostering a tight feedback loop between artists and an enthusiastic local audience, Potchefstroom became known as a breeding ground for Afrikaans rock creativity. What started with Johannes Kerkorrel strumming a guitar in a Potchefstroom café decades earlier had evolved into a full-blown music movement. (Indeed, Johannes Kerkorrel ,real name Ralph Rabie, had been a journalism student at Potchefstroom University in the early 1980s, performing in local restaurants and dreaming of stardom​. He later became a pioneer of the anti-establishment Voëlvry movement, proving early on that Potch could produce revolutionary art.) By 2025, the city’s rock legacy is secure: its “streetlight children” grew up and carried Potchefstroom’s name onto festival line-ups and award stages across the country. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Hip-Hop and Urban Sounds in a “Sleepy Town” While Afrikaans rock was booming in the 2000s, another musical revolution was quietly taking root in Potchefstroom’s streets: hip-hop. For years, the hip-hop scene in Potch was underground – freestyles at campus events, rap battles at local nightclubs, and mixtapes passed around among friends. But in the 2010s, a few trailblazers put Potchefstroom hip-hop on the map. One of the first was Ginger Trill (born Tshegofatso Seroalo), often hailed as Potch’s first rapper to break into the national mainstream​. Growing up in Potchefstroom, Ginger Trill started rhyming at age 14 and spent his high school years in the mid-2000s “making music and cutting demos” with friends​. He fell in love with hip-hop during these humble sessions, though it wasn’t until his early twenties that he fully committed to pursuing music. His dedication paid off: Ginger Trill (formerly known as Ginger Breadman) developed a reputation for razor-sharp lyricism and authentic storytelling. By the late 2010s he had released several acclaimed projects and won awards in the hip-hop community (he’s a multi-award nominated artist, and winner of SA Hip-Hop Award mixtape honors). In a 2019 interview, he reflected on his journey from Potchefstroom, noting the “school of hard knocks” he graduated from – a reference to the challenges of coming up in a small town with no big studios or record labels. Ginger Trill’s tenacity and “lyrical prowess”​ , eventually earned him a deal with an indie label in Johannesburg, and by 2025 he was a respected veteran, having recently signed with the powerhouse label STAY LOW to further cement his legacy​. Through it all, he carried Potchefstroom on his back, often shouting out the town (area code 018) in his lyrics and mentoring younger rappers from the area. A notable moment in Potchefstroom’s hip-hop story came in 2021 when Boitumelo “Boity” Thulo, one of the town’s most famous daughters, released the hit single “018’s Finest.” Boity, widely known as a television personality and model, surprised many when she launched a rap career in 2018 with the banger “Wuz Dat?”​ . But rap wasn’t just a gimmick for her – she quickly proved her mettle, signing with Def Jam Africa in 2020 and dropping an EP titled 4436 (a reference to her grandmother’s phone number)​. The EP earned a South African Music Award nomination for Best Hip-Hop Album, marking Boity as a serious player in the genre. In 018’s Finest, Boity made her pride in Potchefstroom explicit. The song’s title is a nod to Potch’s dialing code, and she brought fellow North West rappers Maglera Doe Boy (from nearby Klerksdorp) and Ginger Trill on board to celebrate the local   scene. The music video, shot on location in Potchefstroom, is “a nostalgic piece of art” showcasing Boity’s return to her hometown’s streets​. It highlights “lesser known aspects of hip-hop culture in [this] otherwise sleepy town,” from kids breakdancing on township corners to graffiti-tagged walls​ . In one symbolic scene, Ginger Trill appears beside Boity to give his blessing – a “fitting anointing” since he was Potch’s original hip-hop trailblazer​. The collaboration was more than just a song; it was a moment of hometown unity, bridging generations of artists. As music journalist Nobantu Shabangu put it, the video “captures the pride Potch natives have for their own, marking Boity as their queen” and is an “overall celebration of [her] homecoming.”​ ​ Beyond Boity and Ginger Trill, Potchefstroom’s hip-hop ecosystem continues to grow. In recent years, local rap cyphers and events like “Rap Your Hood” have popped up, giving unseen talent a chance at the spotlight​. Young MCs from Ikageng spit verses about daily life in Potch, mixing English, Setswana, and Afrikaans slang – a style similar to the Motswako movement that the North West province is famous for (the province produced giants like HHP and Khuli Chana, who undoubtedly inspired Potch’s artists). Potchefstroom may not yet have a dedicated hip-hop festival, but its proximity to Johannesburg means ambitious rappers can network and perform in the big city while still cultivating a local fanbase. With Boity’s success blazing a trail for female rappers and Ginger Trill’s continued mentorship, the pipeline from Potchefstroom’s streets to South Africa’s hip-hop charts is now firmly established. What was once an unlikely locale for rap has proven it can raise hip-hop stars too – in Boity’s words, “018’s finest” are stepping forward. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Classical Music and Academic Influence Amid the popular genres, Potchefstroom has also been a bastion of classical music training and performance, thanks largely to the presence of the North-West University School of Music & Conservatory. The city’s classical music roots stretch back over a century – the first recorded music recital in Potchefstroom took place in 1863,and professional music education began in earnest in 1914 with the founding of the Potchefstroom College of Music​. This legacy was cemented when the university (then known as Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education) established the Conservatory building in 1950 on the site of an old mill, making Potchefstroom one of the earliest South African towns with a dedicated music school​. Generations of classical pianists, violinists, and singers have passed through its halls. By the 1990s and 2000s, the NWU Conservatory and School of Music were producing graduates who would shine both locally and abroad. One such alumnus is Kobie van Rensburg, who exchanged a budding career in law for the opera stage. Born in Johannesburg but educated at Potchefstroom University, van Rensburg became a “world-renowned tenor, musician, teacher and director,” performing over 50 leading roles on international opera stages. After completing multiple degrees (he famously finished a law degree cum laude in 1992 before music fully won his heart), van Rensburg moved to Germany and conquered the European opera circuit, singing under legendary conductors like Sir John Eliot Gardiner and James Levine​ . Yet, he never forgot Potchefstroom ,he returned in 2010 and 2016 to stage opera productions in Ikageng as part of a community outreach project​, bringing Mozart and Verdi to local youth who might never have experienced opera otherwise. His story highlights how Potchefstroom’s music training can lead to global acclaim, and how those artists often give back to the community that shaped them. The NWU Conservatory has also been a hub for instrumental excellence. Its faculty and students regularly perform in the city – whether in formal classical concerts or at events like the annual Aardklop festival (which always includes classical recitals in its program). Over the years, Potchefstroom has hosted chamber music soirées, piano masterclasses, and even organ festivals (the Conservatory houses a magnificent pipe organ that has been used since mid-century). Student orchestras and wind bands from NWU have performed for the public, often at the Conservatory’s Hennie Bingle Auditorium. These events, though not always making national news, contribute to a cultured atmosphere in the town and offer classical musicians a chance to develop their craft in front of appreciative audiences. Potchefstroom’s academic milieu has produced notable composers and scholars as well. The NWU School of Music established an Information Centre for Southern African Music (ISAM) and has nurtured composers who incorporate indigenous sounds into classical forms​. Moreover, NWU alumni have excelled in academic competitions; for example, baritone Tshilidzi Ndou, who earned his music degrees at NWU Potchefstroom, went on to win the prestigious George Shirley Vocal Competition in the USA in 2022, showcasing the global competitiveness of training received in Potchefstroom. The city’s classical scene extends to school and youth orchestras as well. Potchefstroom Boys High and Girls High have long had music programs that feed talent to the university. The presence of the Conservatory means even local amateurs can take graded music exams or attend theory classes. This cross-pollination of community and academia is unique to Potchefstroom. It’s not uncommon to find a professor emeritus playing cello alongside a teenage prodigy in the Potch Civic Orchestra during a summer concert. In essence, classical music in Potchefstroom has created a quiet but powerful undercurrent to the more popular sounds. It provides the city with well-rounded musical credentials – a place where a Saturday might see a philharmonic matinee at the Conservatory and a rock show on the Bult in the evening. The NWU Conservatory, nearing 75 years old, continues to be the heartbeat of this classical community, ensuring that Potchefstroom’s musical heritage is as much Mozart and Marimba as it is Mafikizolo or Motswako. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations From Local Stages to Global Arenas The period from 1990 to 2025 demonstrates that Potchefstroom’s music scene is more than the sum of its parts – it’s a living tapestry woven by church choristers, campus rockers, opera singers, bedroom producers, and street poets. Each genre’s story intersects with the others, creating a supportive ecosystem. Gospel singers who started in church joined academic choirs at NWU; rock band members dipped into folk and electronic side projects; classically trained instrumentalists lent their skills to pop productions. A great example of cross-genre fertilization is Flip a Coin, the a cappella group Katlego Maboe belonged to. Their repertoire ranged from classical choral pieces to pop covers, and their members (students from various fields) would later venture into careers as diverse as TV hosting, accounting, and professional music showing how music in Potchefstroom is a shared passion that cuts across professions. Notably, Potchefstroom has also produced behind-the-scenes talent in the music industry. Robby De Sá, for instance, grew up in Potch (attending Potchefstroom Boys High and NWU) and has gone on to become a successful songwriter and music producer, now based in Sydney​. Born in the late 1980s, De Sá’s first forays into music were likely influenced by the town’s vibrant scene. Today, he boasts writing/production credits for international pop acts like The Veronicas and 5 Seconds of Summer. His journey from a small South African town to global pop music studios is a testament to the solid foundation Potchefstroom can give an artist. It’s quite something that a single town has reared both a traditional Sotho gospel choir and a Billboard-charting pop producer. Potchefstroom’s venues and festivals deserve recognition for sustaining this tapestry. The annual Aardklop Arts Festival, despite a brief relocation, ultimately remained rooted in Potchefstroom and continues to draw national artists and spotlight local ones​. Its stages have seen everything from rock reunions to jazz improvisations. Meanwhile, smaller annual events – a jazz night at the Trim Park here, a gospel “praise picnic” there – keep music in the air year-round. Pukke Rag (the university’s RAG week) often features music concerts for charity, where budding artists get their first taste of a big stage. And let’s not forget the humble “open mic” nights at student cafés, which have persisted through the decades; many a Potchefstroom singer-songwriter first strummed a guitar in public at the legendary Die Draaikraal or Oom Louw’s open mic, earning their stripes before moving on to bigger things. As of 2025, Potchefstroom finds itself with a rich musical heritage and an exciting future. The city has given South Africa household names in entertainment (from Jurie Els in yesteryears to Boity today), but it has also kept a thriving local scene where the next generation is continually incubating. In the neighborhoods of Ikageng and Mohadin, you might find a hip-hop cypher or a new gospel ensemble practicing after school. On campus, PUK FM still spins local demos, and the Conservatory’s practice rooms ring with scales and arpeggios as diligently as ever. The NWU School of Music now also offers contemporary music courses, meaning a student can train in jazz or music technology in Potchefstroom, not just classical performance – a sign of evolving times. What makes Potchefstroom’s music story special is the sense of community. Artists here often collaborate across genre lines and support each other’s shows. A rock guitarist will attend a classical recital; a choir singer will cheer on a DJ at a campus festival. This mutual support was clearly on display in Boity’s “018’s Finest” project, where an entire hometown rallied to put itself on the hip-hop map. There is a palpable pride that transcends style, a pride that says, “We are from Potch, and we have something to sing.” The notable musicians and their achievements summarized below offer just a snapshot of this era, but behind each name is a network of fans, mentors, and fellow performers who all form part of the tale. In a world where big cities often dominate the arts, Potchefstroom stands out as a “small town with a big sound.” Its mix of university culture, Afrikaner heritage, and township resilience created fertile ground for music between 1990 and 2025. The early gospel groups kept hope alive through song; the rockers of the 2000s shattered expectations and built a regional scene; the classical musicians brought global renown; the hip-hop artists added new voices to the chorus. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Conclusion Over the past 35 years, Potchefstroom has proven that a small South African city can produce a big, diverse sound. Its music scene is a rich interplay of university influence, cultural heritage, and youthful innovation. From the resonant halls of the NWU Conservatory to the lively taverns of the Bult and the soulful churches of Ikageng, Potchefstroom’s melodies have touched lives both locally and around the world. The city’s artists – famous and unsung alike – illustrate the power of community in the arts. Their stories of collaboration and perseverance create a narrative as compelling as their music. As Potchefstroom moves forward, its stage is set for new chapters in this ongoing musical tale, one that will continue to celebrate the beat of the earth  – the aardklop – in every note.

Two giants of South African rugby, Siya Kolisi and Dr Rassie Erasmus, stood side by side in Potchefstroom this week, not on a rugby field but at the unveiling of two new student residences at North-West University (NWU). The event was more than just an honorific ceremony—it was a moment of reflection on leadership, perseverance, and the far-reaching impact of sport beyond the try line. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Kolisi, the first black captain of the Springboks and a two-time Rugby World Cup champion, saw his name etched into history yet again with the opening of the Siya Kolisi Residence . The residence will house students affiliated with the NWU Rugby Institute, a fitting tribute to a man who has become the face of resilience in South African sport. In his speech, Kolisi spoke with humility, reminding students that their opportunities extend beyond rugby. His words carried weight—spoken not as a man resting on his laurels, but as someone acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with success. Image Credit: NWU On the other hand, Dr Rassie Erasmus, the master tactician who orchestrated South Africa’s back-to-back World Cup triumphs, was honored with the unveiling of Invictus Residence , a multi-sport residence named after the Latin word for ‘unconquered’. The symbolism was evident—Erasmus, known for his ability to rally and inspire, remains a towering figure in South African rugby, not just for his technical acumen but for his ability to see potential where others might not. Image Credit: NWU While Kolisi’s message focused on personal perseverance and the importance of using one’s platform for good, Erasmus delivered a rallying call to students, encouraging them to embrace the ethos of their new home—determination, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. As the strategist behind South Africa’s recent golden era in rugby, Erasmus’ legacy is as much about leadership as it is about silverware. Image Credit: NWU NWU Vice-Chancellor Prof Bismark Tyobeka underscored the significance of the moment, highlighting the role both men have played in uniting a nation through sport. The echoes of their triumphs, the gripping victories against the odds, and the powerful image of Kolisi lifting the Webb Ellis Cup were not lost on the audience. Image Credit: NWU The unveiling of these residences marks more than just the addition of two new buildings to the university’s landscape. It is a reminder that greatness is not solely measured in championships, but in the ability to inspire. As young athletes and students step into these residences, they are not just occupying rooms—they are inheriting a legacy built on discipline, vision, and the unyielding belief that nothing is impossible. Rassie and Siya—two names, two journeys, one unbreakable legacy. #TheGoToGuy   #potchefstroom   #pothcgazette   #stroomstories   #newstalk   #Siya   #Rassie

Potchefstroom, a university town rich in cultural heritage and creative expression, continues to nurture a vibrant yet often overlooked artistic community. From painters and photographers to musicians, poets, and performers, a new generation of artists is making its mark on the local and national stage. Below is a curated overview of visual, performing, and literary artists currently based in Potchefstroom whose work reflects bold expression, community engagement, and promising potential. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Visual Artists (Painters, Sculptors, Photographers) Reece Swanepoel – Painter & Mixed-Media Artist An expressive and boundary-pushing young artist, Reece specializes in painting, drawing, and mixed media with a strong focus on grotesque yet compelling figurative work. His art explores themes such as order versus chaos and deep emotional expression, inviting viewers to question perception and identity. Nikki Nel – Painter A prominent voice in Potchefstroom’s emerging art scene, Nikki Nel is both a painter and art educator. Her work showcases experimentation and youthfulness, reflecting what she describes as the "playfulness and fresh ideas" of local young artists. She has exhibited with the Potchefstroom Art Society and actively promotes local art initiatives. Jonel Scholtz – Fine Artist Jonel Scholtz is known for emotive oil paintings that frequently portray figurative subjects and intimate interior scenes. Her work reflects themes of home, femininity, and emotional resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she transitioned her teaching and sales online, with her artwork "Wisdom" selected for an international lockdown-themed exhibition. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Performing Artists (Musicians, Dancers, Actors) Red Wine Acoustics – Acoustic Band Founded in 2015, Red Wine Acoustics is a four-piece group known for their heartfelt performances blending folk, pop, and acoustic rock. Their warm vocal harmonies and live presence have made them a popular feature at Potchefstroom cafés and open-air events. Werries JvR – EDM Producer/Performer An NWU student by day and EDM artist by night, Werries (Hendrik van Rensburg) infuses quirky humor and bold energy into his danceable electronic compositions. He gained recognition during the 2023 Potch Unplugged competition. AV Raincandy – Singer/Songwriter & Dancer AV Raincandy burst onto the Potchefstroom music scene with a dynamic combination of vocal talent and stage performance. Her 2024 single "Bawo" (produced by DJ SNEJA) blends Afro-pop and R&B, showcasing her unique style and growing influence in regional music circles. Alonso Grandío – Actor Originally from Mexico City, Alonso relocated to Potchefstroom in 2017 and has since brought his international acting experience to South African stages and screens. He has appeared in various local productions, including the Afrikaans soap Binnelanders, and contributes actively to community theatre. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Literary Artists (Poets, Writers, Spoken Word) Joseph “Zenzo” Nkaki – Poet & Spoken Word Performer Known for his raw and emotive poetry, Zenzo has been a staple at local events. When pandemic restrictions halted live performances, he pivoted to digital platforms to share his work and maintain artistic momentum. Anga Nkhwashu – Performance Poet Winner of the 2023 NWU Potchefstroom BUA! Poetry Slam, Anga balances a science degree with an emerging reputation for multilingual poetry. His thought-provoking performances have earned him recognition across NWU campuses. Honest Madibo – Author A retired Ikageng teacher, Honest Madibo turned to writing in her sixties. Her debut book "Who Am I?" was launched at the Potchefstroom Museum in 2020. Her work is deeply spiritual and motivational, with a second book currently in progress. BUA Poetry Sessions – Collective BUA (meaning “speak” in Setswana) is a collective supported by NWU’s creative writing program. It hosts multilingual poetry slams, open mic events, and workshops to foster spoken-word talent among Potchefstroom’s youth. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations These individuals and collectives represent the creative heartbeat of Potchefstroom. Their diverse talents and commitment to authentic expression continue to shape the town’s identity as a growing hub for the arts. Sources: stopwatchgallery.com , threestreamsmedia.com , jonelscholtz.co.za , facebook.com , soundcloud.com, citizen.co.za , news.nwu.ac.za , and other referenced profiles as linked above.

Dodo Nyoka het pas sy splinternuwe liedjie, “Jannaman”, bekendgestel – ’n diep persoonlike en betekenisvolle lied wat hy opdra aan sy pa. Foto : Coleske Group ’n Liedjie van Inspirasie: Dodo bring hulde aan sy pa, Jannaman Hierdie unieke country-reggae snit is ’n huldeblyk aan sy pa, Jannaman, wie se deursettingsvermoë en onbreekbare gees hom sy hele lewe lank inspireer.“Die liedjie gaan oor my pa Jannaman wat nooit opgee,” vertel Dodo oor die spesiale liedjie wat hy self geskryf het. Sterspan Agter die Skerms: Jacques Marcel van Vuuren se invloed Die produksie is behartig deur Jacques Marcel van Vuuren, wat reeds sy stempel afgedruk het met treffers soos “Country Girl van Bloem” en “Ek Verstaan”.“My pa is die inspirasie agter die liedjie,” sê Dodo. “Ek het hierdie liedjie gekies want ek wou iets vir my pa gee wat vir ewig sal hou.” Musiek Met ’n Siel: Dodo wil aanhangers nader bring Sy opregte woorde en die sielvolle klanke van “Jannaman” beloof om nie net sy pa te raak nie, maar ook elke luisteraar wat ’n diep band met hulle geliefdes koester.Met hierdie liedjie wil Dodo sy aanhangers nader aan hom bring. “Mense moet voel asof hulle my al ontmoet het deur my musiek,” verduidelik hy. ’n Persoonlike Hoogtepunt: Dodo se trots op “Jannaman” Hy hoop dat sy gehoor die liedjie net so sal geniet soos hy dit geniet het om dit te skryf en op te neem. “Ek voel dis die beste liedjie wat ek tot dusver al geskryf het.”Die musiekvideo, wat deur Kyle White verfilm is by die pragtige Ukutula Lodge, beloof om net so treffend soos die lied self te wees. Wilde Elemente: Musiekvideo met ’n verrassende draai Alhoewel Dodo nie te veel wil verklap nie, laat hy wel bietjie spanning opbou deur te noem dat daar tonele saam met leeus is – ’n unieke element wat die visuele vertelling van “Jannaman” nog meer spesiaal maak.“Jannaman” is nou beskikbaar op alle digitale stromingsplatforms. Luister daarna en ervaar die hartklop van ’n seun se liefde en bewondering vir sy pa. Dodo Nyoka - Jannaman

In ons gemeenskap is die oorgang na aftrede nie altyd sinoniem met finansiële sekuriteit nie; in werklikheid is dit dikwels die teenoorgestelde. Met hierdie realiteit in gedagte, het ons besluit om 'n lys saam te stel van moontlike praktiese en haalbare idees vir inkomstegenerering vir afgetrede persone in ons dorp. Ons doel is nie net om waardevolle hulpbronne en voorstelle te bied wat hulle kan benut om 'n stabiele inkomste te verseker nie, maar ook om 'n kultuur van ondersteuning en samewerking binne ons gemeenskap te bevorder. Ons nooi u hartlik uit om by hierdie inisiatief aan te sluit deur verdere idees by te dra en ons afgetrede burgers aktief te ondersteun in hul strewe na finansiële welstand. Laat ons saamwerk om 'n omgewing te skep waar aftrede nie 'n struikelblok vir finansiële stabiliteit is nie, maar 'n geleentheid vir groei en selfontdekking. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Ons Gunstelinge Eerstens hier is ons gunstelinge van die idees wat die spannetjie hier by The Go-To Guy bymekaar gesit het. Besigheids Antwoord en bespreking Diens:  Bied jou dienste aan vir klein eenmansake soos Loodgieters om hulle telefone te beantwoord en hulle dagboek te bestuur vir kliente navrae. Opleiding van Huishulp: Lei bediendes en huishulpe op in die skoonaak van huise, klerewas, stryk, gebruik van toerusting, kooklesse, sien ook ons vorige besigheidsplan wat ons opgetrek het in hierdie artikel. Begin ń Kurator Facebook en TikTok Blad: Wys interresante dinge wat mense kan koop by winkels oor die streek, dink byvoorbeeld aan skilderye, unieke meubel ontwerpe, oudhede, rare boeke ensomeer. Ons het ook paar van ons ander gunstelinge hieronder in geel karakters aangedui... Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Tuindienste: Bied basiese tuindienste soos gras sny, tuin skoonmaak, en plantversorging. Troeteldie Oppas Diens: Pas troeteldiere op terwyl eienaars weg is. Kinders oppas:  Bied betroubare kinderoppas dienste aan. Tuisgemaakte gebak verkoop:  Maak en verkoop gebak soos koekies en pasteie. Handwerk verkoop:  Maak en verkoop handwerk items soos gebreide goedere of juweliersware. Ekstra Klasse: Gee ekstra klasse vir skoolkinders in vakke waarin jy sterk is. Markstalletjie:  Verkoop vars produkte of tuisgemaakte goedere by plaaslike markte. Maaltydbeplanning en voorbereiding:  Berei en verkoop tuisgemaakte etes vir diegene met 'n besige skedule. Klein herstelwerk: Bied dienste aan vir eenvoudige huishoudelike herstelwerk. Plaaslike toergids:  Bied toere aan in jou dorp vir besoekers wat belangstel in die geskiedenis en kultuur. Oudhede en versamelstukke verkoop: Verkoop oudhede of versamelstukke wat jy oor die jare versamel het. Gastehuis of B&B: Verhuur 'n kamer of twee vir korttermynverblyf. Kuns en fotografie verkoop:  Verkoop jou kunswerke of fotografie aan plaaslike galerye of aanlyn. Persoonlike inkopies: Bied aan om inkopies te doen vir diegene wat nie self kan uitgaan nie. Kleinhandel op markdae: Verkoop produkte tydens markdae of gemeenskapsgeleenthede. Klere herstel en aanpassings:  Bied 'n diens aan vir die herstel of aanpassing van klere. Tuisgemaakte konfyt en ingelegde produkte:  Maak en verkoop jou eie konfyte, blatjang, en ingelegde produkte. Vervoerdienste: Bied 'n vervoerdiens vir ouer persone of skoolkinders, indien jy 'n betroubare voertuig het. Vryskut skryfwerk:  Skryf artikels of inhoud vir plaaslike nuusblaaie of gemeenskapsbulletins. Plaaslike kultuurwerkswinkels: Lei werkswinkels of klasse in plaaslike handwerk of kultuuraktiwiteite. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Plaaslike Toerisme-bemarking:  Werk saam met plaaslike besighede om 'n klein toerismebemarkingsonderneming te begin wat fokus op die bevordering van plaaslike aantreklikhede. Bak en Kook Klasse: Bied bak- of kookklasse aan in jou huis vir mense wat graag hul kulinêre vaardighede wil verbeter. Verhuring van Tuingereedskap: Verhuur jou tuingereedskap aan mense wat dit nodig het vir eenmalige projekte. Middagete Klub: Organiseer 'n middagete klub vir ouer volwassenes waar lede bymekaar kom vir gesellige etes. Herwinning en Upcycling Projekte: Begin 'n projek wat fokus op die herwinning en upcycling van items, en verkoop die opgeknapte goedere. Kommunale Groentetuin: Begin 'n kommunale groentetuin en verkoop die produkte aan die gemeenskap of bied lede se aandele aan. Plaaslike Koerant of Nuusbrief:  Begin 'n maandelikse koerant of nuusbrief vir ouer gemeenskap om plaaslike nuus en gebeure te dek. Mobiele Koffiewinkel:  Begin 'n mobiele koffiewinkel wat by plaaslike sportbyeenkomste of gemeenskapsgeleenthede dien. Kuier- en Geselsaande: Organiseer sosiale aande waar mense kan kuier en nuwe vriende maak, moontlik met 'n klein toegangsfooi. Aanlyn Verkoop van Plaaslike Produkte: Help plaaslike kunstenaars of ambagsmanne om hul produkte aanlyn te verkoop, deur 'n gemeenskaplike aanlyn winkel of markplek. Sleutelhouer en Noodkontakdienste: Bied 'n diens aan waar jy optree as 'n betroubare sleutelhouer of noodkontak vir mense wat gereeld reis. Boomversorging en Snoeidienste: Bied basiese boomversorging en snoeidienste vir kleiner tuine aan. Plaaslike Geleenthede Koördineerder:  Organiseer en koördineer plaaslike geleenthede soos kunsmarkte, musiekoptredes, of gemeenskapsfeeste. Waterbesparingskonsultasies: Gee advies en implementeer waterbesparingsstrategieë vir huishoudings en besighede. Plaaslike Geskiedenisboek:  Skryf en publiseer 'n boek oor die plaaslike geskiedenis of interessante verhale uit jou dorp. Kunsterapie Werkswinkels: Bied kunsterapie werkswinkels aan vir stresverligting en persoonlike uitdrukking. Tuiste Veiligheidsoudits: Bied 'n diens aan waar jy huise besoek om veiligheidsoudits uit te voer en aanbevelings te maak vir verbeteringe. Eiendomsfotografie:  Bied 'n diens aan om hoë-kwaliteit foto's van eiendomme vir verkoop of verhuring te neem. Plaaslike Reisblogger: Skep 'n blog of vlog oor interessante plekke om te besoek in en rondom jou dorp, met fokus op minder bekende aantreklikhede. Sosiale Media Bladsybestuur:  Bied aan om sosiale media bladsye vir plaaslike besighede te bestuur, veral vir diegene wat nie tyd het nie. Herstel van Huishoudelike Apparate:  Bied 'n diens aan vir die herstel van basiese huishoudelike apparate, as jy die nodige vaardighede het. Stokperdjie Aanbied: Lei klasse in jou spesifieke stokperdjie of kuns, soos houtwerk, pottebakkery, of skilder. Plaaslike Toerisme Produkte:  Skep en verkoop produkte wat plaaslike toerisme bevorder, soos poskaarte, plaaslike kunsvlyt, of geskiedkundige gidse. Konsultasiedienste: Bied jou kundigheid as 'n konsultant aan in jou vorige beroepsveld, of dit nou in onderwys, finansies, of ingenieurswese is. Persoonlike Organiseerder: Help mense om hul huise te dekultiveer en te organiseer. Gemeenskapstuin Projekleier:  Begin 'n gemeenskapstuin en bied leiding oor hoe om volhoubare tuinboupraktyke te implementeer. Verkoop van Plaaslike Fotografie: Neem en verkoop foto's van plaaslike landskappe en gebeure. Kookboek met Plaaslike Resepte: Versamel en publiseer 'n kookboek met tradisionele of plaaslike resepte. Fiets Herstelwerk: Bied 'n diens vir die herstel en onderhoud van fietse. Voëlkyk Toere:  Lei voëlkyk toere of werkswinkels vir natuurliefhebbers. Plaaslike Geskiedenislesings: Bied praatjies of lesings aan oor die geskiedenis van jou dorp of omgewing. Vervaardiging van Tuisgemaakte Skoonheidsprodukte: Maak en verkoop natuurlike skoonheidsprodukte soos seep, badsoute, of lyfrome. Verkoop van Waterbesparingsprodukte: Vervaardig of verkoop produkte wat waterbesparing in die huis en tuin bevorder. Plaaslike Kunsgalery:  Organiseer en bestuur 'n klein kunsgalery wat werk van plaaslike kunstenaars uitstal en verkoop. Selfverdedigingsklasse: Bied selfverdedigingsklasse aan vir vroue en ouer volwassenes. Natuurwandelings en Omgewingsopvoeding: Lei natuurwandelings en bied opvoedkundige sessies oor die plaaslike flora en fauna. Huisgebaseerde Teetuin: Begin 'n klein teetuin by jou huis, waar besoekers kan ontspan en geniet van tuisgemaakte lekkernye. Ondersteuningsgroepe Fasiliteer: Begin ondersteuningsgroepe vir verskeie gemeenskapsbehoeftes, soos ouerskap, afgetredenes, of gesondheidsuitdagings. Ouer IT-Opleiding: Bied basiese IT-opleiding vir ouer volwassenes aan, fokus op eenvoudige aanlyn take en veiligheid,sluit in gebruik van sosiale media soos WhatsApp Plaaslike Aandenkings Skep: Ontwerp en vervaardig aandenkings wat die kultuur en erfenis van jou omgewing. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Was- en Str ykdienste: Bied 'n was- en strykdiens aan vir besige gesinne en werkende professionele persone. Houtwerk en Meubelrestourasie:  Restoureer en verkoop ou meubels of skep unieke houtwerk items om te verkoop. Persoonlike Sjef: Kook maaltye vir spesiale geleenthede by kliënte se huise, of bied maaltydvoorbereidingsdienste aan vir diegene met besige skedules. Plaaslike Toeriste Inligtingspunt: Stel 'n inligtingspunt of klein sentrum op wat fokus op die bevordering van plaaslike toeriste-aantreklikhede en aktiwiteite. Na-skoolse Aktiwiteitskoördineerder: Organiseer en bied na-skoolse aktiwiteite of klubs vir kinders, soos kuns en handwerk, musiek, of sport. Uithuur van Stoorplek: As jy ekstra ruimte het, oorweeg dit om stoorplek te verhuur aan mense wat ekstra ruimte nodig het. Tuin- en Plaasproduk Stalletjie: Verkoop vars produkte uit jou eie tuin of plaas by 'n stalletjie buite jou huis of op 'n plaaslike mark. Mobiele Haarsalon: Bied haarsny- en stileringdienste aan by kliënte se huise, veral gerieflik vir diegene wat moeilik kan reis. Kuns- en Handwerkmark Organiseerder: Organiseer plaaslike kuns- en handwerkmarkte waar gemeenskapslede hul produkte kan uitstal en verkoop. Eko-toere en Natuurbewaring Projekte:  Lei eko-toere of werk aan projekte wat fokus op die bewaring van plaaslike natuurlewe en omgewings. Senior Fiksheidsinstrukteur: Bied fiksheidsklasse aan spesifiek ontwerp vir ouer volwassenes, insluitend wateraerobics, joga, of ligte gimnastiek. Plaaslike Geskenkwinkel: Begin 'n geskenkwinkel wat spesialiseer in plaaslik vervaardigde produkte en handwerk, ideaal vir toeriste en inwoners. Keramiek en Pottebakkery: Skep en verkoop keramiekware, van dekoratiewe items tot funksionele huisware. Begeleide Kulturele en Historiese Wandeling: Bied begeleide wandelinge aan wat fokus op die kulturele en historiese aspekte van jou dorp. Herwinde Kunsprojekte: Skep kunswerke of handwerk items uit herwinde materiaal en verkoop dit aan die gemeenskap of aanlyn. Lees en Voorlees Program vir Kinders: Begin 'n lees- of voorleesprogram by plaaslike skole of biblioteke om kinders aan te moedig om meer te lees. Plaaslike Koerant/Blog Skrywer: Skryf vir 'n plaaslike koerant of begin 'n blog wat fokus op gemeenskapsnuus, gebeure, en interessante stories. Huiskonserte en Kultuuraande: Organiseer klein huiskonserte, poësieaande, of kultuurvertonings in jou tuiste of gemeenskapsentrum. Verhuring van Kampeeruitrusting: Verhuur kampeeruitrusting soos tente, slaapsakke, en stowe aan plaaslike inwoners of toeriste. Plaaslike Taalgids: Bied taalgidsdienste aan vir toeriste of nuwe inwoners, help hulle om Afrikaans of plaaslike tale te leer of te verbeter. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Plaaslike Vervoerdiens: Bied 'n plaaslike vervoerdiens vir ouer inwoners of diegene sonder vervoer, ideaal vir doktersafsprake of inkopies. Sopkombuis of Maaltyddiens:  Begin 'n sopkombuis of maaltyddiens wat bekostigbare, voedsame maaltye aan die gemeenskap bied. Gebruikte Boekwinkel: Stel 'n klein gebruikte boekwinkel op, moontlik met 'n koffiehoekie vir lees en ontspanning. Plaaslike Toerustingverhuring: Verhuur toerusting vir huisverbetering, tuinwerk, of spesiale geleenthede aan inwoners. Tuinontwerp en Landskapberading: Bied berading en ontwerp dienste vir tuinuitleg en landskapsbeplanning. Kombuishulp en Voorbereiding:  Bied jou dienste aan om in besige huishoudings te help met maaltydvoorbereiding en kombuisorganisasie. Kleinhandel Hulpdienste:  Bied 'n diens aan kleinhandelaars om winkels netjies te hou, voorraad uit te pak, of kliënte te help. Mentorskap Program: Begin 'n mentorskapprogram waar jy jou lewens- en beroepskennis deel met jonger geslagte. Plaaslike Gidse vir Natuurbewaring:  Lei gidse oor natuurbewaring en omgewingsbewustheid in plaaslike natuurreservate of parke. Herstel van Sporttoerusting: Bied 'n diens aan vir die herstel van sporttoerusting soos fietsry, visvang, of kampeertoerusting. Plaaslike Skoonheidsdienste: Bied basiese skoonheidsdienste tuis aan, soos naelversorging, gesigbehandelings, of hare vleg. Klein Elektroniese Herstelwerk:  Herstel klein elektroniese items soos ketels, broodroosters, of haardroërs. Persoonlike Storievertelling en Biografieë:  Skryf en dokumenteer persoonlike stories of biografieë vir individue of families. Gemeenskapsradiostasie: Begin 'n gemeenskapsradiostasie of podcast wat fokus op plaaslike nuus, musiek, en kultuur. Aanbieding van Werkswinkels in Lewensvaardighede:  Bied werkswinkels aan in basiese lewensvaardighede soos begroting, basiese rekenaarvaardighede, of kookklasse. Bemarking en Verkope vir Plaaslike Kunstenaars: Help plaaslike kunstenaars om hul werk te bemark en te verkoop deur uitstallings of aanlyn platforms. Vrywillige Brandweer- of Noodhulpdienste:  Sluit aan by of begin 'n vrywillige brandweer- of noodhulpdiens in die gemeenskap. Plaaslike Erfenistoere en -Verhale: Bied toere en vertellings aan wat fokus op die plaaslike erfenis en geskiedenis. Gemeenskapsforum of Besprekingsgroep: Skep 'n forum of besprekingsgroep wat maandeliks byeenkom om gemeenskapskwessies te bespreek. Mobiele Groentetuin Advies: Bied advies en hulp aan vir mense wat hul eie groentetuine wil begin, insluitend besoeke aan hul tuine om praktiese hulp te verleen.   Ter Afsluiting Ter afsluiting van ons lys van inkomstegenereringsidees vir afgetredenes, erken ons dat hierdie slegs 'n beginpunt is. Elke individu het unieke vaardighede, ervarings en belangstellings wat kan lei tot nog meer innoverende en haalbare inkomstemoontlikhede. Daarom doen ons 'n beroep op u, ons gewaardeerde lesers, om u insigte en voorstelle te deel. Het u idees wat prakties en toeganklik is vir die ouer generasie? Konsepte wat nie net finansiële voordele inhou nie, maar ook sosiale interaksie en persoonlike vervulling bevorder? Stuur asseblief u idees en voorstelle aan ons. Ons is veral geïnteresseerd in inisiatiewe wat maklik geïmplementeer kan word en 'n positiewe impak op die lewenskwaliteit van ons afgetrede gemeenskapslede sal hê. Saam kan ons 'n ondersteunende netwerk bou wat nie net bydra tot finansiële sekuriteit nie, maar ook tot 'n ryker, meer vervulde gemeenskapslewe. Laat ons hande vat en 'n verskil maak in die lewens van diegene wat so baie vir ons gemeenskap gegee het. Ons sien uit daarna om van u te hoor en saam te werk aan 'n toekoms waarin elke afgetrede persoon die geleenthede het om te floreer. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations

DJ-ing is nie net om ‘n paar songs op ‘n playlist te sit en te hoop mense hou daarvan nie. Dis ‘n kuns, ‘n tegniek en soms ‘n redelike komplekse mengsel van tegnologie en talent. As jy ooit gewonder het hoe DJ’s dit regkry om ‘n skare aan die gang te hou en gladde oorgange tussen liedjies te maak, dan is hierdie artikel vir jou! Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Niemand word ‘n DJ gebore nie Moenie dat iemand jou vertel dat DJ’s so gebore is nie! Elke DJ begin êrens, en dit verg oefening, geduld en ‘n paar mislukte mixes om regtig die kuns baas te raak. Een van die dinge wat nuwelinge die meeste afskrik, is die massiewe hoeveelheid opsies as dit kom by toerusting – wat het jy regtig nodig, en watter knoppies en sliders doen wat? Kom ons kyk na die basiese toerusting en tegnieke wat jy nodig het om ‘n goeie DJ te word. Hoeveel kos DJ-toerusting vir beginners? Om as ‘n beginner DJ te begin, het jy ‘n paar basiese stukke toerusting nodig. Die koste kan wissel, afhangende van watter handelsmerke en kenmerke jy verkies. Hier is ‘n rowwe idee van wat jy kan verwag om te spandeer: DJ sagteware:  Baie programme het gratis weergawes, maar professionele sagteware kan R500 tot R2000 kos. Mixer:  ‘n Goeie beginner mixer kan tussen R1500 en R5000 kos. DJ-koptelefoon:  Jy wil ‘n paar van ordentlike gehalte hê – R800 tot R3000. Kabels:  Dit klink klein, maar goeie kabels is belangrik – ongeveer R300 tot R1000. Speakers:  Jy kan met gewone speakers begin, maar ‘n paar monitor speakers kos R3000 of meer. Altesaam kan jy verwag om tussen R10 000 en R25 000 te spandeer as jy heeltemal van nuuts af begin. Dis nie goedkoop nie, maar soos met enige passie, betaal jy vir kwaliteit en duursaamheid. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Wat is die basiese toerusting vir DJ-ing? As jy begin DJ, is daar ‘n paar belangrike items wat jy nodig het: 1. DJ Mixer Elke DJ gebruik ‘n mixer om musiek te beheer. Dit laat jou toe om musiek te meng, volumes aan te pas en gladde oorgange te maak tussen twee of meer liedjies. ‘n Mixer het ten minste twee kanale, sodat jy een song kan speel terwyl jy ‘n ander gereed kry. Die TRAKTOR Kontrol Z1 is ‘n goeie voorbeeld van ‘n beginner mixer wat maklik om te gebruik is. 2. DJ Controller Controllers het die afgelope paar jaar ‘n groot deurbraak gemaak. Dit is ‘n alles-in-een oplossing wat bestaan uit ‘n mixer, jog wheels (vir spoedbeheer), effekte, hot cue knoppies en meer. Dit maak DJ-ing baie eenvoudiger vir beginners en werk saam met sagteware soos Serato DJ, Traktor Pro, of Rekordbox.Die TRAKTOR Kontrol S2 is ‘n goeie voorbeeld van ‘n beginner-vriendelike controller met ‘n stewige stel funksies. 3. DJ Koptelefoon Kwaliteit koptelefoon is noodsaaklik sodat jy kan hoor wat aangaan en jou mix kan beplan voordat die skare dit hoor. ‘n Paar gewilde keuses sluit in Pioneer HDJ-X5 en Sennheiser HD25. 4. DJ Sagteware Dit is die brein van jou DJ-opstelling. Dit laat jou toe om jou liedjies te bestuur, effekte toe te pas, en ‘n professionele mix te skep sonder duur analoog toerusting. Serato DJ Lite is ‘n gratis opsie vir beginners, terwyl Traktor Pro en Rekordbox DJ gewild is onder ervare DJ’s. 5. Speakers Selfs die beste DJ beteken niks as niemand die musiek kan hoor nie! Aktiewe speakers soos die KRK Rokit 5 of Pioneer DJ DM-40 is gewild vir beginners. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Wat Doen ‘n DJ? DJ’s doen baie meer as net “speel” en “pause” druk op musiek. Hier is ‘n paar basiese tegnieke wat hulle gebruik: 1. Mixing – Die Kunste van Liedjie-Oorgange Mixing is die tegniek om twee of meer liedjies naatloos in mekaar oor te laat vloei. Dit word gedoen deur: Beat-matching: Maak seker die ritme van twee liedjies is dieselfde voor jy hulle meng. EQ-ing: Pas die bass, mid, en treble aan sodat die klanke van die twee liedjies harmonieus in mekaar smelt. Volume beheer: Stel die volume van die nuwe liedjie stadig op terwyl die ouer een vervaag. 2. Beat-Matching Hierdie tegniek help DJ’s om liedjies op dieselfde tempo te kry sodat dit glad saamsmelt. Dit word gewoonlik gedoen met jog wheels op ‘n controller of turntable. 3. Scratching Scratching is een van die mees ikoniese DJ-tegnieke. Dit behels dat ‘n DJ ‘n plaat (of digitale track) vorentoe en agtertoe beweeg terwyl ‘n effek skep met ‘n mixer se crossfader. 4. Reading the Crowd ‘n Goeie DJ weet watter liedjies om te speel deur die skare se energie te lees. Dit is belangrik om nie net jou eie smaak in ag te neem nie, maar om te sien waarop mense reageer. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Hoe om jou eerste DJ-set te speel As jy klaar jou toerusting het en die basiese tegnieke verstaan, is dit tyd om ‘n set te speel! Hier is ‘n paar wenke: Kies jou musiek wys:  Meng bekende treffers met ‘n paar vars, onbekende liedjies. Hou jou energie konstant:  Moenie skielik van ‘n hoë-energie song na ‘n stadige ballade spring nie. Gebruik effekte spaarsaam:  Filters en delays is cool, maar as jy dit te veel gebruik, kan dit steurend raak. Onthou jou crowd:  Kyk hoe mense reageer en pas jou songkeuses daarvolgens aan. Geniet dit! :  As jy lekkerkry, gaan die mense ook lekkerkry. Slot DJ-ing is ‘n wonderlike manier om musiek te beleef en ander mense se ervarings te vorm. Dit verg tyd en oefening, maar as jy passievol is oor musiek en bereid is om te leer, is daar niks wat jou keer om ‘n goeie DJ te word nie.So, gryp jou koptelefoon, kry jou eerste controller en begin eksperimenteer! Voor jy weet, is jy die een wat mense se gunsteling aande aanmekaar sit met jou unieke klanke en styl.

Agter elke trefferliedjie, elke kopknikkende beat, en elke emosioneel gelaaide melodie, is daar 'n musiekprodusent wat agter die skerms werk om seker te maak alles kom perfek bymekaar. Dink aan hulle as die meesters wat kreatiwiteit met tegniese kundigheid meng om 'n kunstenaar se visie tot lewe te bring. Maar wat doen hulle regtig? Kom ons breek dit af. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Wat is 'n Musiekprodusent? 'n Musiekprodusent is die persoon wat seker maak 'n liedjie klink net so goed in jou ore as wat dit in die kunstenaar se kop geklink het. Hulle is die gom wat alles aanmekaar sit. Of dit nou is om die regte instrumente te kies, die liedjie te rangskik, die klankmengsel te verfyn, of 'n kunstenaar deur die opnameproses te lei, 'n produsent is daar van begin tot einde. Sommige produsente is baie hands-on en speel instrumente of skryf selfs liedjies. Ander tree meer op soos 'n rolprentregisseur, wat kunstenaars en klankingenieurs lei om die beste moontlike uitvoering te lewer. Hoe dit ook al sy, hulle is sleutelspelers om te verseker dat die finale produk professioneel en gepoleer is. Wat Doen 'n Musiekprodusent? 1. Tegniese Meestering Meeste produsente is vaardig met musiekprogrammatuur, veral Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) soos Pro Tools, Logic Pro en FL Studio. Hierdie gereedskap help hulle om liedjies op te neem, te redigeer, te meng en te master tot perfeksie. Dink aan 'n sjef in 'n kombuis wat presies weet hoeveel speserye om by te voeg—dis wat produsente met klank doen. Hulle moet ook verstaan hoe mikrofone, sintetiseerders, samplers, en effekte soos EQ's en compressors werk om die beste klank uit elke instrument en stem te kry. 2. Kreatiewe Rigting 'n Produsent is nie net 'n tegnikus nie—hulle help ook om die algehele gevoel en stemming van 'n liedjie te vorm. Hulle kan vir 'n kunstenaar sê, "Hierdie track kort 'n bietjie meer energie" of "Kom ons probeer 'n ander akkoordreeks." Hul werk is om seker te maak die liedjie pas by die kunstenaar se visie, terwyl dit steeds aanklank vind by die luisteraars. Hulle eksperimenteer met verskillende klanke, ruil instrumente om, of verander selfs 'n liedjie se tempo om die perfekte atmosfeer te kry. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations 3. Klankkeuse Sodra die kreatiewe rigting vasgestel is, help die produsent om die beste klanke vir die lied te kies. Moet dit 'n ou-skool vinyl warmte hê, of moet dit klink soos 'n futuristiese dans-treffer? Miskien benodig dit 'n diep bas om mense in die klub te laat beweeg, of 'n akoestiese gevoel om hartsnare te roer. Produsente maak hierdie keuses, dikwels deur verskillende klanke en effekte te toets totdat hulle die perfekte kombinasie vind. 4. Liedjie-Rangskikking Het jy al agtergekom hoe sommige liedjies perfek vloei van vers na koor na brug? Dit gebeur nie per ongeluk nie. Produsente verstaan liedjiestruktuur en gebruik hul musiekteorie-kennis om veranderinge voor te stel wat die liedjie meer boeiend maak. Hulle weet presies waar om 'n "drop" in te sit, waar die beat moet afgaan, en wanneer om 'n toonaardwisseling te gooi vir daai "wow" oomblik. 5. Mentorskap en Kunstenaarontwikkeling Baie produsente tree ook op as mentors, help kunstenaars om hul unieke klank te vind en lei hulle deur die musiekbedryf. Hulle gee terugvoer, bou selfvertroue, en gee soms selfs 'n bietjie streng liefde wanneer nodig. 'n Produsent kan sê, "Ek weet jy kan dit beter doen, probeer weer," om 'n kunstenaar te motiveer om hul beste prestasie te lewer. 6. Netwerk en Spanbou Musiekprodusente het diep bande in die industrie. Hulle ken sessiemusikante, ingenieurs, en liedjieskrywers wat kan help om 'n projek tot lewe te bring. Of dit nou is om 'n briljante saksofoonspeler in te roep of die regte mengingenieur te kry, 'n produsent het 'n lys talentvolle mense wat 'n snit kan verbeter. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations 7. Projekbestuur Om 'n album of selfs net een liedjie te maak, verg tyd, geld, en koördinasie. Produsente hanteer ateljeebesprekings, begrotings, en sperdatums om seker te maak die projek bly op koers. Hulle balanseer ook verskillende persoonlikhede in die ateljee—soms optree as 'n terapeut wanneer spanning hoog loop. (Want kom ons wees eerlik, kunstenaars en kreatiewe mense kan baie wees.) 8. Na-Produksie Sodra alles opgeneem is, hou die produsent toesig oor die redigering, meng, en "mastering" proses. Dit is waar hulle elke detail verfyn, seker maak dat vokale perfek in die mengsel sit, die bas net reg is, en die algehele snit skerp klink op enige luidspreker—van hoë-end ateljeemonitors tot 'n goedkoop Bluetooth-spreker. 9. Bemarking en Promosie In vandag se musiekbedryf stop 'n produsent se werk nie by die maak van die musiek nie. Hulle help dikwels om 'n strategie te bou vir hoe en wanneer om musiek uit te bring. Hulle gee raad oor watter liedjies as enkelsnitte gebruik moet word, hoe om 'n album te bemark, en dra selfs by tot musiekvideo’s en promosie-inhoud. Verskillende Soorte Produsente Nie alle produsente werk op dieselfde manier nie. Hier is 'n paar verskillende tipes: Die Hands-On Musikant:  Hierdie produsent speel instrumente, skryf musiek, en is betrokke in elke deel van die proses. Die Klankingenieur Produsent:  Iemand wat as 'n opname-ingenieur begin het en fokus op die perfekte klankmengsel. Die Beatmaker:  Hierdie produsente fokus op die maak van "beats" en instrumentale, dikwels in genres soos hip-hop, pop, en elektroniese musiek. Die Uitvoerende Produsent:  Meer van 'n projekbestuurder wat die regte mense bymekaarbring om 'n treffer te skep. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Waarom Produsente Belangrik is Sonder produsente sou musiek 'n deurmekaarspul wees. Hulle bring orde, kreatiwiteit, en professionaliteit na die opnameproses, en help kunstenaars om iets spesiaals te skep. Wil Jy 'n Musiekprodusent Word? Die goeie nuus is dat jy nie 'n groot begroting of 'n deftige ateljee nodig het om te begin nie. Met net 'n skootrekenaar, ordentlike oorfone, en 'n DAW, kan jy begin eksperimenteer met musiekproduksie. Luister na goeie produsente, bestudeer hul tegnieke, en oefen aanhoudend. Musiekproduksie is 'n kuns én 'n wetenskap—hoe meer jy oefen, hoe beter word jy.

Elke keer as jy na 'n trefferliedjie luister, hoor jy nie net die kunstenaar se talent nie, maar ook die kundigheid van 'n opnamestudio. Dit is waar rou talent omskep word in 'n profesionele klank wat mense se ore streel. Maar hoe werk 'n opnamestudio regtig? Wat is al die kabels, knoppies en sagteware waarmee mense werk? Kom ons duik in. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Wat is 'n Opnamestudio? In sy eenvoudigste vorm is 'n opnamestudio 'n plek waar musiek, stemme en ander klanke professioneel opgeneem en gemeng word. Studio's kan wissel van 'n klein projekstudio in iemand se kamer tot 'n massiewe fasiliteit met genoeg spasie vir 'n hele orkes. Dit is nie net 'n kamer met 'n mikrofoon nie – daar is ‘n verskeidenheid toerusting, sagteware en akoestiese beplanning betrokke. Die Basiese Indeling van 'n Studio 'n Opnamestudio bestaan tipies uit verskeie kamers, elk met 'n spesifieke doel: Die "live room" –  Dit is waar die kunstenaars sing of speel. Hierdie kamer is toegerus met mikrofone, standaarde en 'n hele klomp kabels wat almal na die beheer kamer gaan. Die beheer kamer –  Hier sit die klankingenieur en vervaardiger agter 'n mengpaneel, luister na die opnames en maak aanpassings. Dit is soos 'n kok se kombuis – dis waar al die bestanddele bymekaarkom om die finale gereg perfek te maak. Isolasiebooths –  Dit is kleiner kamers wat ontwerp is om sekere geluide af te skerm. 'n Tromstel of 'n elektriese kitaarversterker kan in so ‘n booth geplaas word sodat dit nie inmeng met ander instrumente in die "live room" nie. Die Belangrikheid van Akoestiek 'n Goeie studio is nie net 'n spasie met ‘n paar dik gordyne nie. Akoestiek is van kardinale belang. ‘n Klankingenieur of akoestiese spesialis ontwerp die spasie om te keer dat onnodige eggo’s of geluide die opnames beïnvloed. Muurpanele absorbeer ongewenste refleksies en spesiale materiale word gebruik om seker te maak dat elke instrument en stem suiwer klink. Dink daaraan soos ‘n spieël – jy wil hê jou stem moet reflekteer soos jy dit bedoel het, sonder verdraaiing. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Toerusting in 'n Studio Geen studio is volledig sonder die regte toerusting nie. Hier is 'n paar belangrike items: Mikrofone:  Verskillende instrumente en stemme het verskillende mikrofone nodig. ‘n Kondensator-mikrofoon werk goed vir vokale, terwyl ‘n dinamiese mikrofoon dalk beter vir ‘n dromstel is. Mengpaneel:  Dit is die "cockpit" van die studio. Klankingenieurs gebruik dit om die volume, balans en effekte van verskillende spore aan te pas. Digitale oudiowerkstasies (DAWs):  Moderne opnames word meestal digitaal verwerk met sagteware soos Pro Tools, Logic Pro of FL Studio. Dit is waar die regte magic gebeur – sny, plak, remix en skep. Monitor luidsprekers en koptelefone:  Dit is noodsaaklik om die klank suiwer en duidelik te hoor tydens meng en redigering. Effek-eenhede:  Dinge soos kompressors, ekwaliseerders en reverb-eenhede help om klank professioneel te poliseer. Die Opnameproses 1. Voorbereiding Voordat iemand begin sing of speel, moet alles reggestel word. Die regte mikrofone word opgestel, die kunstenaars kry ‘n "headphone mix" en die klankingenieur toets die vlakke. 2. Opname Kunstenaars speel hul dele en die klankingenieur neem dit op in verskeie lae, of "tracks". Sommige kunstenaars verkies om regstreeks te speel, terwyl ander eers ‘n "guide track" skep en dan elk instrument afsonderlik opneem. 3. Meng en Redigering Nadat die opname voltooi is, begin die regte werk. Die klankingenieur balanseer volumes, verwyder ongewenste geluide en voeg effekte by om die musiek ‘n professionele klank te gee. 4. Mastering Hierdie laaste stap verseker dat die liedjie gereed is vir vrystelling. Die volume word aangepas, frekwensies word gebalanseer en die liedjie word geoptimaliseer vir verskillende platforms soos streaming, radio en CD. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Hoeveel kos 'n Studio-Opname? Dit hang af van verskeie faktore. ‘n Klein tuisstudio kan relatief bekostigbaar wees, terwyl ‘n professionele studio met topklas toerusting duisende rande per uur kan kos. As jy ‘n hele album wil opneem, kan dit maklik oor die R50 000 kos, afhangend van die kompleksiteit van die projek. Die Verskil tussen 'n Tuisstudio en 'n Profesionele Studio Baie kunstenaars begin met ‘n tuisstudio. Dit is goedkoper en maklik om toegang tot te kry. Maar ‘n professionele studio bied iets wat ‘n tuisstudio nie altyd kan nie: akkurate akoestiek, hoëgehalte toerusting en ervare ingenieurs wat weet hoe om ‘n liedjie reg te laat klink. Dit is soos om ‘n kitskosburger te vergelyk met ‘n gourmet maaltyd – albei kan lekker wees, maar die kwaliteit is nie dieselfde nie. Waarom 'n Opnamestudio Belangrik is Sonder studios sou musiek maar rou en onafgewerk klink. Dit is hier waar kunstenaars se kreatiwiteit verfyn word en waar liedjies omskep word in meesterstukke. Dit is nie net ‘n plek met ‘n paar mikrofone nie – dit is ‘n laboratorium vir musiek, ‘n fabriek vir treffers, en ‘n tweede tuiste vir musikante. Slot Of jy nou ‘n groot orkes is of ‘n solo-kunstenaar met ‘n kitaar, ‘n opnamestudio kan jou help om jou musiek op die volgende vlak te kry. So as jy ooit in ‘n studio beland en wonder hoekom alles so tegnies lyk – onthou, dit is al daardie klein detail wat ‘n gewone klankbaan in ‘n meesterstuk verander.

Baie mense droom daarvan om in die musiekbedryf te werk. Of jy nou daarvan hou om te sing, instrumente te speel of agter die skerms aan musiekproduksie te werk, daar is baie moontlikhede. Dit is 'n uitdagende, maar opwindende wêreld met groot geleenthede vir kreatiewe mense. Hier is 'n paar stappe en wenke om jou kans te vergroot om dit in die musiekbedryf te maak. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Wees duidelik oor jou doel Die musiekbedryf is baie breed. Wil jy 'n musikant, 'n vervaardiger, 'n liedjieskrywer of 'n klankingenieur wees? Dalk is jy meer geïnteresseerd in bestuur, bemarking of die besigheidskant van musiek. Wees eerlik met jouself oor wat jy wil doen en waar jou sterk punte lê. Sodra jy weet watter rigting jy wil inslaan, stel klein doelwitte. Wil jy jou eerste optrede binne drie maande hê? Wil jy 'n EP opneem? Begin met haalbare stappe en werk daarvandaan. Bou jou netwerk Kontak is alles in die musiekbedryf. Gaan na musiekfeeste, konserte en netwerkevenemente. Praat met mense, maak vriende en leer by ander wat alreeds sukses behaal het. Volg musikante en vervaardigers aanlyn en stuur vriendelike boodskappe. Dit is nie net oor wie jy ken nie, maar oor wie jou ken! As jy belangstel in musiekproduksie, probeer om tyd in 'n opname-ateljee deur te bring. Selfs al is dit net as 'n toeskouer, kan jy baie leer en die regte mense ontmoet. Aanvaar dat dit tyd neem Niemand raak oornag beroemd nie – behalwe miskien op TikTok, maar selfs dit verg baie agter-die-skerms werk. Dit vat jare van oefen, skryf, optree en foute maak voor mense jou musiek begin raaksien. Hou aan met werk, selfs al voel dit soms of niks gebeur nie. Baie bekende musikante moes jare lank ander werk doen om hulself te onderhou. Dit is nie 'n teken dat jy misluk nie – dit is net deel van die reis. Bou jou aanlyn-teenwoordigheid As jy nie aanlyn is nie, bestaan jy nie vir baie mense nie. Maak seker jy het 'n webblad, sosiale media-profiele en 'n YouTube- of TikTok-kanaal. Deel gereeld jou musiek, video's en optredes. Jou aanlyn-teenwoordigheid is jou digitale visitekaartjie. Maak dit professioneel, maar wys ook jou persoonlikheid. Mense hou daarvan om 'n musikant se storie te leer ken, so wees eerlik en deel jou reis. Kry soveel optredes as moontlik Speel soveel as moontlik voor mense – al is dit by koffiewinkels, skole, markte of troues. Hoe meer jy optree, hoe beter raak jy en hoe groter is die kans dat iemand jou raak sien. Soms sal jy vir min of geen geld speel, maar moenie altyd verniet werk nie. Dit is belangrik om waarde aan jou talent te heg. Balans is die sleutel – kry ervaring, maar leer ook om jouself te bemark en 'n regverdige fooi te vra. Kry 'n mentor As jy iemand ken wat al ervaring het in die musiekbedryf, vra of hulle bereid is om jou te mentor. 'n Mentor kan jou help om foute te vermy en jou wys hoe die industrie regtig werk. As jy nie 'n mentor persoonlik ken nie, kan jy steeds leer deur podcasts, boeke en aanlynklasse van ervare musikante en vervaardigers te volg. Doen 'n internskap As jy studeer of 'n voet in die deur probeer kry, oorweeg dit om 'n internskap te doen. Baie plate-etikette, studios en musiekmaatskappye het internskappe waar jy ervaring kan opdoen. Soms is dit nie goed geadverteer nie, so bel en vra self uit.Al is dit nie 'n betaalde internskap nie, kan die kontakte en ervaring die moeite werd wees. Bly passievol en geduldig Die suksesvolste musikante is diegene wat regtig lief is vir musiek. Dit is nie altyd maklik nie, en daar sal dae wees wat jy moedeloos voel. Fokus op jou passie en hou aan skep en leer. Finansiële bestuur Musiek is ‘n passie, maar ook ‘n besigheid. Leer hoe om jou geld reg te bestuur. Dit is aanloklik om al jou geld op nuwe instrumente of opname-toerusting te spandeer, maar doen dit net as jy dit werklik kan bekostig. Huur eerder toerusting totdat jy die inkomste het om jou eie te koop. As jy begin om geld uit optredes te verdien, sit 'n gedeelte weg vir bemarking en toekomstige projekte. Jy weet nooit wanneer ‘n goeie geleentheid kan opduik nie, en dit help om voorbereid te wees. Wees konsekwent Groot musikante hou aan om nuwe musiek te skep en dit met hul aanhangers te deel. Selfs al is jy besig, maak tyd om nuwe idees te skryf, op te neem en aanlyn te deel. As mense sien jy is aktief en toegewyd, is hulle meer geneig om jou musiek te ondersteun. Samewerking maak die industrie sterker Jy hoef nie alleen te werk nie. Werk saam met ander musikante, vervaardigers en klankingenieurs. Dit help jou om nuwe vaardighede te leer en om ‘n groter gehoor te bereik. In die musiekbedryf werk almal op een of ander manier saam – van kunstenaars en bestuurders tot promotors en agente. Deur vennootskappe te bou, vergroot jy jou kanse op sukses. Die musiekbedryf is ‘n lang speletjie Elke musiekkunstenaar se reis is uniek, en daar is nie ‘n enkele resep vir sukses nie. Hou aan werk, leer en pas jou strategie aan soos jy vorder. Die belangrikste is om jou musiek en jou gehoor te respekteer, en aan te hou met jou passie. So, as jy wil deel wees van die musiekwêreld, begin nou. Skryf daardie liedjie, oefen daardie instrument, gaan na daardie optrede en praat met mense. Jou groot kans is dalk net om die hoek. Sterkte!

Music is more than just sound; it’s a universal language that connects people, cultures, and emotions. It has the power to bring people together, to heal, to uplift, and to inspire. Whether it's through a simple melody or a powerful symphony, music has the ability to move us in ways that words often cannot. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations The Power of Music I truly believe in the power of music. It’s one of the most powerful forces on earth. When I sing in a choir, it's not just about hitting the right notes—it's about breathing as one, thinking as one, and singing as one. Music brings people from different backgrounds together, uniting them in a way that few other things can. One song can change the world. Music has shaped history, driven social movements, and given voice to emotions that otherwise would have remained silent. It is not just entertainment; it is a force that influences emotions, memories, and even our mental well-being. More Than Just Sound Music is more than just something pleasant to the ears. It’s an art form, a passion, and an expression of the soul. Every note and every word in a song is carefully crafted by composers who pour their emotions and experiences into their work. Music allows us to see into someone’s soul—whether it’s the composer who writes the melodies or the singer who brings those melodies to life. When I sing, I feel like I become something more than myself. Music transports me to a world where nothing else matters, where emotions are pure, and where I can lose myself completely. That’s the beauty of music—it allows us to escape, to dream, and to experience emotions in their rawest form. Music and Emotion Music has the ability to evoke the deepest and most intense emotions. I remember a time when I had the opportunity to sing Verdi’s Requiem  in an opera house. The moment I stepped onto that grand stage, I felt something magical was about to happen. As the conductor lifted his baton and the orchestra began to play, the energy in the hall was electric. The melodies filled the space, and as I sang, I felt a connection not only to the music but to everyone in that room. When the final note echoed through the hall, there was a moment of silence—a collective breath held by everyone, as if the music still lingered in the air. That moment stayed with me, a reminder of how powerful music can be. It has the ability to create something truly extraordinary—an experience that transcends time and space. Music and Human Connection Music has a unique way of bringing people together. It crosses language barriers, cultural differences, and generations. From a child singing their favorite song to an elderly person reminiscing about the past through an old tune, music is a bridge between the past and present, between individuals and communities. Research has shown that music can improve cognitive function, boost happiness, and even reduce stress. It teaches children about teamwork, cooperation, and creativity. When kids come together to sing or play instruments, they learn valuable lessons about working towards a common goal. For older generations, music can be a powerful link to memory. A simple song can take them back in time, reminding them of moments and people they had forgotten. That’s why sharing music with seniors—through sing-alongs, concerts, or even just playing familiar tunes—can bring them joy and comfort. Bringing Music Into Our Lives There are so many ways to bring music into our daily lives, and each one has its own magic. 1. Family Karaoke Night Singing together is one of the simplest and most joyful ways to bond. Whether it's belting out classics or laughing through an off-key performance, music has a way of creating lasting memories. Plus, studies show that singing releases dopamine—the “feel-good” chemical in the brain—so it’s a natural mood booster! 2. Listening and Dancing Together There’s nothing like sharing a special song with loved ones. Playing music at home creates an atmosphere of warmth and connection. Whether it’s an upbeat song that gets everyone dancing or a slow melody that brings a sense of peace, music sets the mood in our lives. 3. Donating Instruments to Schools Not every child has access to musical instruments, yet so many dream of playing one. By collecting and donating unused instruments, we can help bring music into the lives of young learners. Schools and community programs often struggle to afford quality instruments, and even a single donation can make a huge difference. 4. Sharing Music with Seniors For many elderly people in nursing homes, live music is a rare treat. Organizing sing-alongs or small performances can brighten their day and take them on a trip down memory lane. Even just playing old favorites for them can bring immense joy. 5. Using Music for Advocacy Music has long been a tool for change. From protest songs during the civil rights movement to modern anthems for equality, music has the power to inspire action. Creating playlists of songs that promote awareness about social issues is a simple way to keep these important messages alive. Music as a Lifeline For me, music is not just entertainment—it’s a necessity. It is the breath in my life, the light in dark moments, and the energy that keeps me going. It has been my constant companion, always there to lift me up when I need it most. Without music, the world would be a quieter, lonelier place. It connects us in ways we don’t even realize. It is present in our happiest moments and our saddest ones. It gives us a voice when words fail, and it brings us together when the world feels divided. So, next time you put on your favorite song, take a moment to appreciate its magic. Whether it makes you dance, cry, smile, or remember, know that you are experiencing something truly special—because music makes the world go round.

Music is more than just a catchy tune on the radio or a song that makes you dance in your car on the way to work. It’s a powerful tool that can help people with emotional, physical, and cognitive challenges. This is where music therapy comes in—an interesting field that uses sounds, rhythms, and melodies to promote healing and personal growth. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations What is Music Therapy? Music therapy, also known as sound therapy, is used in clinical settings to help people with physical, emotional, or mental challenges. It’s not just about ‘sitting and listening to music.’ It’s a structured process led by a trained music therapist and tailored specifically to the patient’s needs. Music therapy can take place in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or private practices. It’s a proven method to reduce stress, regulate emotions, manage pain, and even improve neurological functions. How Does Music Therapy Work? Music therapy works by using specific music-based activities to encourage positive physiological and emotional responses. The therapist applies different techniques depending on the patient’s condition and goals. These can include: 1. Active Listening The therapist plays a song or piece of music for the patient and encourages them to talk about their feelings or the meaning of the song. This helps with emotional expression and self-awareness. 2. Music Performance The therapist may play an instrument or sing a song and encourage the patient to sing along, clap, or play a simple instrument. This helps with coordination, social interaction, and confidence. 3. Songwriting The therapist works with the patient to write music or lyrics about a meaningful experience in their life. This is an excellent way to process emotions and tap into creativity. 4. Movement and Dance By using music to encourage movement, physical function and coordination can improve. This is particularly useful for people with conditions like Parkinson’s disease or movement disorders. 5. Relaxation and Meditation The therapist plays a soft melody or a calming sound pattern while guiding the patient to regulate their breathing and reduce stress. This can lower blood pressure and ease anxiety. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations The Health Benefits of Music Therapy Music is part of human nature. It makes us move, think, feel, and experience in ways that few other things can. Scientific studies have confirmed the significant benefits of music therapy in various health areas. Medical Benefits Reduces stress and anxiety Helps with pain management (especially for chronic pain sufferers) Improves mood and emotional stability Supports social interaction and family bonding Rehabilitation Benefits Enhances motor skills and movement Stimulates language development and communication Improves cognitive functions like memory and concentration Psychiatric Benefits Assists with self-expression and personal insight Supports emotional processing Encourages social engagement and relationship-building Reduces stress and anxiety Music Therapy for Newborns Reduces stress for premature babies Promotes sensory development Strengthens bonding between parents and infants Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Who Are Music Therapists? Music therapists are not just people who love music. They are trained healthcare professionals with specialized degrees in music therapy. They work alongside doctors, psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists to improve patient care. Music therapists can work in various settings, including: Hospitals Schools Psychiatric institutions Rehabilitation centers Private practices How to Become a Music Therapist For those interested in pursuing music therapy as a career, there is a specific educational path. In the U.S., for example, one must earn a degree in music therapy and complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical training. After that, they must pass a certification exam to register as a professional music therapist. Students in this field study: Music history and theory Composition and improvisation Human development and psychopathology Music therapy methods and techniques Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Music Therapy in Action Music therapy can be adapted for different ages and conditions. Here are some examples of how it is applied: Social Skills Development Children in a music therapy group use instruments like drums and tambourines while learning to take turns, collaborate, and socially interact with each other. Emotional Processing A teenager struggling with depression works with a therapist to choose a song that expresses their feelings. They discuss the lyrics and how they relate to the teen’s personal experiences. Cognitive Stimulation An elderly patient with Alzheimer’s is exposed to music from their younger years. This helps with memory recall and provides emotional comfort. Communication and Speech Development A child with a speech delay uses singing and rhythmic patterns to improve pronunciation and word recognition. Physical Rehabilitation A stroke survivor uses a drum to strengthen arm muscles by playing rhythmic patterns. Music Makes a Difference Whether used for emotional healing, physical rehabilitation, or psychological support, music therapy is a proven method for helping people. It is a practical and effective way to support and inspire individuals of all ages and backgrounds. So, the next time you listen to music, think about how powerful it truly is. It’s not just sound—it’s an instrument for healing, growth, and transformation.

Potchefstroom, daardie rustige universiteitsdorp in die Noordwes-provinsie, is dalk nie die eerste plek waaraan jy dink as dit by musiektalent kom nie. Maar moenie dat die kalm atmosfeer jou mislei nie; hierdie dorp het 'n skatkis van musikale juwele opgelewer. Kom ons duik in die stories van 'n paar van Potch se bekendste musikante en hul treffers. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Straatligkinders: Die Rockers van Potch In 2006 het 'n groep vriende in Potchefstroom besluit om 'n band te begin. Hulle het hulself Straatligkinders genoem en het vinnig 'n groot aanhang gekry met hul unieke mengsel van rock, punk en emo. Hul eerste musiekvideo, "Die Beskermer", is in 'n fabriek in Potchefstroom verfilm en het in Januarie 2007 op MK89 verskyn. Dit was die begin van 'n suksesvolle loopbaan wat oor meer as 'n dekade strek. Een van hul gewildste liedjies, "Gedagte vir die dag", het vyf weke lank die nommer een posisie op die MK Top 10 gehou. Met albums soos "Bloeisels" en "Sweef soos 'n vuishou" het hulle hul plek in die Afrikaanse musiektoneel gevestig. In 2018 het hulle die album "Verdwyn" vrygestel, wat hul eerste nuwe materiaal in ses jaar was. Die inspirasie agter die album was tyd en hoe dit mense en hul perspektiewe verander. Straatligkinders het daarin geslaag om hul harde rockklank te kombineer met meer populêre pop-elemente, sonder om hul oorspronklike stem te verloor. Die Potch Trio: Klassieke Klanke in die Hart van Potchefstroom Vir diegene met 'n voorliefde vir klassieke musiek, is Die Potch Trio 'n naam wat resoneer. Bestaande uit Piet Koornhof op viool, Human Coetzee op tjello en Bernarda Vorster op klavier, het hierdie trio hul tuiste by die Noordwes-Universiteit se Potchefstroomkampus gevind. Hul vertolkings van klassieke werke het gehore oor die hele land bekoor en het 'n belangrike bydrae gelewer tot die bevordering van klassieke musiek in Suid-Afrika. Met 'n repertoire wat wissel van Barok tot moderne komposisies, bring Die Potch Trio 'n vars en dinamiese benadering tot klassieke musiekuitvoerings. Die Konservatorium: Waar Musiektalent Gekoester word Geen bespreking oor Potchefstroom se musiektalent is volledig sonder om die Konservatorium te noem nie. Die Konservatorium, geleë op die terrein van die voormalige "Oude Molen", is in 1960 ingewy en het sedertdien 'n spilpunt geword vir musiekonderrig en -uitvoering. Met fasiliteite soos die Konservatoriumsaal, wat 372 sitplekke het, en die Orrel-ouditorium met sy Barok-orrel en 100 sitplekke, bied hierdie instelling 'n tuiste vir beide opkomende en gevestigde musikante. Die Konservatorium huisves tans die Skool vir Musiek, wat in 2003 gestig is, en bied 'n verskeidenheid programme aan vir diegene wat 'n loopbaan in musiek wil volg. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Musikhane: Musiek vir die Gemeenskap Musiek het die krag om lewens te verander, en dit is die kern van die Musikhane Gemeenskapsmusiekbetrokkenheidsprogram. Gestig deur professor Bertha Spies, het Musikhane ten doel om betekenisvolle musiekondervindinge aan leerders en studente-onderwysers te bied. Deur vennootskappe met organisasies soos Mosaic en plaaslike skole, skep Musikhane geleenthede vir musiekonderrig en -uitvoering, wat nie net musikale vaardighede nie, maar ook sosiale kohesie bevorder. Studente-onderwysers kry waardevolle praktiese ondervinding, terwyl gemeenskapslede toegang kry tot musiekonderrig wat andersins dalk buite bereik sou wees. Aardklop: 'n Fees van Kuns en Kultuur Potchefstroom is ook die tuiste van die jaarlikse Aardklop Nasionale Kunstefees. Hierdie fees bring kunstenaars en gehore bymekaar vir 'n viering van diverse artistieke uitdrukkings, insluitend musiek, teater en visuele kunste. Met 'n verskeidenheid optredes en uitstallings, bied Aardklop 'n platform vir beide opkomende en gevestigde kunstenaars om hul werk ten toon te stel en met die gemeenskap te skakel. Die fees dra by tot die kulturele rykdom van Potchefstroom en bied 'n geleentheid vir inwoners en besoekers om die kunste in al hul vorme te vier. Musiekwinkels: Waar Drome Begin Vir diegene wat hul eie musikale reis wil begin, bied Potchefstroom ook uitstekende musiekwinkels soos Music Etc. SA. Gevestig in Chief Albert Luthuli-rylaan, is hierdie winkel passievol daaroor om kwaliteit instrumente, bykomstighede en dienste aan die musiekliefhebbende gemeenskap te verskaf. Of jy nou 'n beginner is wat jou eerste kitaar soek of 'n professionele persoon wat op soek is na spesifieke toerusting, Music Etc. SA het iets vir almal. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Potchefstroom: ‘n Dorp Waar Musiek in die Are Vloei Potchefstroom mag dalk op die oog af 'n stil universiteitsdorp wees, maar onder die oppervlak klop 'n hart vir musiek. Van rock tot klassieke musiek, van gemeenskapsprojekte tot groot verhoogoptredes—hierdie dorp het al ‘n paar ongelooflike talentvolle musikante die wêreld ingestuur. Of jy nou ‘n fan van alternatiewe rock is, hou van ‘n simfoniese uitvoering of self ‘n musiekinstrument wil leer speel, Potchefstroom het iets vir jou. Die Musiektoneel en Jong Talente Dit is nie net gevestigde kunstenaars wat hier floreer nie. Potch het ‘n bruisende studentegemeenskap en dit beteken daar is altyd ‘n klomp jong musikante wat hul eerste tree in die musiekbedryf gee. Met plekke soos die Snowflake Venue en The Jolly Dolphin, kry nuwe bands en solo-kunstenaars ‘n kans om voor ‘n gehoor te speel. Die Noordwes-Universiteit se Skool vir Musiek is ook ‘n plek waar talent ontwikkel word. Baie van die land se voorste klassieke en jazz-musikante het hier hul opleiding gekry. Dis ‘n plek waar musiek nie net ‘n vak is nie, maar ‘n passie wat gekoester word. Potch se Musiekidentiteit Elke plek het sy eie unieke musiekatmosfeer, en Potchefstroom is geen uitsondering nie. Dit is nie ‘n stad van massiewe stadions en kommersiële pop-kunstenaars nie, maar eerder ‘n plek waar musiek op ‘n meer intieme en egte manier geleef word. Hier word musiek in ou skure, universiteitsklasse, en op klein verhoogjies gemaak—maar dit is presies hoekom dit so spesiaal is. Musiek in Potch is gemeenskapgedrewe. Dit is nie net oor groot name en treffers nie, maar oor mense wat bymekaar kom om hul liefde vir musiek te deel. Van ‘n paar vriende wat in ‘n garage repeteer, tot ‘n professor wat ‘n student leer hoe om ‘n klassieke stuk op die klavier te speel—hier word musiek op ‘n persoonlike vlak gemaak. Foto : The Go-To Guy Creations Die Toekoms van Musiek in Potch Met nuwe tegnologie, ‘n groeiende musiekbedryf en ‘n sterk kulturele agtergrond, lyk die toekoms van musiek in Potchefstroom belowend. Meer kunstenaars laai hul musiek op platforms soos YouTube en Spotify, wat beteken dat ‘n jong musikant van Potch se klanke maklik wêreldwyd gehoor kan word. Daar is ook ‘n groter bewustheid van die belangrikheid van musiek in skole en gemeenskapsprojekte. Programme soos Musikhane bewys dat musiek nie net vir vermaak is nie, maar ook ‘n manier is om kinders se kreatiwiteit en selfvertroue te ontwikkel. Wie weet? Miskien is die volgende groot Suid-Afrikaanse musiekster op hierdie oomblik besig om in ‘n Potch-klaskamer sy of haar eerste liedjie te skryf. Slotgedagtes Potchefstroom mag dalk nie die musiekhoofstad van die land wees nie, maar dit het iets uniek: ‘n musiekkultuur wat diep in die hart van sy mense lê. Hier word musiek met passie en opregtheid gemaak, en dit is wat dit so spesiaal maak. Of jy nou ‘n aanhanger is van Straatligkinders, ‘n klassieke konsert by die Konservatorium wil bywoon, of net ‘n lekker gig by Snowflake wil ervaar—Potch het iets vir elke musiekliefhebber. So volgende keer as jy deur hierdie universiteitsdorp ry, hou jou ore oop. Jy mag dalk net die volgende groot Suid-Afrikaanse treffer hoor wat uit ‘n studentekamer of ‘n plaaslike musiekvenue se luidsprekers dreun.

As jy 'n aanhanger van Boereorkes is, dan weet jy reeds van die Kannie Warries Dansorkes. Hierdie groep laat dansvloere sedert hul ontstaan skud met hul vangbare wysies, energieke vertonings en egte klank. Of dit nou 'n plaaslike funksie, 'n lewendige klub, of 'n privaat geleentheid is, hierdie musikante bring die voetstamp en romp-swaai ritmes wat dit onmoontlik maak om stil te sit. Foto : Facebook Kannie Warries Dansorkes Die Klank van Kannie Warries Dansorkes Boereorkes gaan oor ritme, melodie en 'n goeie gees. Kannie Warries Dansorkes bly getrou aan die tradisies van die genre, terwyl hulle hul eie unieke styl inkorporeer. Hul musiek is vol banjo-rifs, hoofkitaar-solo’s en stewige tromslae wat die energie laat vloei. Met 'n kombinasie van klassieke gunstelinge en oorspronklike komposisies, sorg hulle dat elke vertoning 'n onvergeetlike ervaring is. Ontmoet die Orkes Die orkes bestaan uit ervare musikante wat elkeen hul eie spesiale klank tot die mengsel bring: Jurg Basson – Banjo Rudi Jooste – Hoofkitaar Ria Best – Ritmekitaar Ziaan Hattingh – Tromme Elke lid dra by tot die kenmerkende klank wat Kannie Warries Dansorkes 'n huishoudelike naam in die Boere musiekkringe gemaak het. Of dit nou Jurg se banjo-plukwerk of Ziaan se ritmiese dromspel is, elke noot word met passie en presisie gespeel. Die Langverwagte Album Aanbidders wag al lank op die nuwe album, en die opwinding is op 'n hoogtepunt. Met die groep se geskiedenis van hoë gehalte musiek, is verwagtinge deur die dak. Die nuwe vrystelling beloof om 'n vars blik op hul kenmerkende styl te gee, propvol liedjies wat enige braai, troue of sokkie op dreef sal kry. Waar om hulle Live te sien Kannie Warries Dansorkes tree gereeld by klubs, geleenthede en feeste op. As jy hul musiek live wil ervaar (wat die beste manier is), hou hul skedule dop. Hulle weet hoe om 'n gehoor aan die gang te kry, en hul vertonings is altyd 'n lekker tyd. Hoekom Hou Mense van Kannie Warries Dansorkes? Dis eenvoudig. Hulle bring die tipe musiek wat mense laat dans. Hul liedjies is lekker, energiek en diep gewortel in Boere musiektradisie. Of jy nou jonk of oud is, as jy hul musiek hoor, is die kans goed dat jy op die dansvloer beland. As jy nog nie Kannie Warries Dansorkes live gesien het nie, doen jouself 'n guns en gaan kyk hulle. Hul musiek, hul energie en hul liefde vir vermaak maak hulle 'n moet-sien groep in die wêreld van Boereorkes. Kannie Warries Dansorkes - Hoedspruit Vastrap Sosiale Media Platforms Facebook : Kliek Hier Instagram : Kliek Hier TikTok : Kliek Hier

Crimson House is not your average band. Founded in 2010 in Namibia by Arno Van Zyl and Riaan Smit, this group set out to create music that gave them a feeling of pure bliss. What started as a blues band quickly evolved into something no one could have predicted,a mix of bluegrass, gypsy, punk, folk, and rock with powerful, raspy vocals reminiscent of Tom Waits and Joe Cocker. Image : Facebook Crimson House The Early Days The first members to join the band were Christoph de Chevonnes Vrugt on drums and Jacques Jansen Van Rensburg on bass. Unlike typical blues musicians, their background in punk and metal pushed Crimson House into a unique musical direction. The result? A sound that was both energetic and unpredictable. Their debut album, Smoke, Dust & Whiskey, was recorded in a friend’s lounge with borrowed microphones and an old PC. Despite the DIY recording setup, the album received rave reviews, thanks to the mastering by Simon “Fuzzy” Ratcliffe (LARK) at Sound & Motion Studios in Cape Town. The lead single, “Breaking Down Low,” became a college radio hit, and the band cemented its place in the local music scene. From Festivals to Battle of the Bands By 2013, Crimson House had become a festival favorite. Their relentless touring schedule saw them performing at Synergy, Up the Creek, Splashy Fen, Flam Jangled Tea Party, Namrock, Rock the River, and Table Mountain Blues Summit. Their high-energy live shows made them impossible to ignore. One unexpected twist came when Jacques entered the band into a Battle of the Bands competition on AFM Radio. Crimson House didn’t just participate,they won. This victory led to the recording of their second full-length album, Red Shack Rock, produced by Wouter De Venter at VH Music & Publishing. The album received airplay on Tuks FM, DMX Radio on DSTV, and Mattie FM. A New Sound, A New Member During the recording of Red Shack Rock, the band collaborated with Nick Becker on alto saxophone, adding a whole new dimension to their music. Songs like “Pindrop Circle” featured guest performances from Mr Cat & the Jackal on accordion and saw, further expanding their sonic landscape. Becker soon became a full-time member, and Crimson House’s music took yet another unexpected turn. With all this new inspiration, the band returned to the studio. This time, they wanted a more raw, live-recorded feel. Enter Jo Ellis, a producer based in Ladismith, Karoo, who had previously worked with Willim Welsyn (Riaan’s cousin). The band made the journey to record what they now consider their first “real” album. Going International In 2014, Crimson House received multiple invitations to perform in the United States. Due to budget constraints, only Riaan and Nick could make the trip, but that didn’t stop them. Over three months, they played festivals in Arizona, San Diego, L.A., San Francisco, New Orleans, Nashville, Memphis, and New York City. While in the U.S., they had the incredible opportunity to record with Alan Sanderson, a producer who had worked with The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, BB King, and Elton John. With just one studio day and no full band, they still managed to record two songs,one original and a version of the 400-year-old British drinking song, “St. James Infirmary.” The Evolution of Crimson House Initially known as Crimson House Blues, the band decided to drop “Blues” from their name. They didn’t want to be boxed into one genre. At any given show, Crimson House can seamlessly shift between Latin, gypsy, folk, blues, rock, punk, metal, grunge, funk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. It’s an experience, not just a performance. But what does the name Crimson House really mean? Some assume it’s a nod to Jimi Hendrix’s “Red House”, but in reality, it represents a place of solace, a musical home for all people, regardless of culture, background, or belief. A Crimson House show isn’t just a concert,it’s an invitation to be part of something bigger. Where to Find Crimson House If you haven’t seen them live yet, do yourself a favor and check them out. Their shows are nothing short of electric, and their music continues to evolve with every performance. Crimson House is proof that great music doesn’t follow the rules. Whether they’re playing for a packed festival crowd or recording in a Karoo farmhouse, one thing is clear—they are here to make music their way. Crimson House - Unicorns Social Media Pages Facebook : Click Here Instagram : Click Here

Music lovers always appreciate a band that brings something fresh to the table. SHARD is one of those bands—an eclectic Pop/Rock group from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) that has carved out its own space in the music scene. Since its formation on June 26, 2018, SHARD has continuously evolved, experimenting with new sounds while staying true to its energetic and engaging style. Image : Facebook Shard The Meaning Behind the Name Ever wondered where SHARD got its name? It’s not just a cool-sounding word. The name is actually an acronym, formed using the first letters of the original members’ names: S – Sean Achilleos (Vocals) – 2018 to present H – Hannes van Wyk (Drums) – 2018 (replaced by Hannes van Zyl in 2018-19, Johan Jordaan in 2019, and Gary Cunliffe in 2020-present) A – Andrew van Wyk (Rhythm guitar) – 2018-22 (replaced by Seth de Kock in 2022-present) R – Robin Price (Rhythm guitar) – 2018 to present D – Dylan Du Plessis (Bass & Lead guitar) – 2018-22 (replaced by Kerry Blewett in 2022-present) Over the years, the band has seen a few lineup changes, but their commitment to making great music has remained constant. The Sound of SHARD SHARD’s music is a blend of pop and rock, with influences ranging from classic rock anthems to modern pop melodies. Their sound is dynamic, shifting between hard-hitting guitar riffs and smooth, melodic harmonies. Whether it’s an upbeat, crowd-pleasing track or a more introspective ballad, the band knows how to keep things interesting. They’ve also embraced live brass elements, featuring freelance trombonist and bassist Tiago Jose Vital, who has performed with SHARD on various occasions. This addition brings an extra layer of richness to their music, giving their live performances a unique edge. Band Evolution & Milestones Since their early days, SHARD has played in venues across Gqeberha and beyond, steadily building a loyal fanbase. With each performance, they’ve fine-tuned their craft, learning what works best for both intimate gigs and larger festival stages. Their online presence has also helped them gain traction. Through social media, especially their Facebook page, they keep fans updated with new music, videos, and upcoming performances. They’ve made it clear that they’re not just about the music—they want to connect with their audience and take fans along for the journey. The Current Lineup SHARD’s current lineup brings together a diverse range of talent and musical influences: Sean Achilleos (Vocals) – A powerful vocalist with a commanding stage presence. Gary Cunliffe (Drums) – The backbone of the band, keeping the rhythm tight and energetic. Seth de Kock (Lead Guitar) – A recent addition, bringing fresh energy and intricate guitar work. Robin Price (Rhythm Guitar) – One of the founding members, holding down the core of the band’s sound. Kerry Blewett (Bass Guitar) – Solid and steady, rounding out the low-end groove. Tiago Jose Vital (Trombone & Bass – Guest Musician) – A multi-instrumentalist who adds an extra dimension to SHARD’s sound. What’s Next for SHARD? The band is constantly writing, recording, and performing, always looking for ways to push their sound further. Fans can expect new music, more live performances, and perhaps even some surprise collaborations in the near future. SHARD has already proven that they have the talent and drive to make an impact in the music industry. With their ability to adapt, evolve, and engage with their audience, there’s no telling how far they’ll go. One thing is certain,this is a band that’s just getting started. If you haven’t already, it’s time to jump on board and enjoy the ride with SHARD. SHARD - Addicted to Love Social Media Pages Facebook : Click Here