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Sunday, February 09, 2025
Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
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27 Jan 2025
For two unforgettable hours, Pretoria’s SunBet Arena was the epicenter of euphoria, as Robbie Williams delivered a masterclass in performance that will echo in the hearts of fans for years to come.

For two unforgettable hours, Pretoria’s SunBet Arena was the epicenter of euphoria, as Robbie Williams delivered a masterclass in performance that will echo in the hearts of fans for years to come. The world’s greatest showman, brought to South Africa by Big Concerts, seamlessly combined his magnetic stage presence with heartfelt vulnerability, leaving no doubt as to why he’s a global phenomenon.

Originally planned as a massive event at FNB Stadium, the show evolved into two intimate nights at Africa’s premier live venue, enhancing the connection between Robbie and his devoted fans. “This isn’t just a concert,” Robbie told the crowd, “this is therapy.” And therapy it was—both for him and for the eight thousand who filled the arena.
It had been nearly two decades since Robbie last performed in South Africa, but the wait proved worth it. Dressed in a sleek white suit, he kicked off with the electrifying Let Me Entertain You and powered through an iconic setlist of hits like Millennium, Love My Life, and Kids, interspersed with cheeky humor and deeply personal anecdotes. Robbie bared his soul, speaking candidly about his struggles with depression, addiction, and anxiety. He credited his fans with saving his life, saying, “I needed to become human again.”

The emotional depth of the evening reached new heights with a stirring medley of Rock DJ, Feel, and the timeless Angels, leaving the arena spellbound. Heartwarming moments abounded, including a heartfelt dedication of She’s the One to a fan and a playful interlude where Robbie recorded a video message for a fan’s daughter, further showcasing his unparalleled connection with his audience. Between songs, Robbie’s wit and charm lit up the room. He shared personal stories, poked fun at his Take That days, and bantered with the crowd, transforming the massive arena into an intimate gathering.

As if the concert wasn’t enough, fans were treated to an exclusive preview of Better Man, the highly anticipated biopic about Robbie’s life. Directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman), the film takes a bold creative leap, replacing Robbie with a CGI chimpanzee as a metaphor for the artificiality of fame. Narrated by Robbie, with motion-captured performance by Jonno Davies, the film strikes a balance between raw vulnerability and wry humor.
Gracey’s daring direction elevates Better Man beyond the typical rock biopic formula. By infusing the story with humor and mischief, the film captures Robbie’s conflicted relationship with fame and his compulsion to perform. The CGI chimp device, while unconventional, adds a layer of unpredictability and emotional resonance.

The film delves into Robbie’s working-class childhood, his struggles with addiction, and the emotional milestones of his life, including the loss of his grandmother and his relationships. While some moments veer into therapy-speak, the narrative’s self-awareness and Gracey’s heartfelt direction keep it grounded.

Concertgoers couldn’t hold back their praise. Julia Meyer called it “the most soul-baring performance I’ve ever seen.” Mpho Nkosi described the night as “an unforgettable blend of charisma, comedy, and raw emotion.” Zane Daniels, another fan, said, “Robbie gave us his heart on that stage—it was a night of pure magic.”

With the biopic’s surreal brilliance and Robbie’s unparalleled showmanship, this wasn’t just a celebration of a career—it was a testament to resilience, connection, and the unifying power of music. As the final notes rang out, it was clear: Robbie Williams isn’t just a performer; he’s a force of nature.

Photo Credit: Kurt Sassenburg

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
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16 Jan 2025
R&B icon Keyshia Cole has suffered a devastating personal loss as her Los Angeles home was completely destroyed in the raging wildfires that have swept across California.

R&B icon Keyshia Cole has suffered a devastating personal loss as her Los Angeles home was completely destroyed in the raging wildfires that have swept across California. The tragedy was confirmed by her hairstylist and close friend, Jonathan Wright, who shared the news on Instagram, accompanied by heartfelt pleas for prayers and support for the singer and her family.

The wildfires, which have left a trail of destruction across the state, consumed Cole's residence while she was away in Miami. Wright’s emotional post revealed the extent of the devastation, sharing images of the property reduced to ashes and rubble. “Prayers to Freen [Keyshia Cole’s nickname], her kids, and family. Please lift her spirits,” he wrote.

As a result of this tragedy, Cole’s much-anticipated South African tour, scheduled for January 2025, has been cancelled. Organizers announced the decision on social media, expressing their sympathy for the singer’s loss and confirming that ticket holders would receive updates via email in the coming days.

This wildfire season has been particularly catastrophic, with over 12,000 structures destroyed, including homes of other celebrities like Billy Crystal and Mandy Moore. The death toll has risen to at least 24, and thousands of residents have been displaced, prompting widespread discussions about climate change and disaster preparedness.

In the wake of her loss, the music industry and fans have rallied around Cole. Fellow artists have extended offers of studio time and resources to help her continue her work, and benefit concerts are being organized to support wildfire victims, including Cole and her family.

Cole, celebrated for hits like "Love", now joins countless others who face the daunting task of rebuilding after such a devastating loss. Her home, filled with irreplaceable personal and professional memorabilia, stands as a reminder of the indiscriminate power of nature.

As California begins its long recovery, Cole’s fans remain hopeful that she will overcome this adversity and return to her music, inspiring others with her resilience and strength.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
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15 Jan 2025
Big Concerts, in association with KFM 94.5 and powered by Hot 102.7 FM, is thrilled to present Mike + The Mechanics on their much-anticipated ‘Looking Back - Living The Years 2025 Tour.’ Adding to the excitement, the iconic band will be joined by two of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians, Arno Carstens and Albert Frost, as opening acts.

Big Concerts, in association with KFM 94.5 and powered by Hot 102.7 FM, is thrilled to present Mike + The Mechanics on their much-anticipated ‘Looking Back - Living The Years 2025 Tour.’ Adding to the excitement, the iconic band will be joined by two of South Africa’s most celebrated musicians, Arno Carstens and Albert Frost, as opening acts.

Arno Carstens and Albert Frost: A Musical Collaboration Reignited
Arno Carstens, former frontman of the legendary Springbok Nude Girls, has achieved acclaim both as a bandleader and a solo artist, with numerous awards and albums to his name. His longtime collaborator, Albert Frost, is a revered figure in South Africa’s blues-rock scene, boasting a 21-year tenure with the Blues Broers and collaborations with various notable artists.

The duo shares a rich history, having co-written and recorded two of Carstens’ standout albums, Another Universe and The Hello Goodbye Boys. Reflecting on their enduring partnership, Carstens says, “At our core, we share a similar melodic and rhythmical feel for music—and a sense of humor.” Fans can look forward to a dynamic, memorable performance as they reunite on stage.

Nic Collins Returns to the Drums
The tour also marks the return of Nic Collins, son of legendary Genesis frontman Phil Collins, as drummer for Mike + The Mechanics. Nic first joined the band during their ‘Refuelled! Tour’ in 2023, bringing a fresh energy that captivated audiences across Europe.

Nic’s drumming prowess was showcased during the globe-trotting Genesis ‘Last Domino?’ Tour (2021/22), earning him accolades as one of the Best Rock and Prog Drummers of 2021 by MusicRadar.com. On his return, Nic shared, “I’m thrilled to be heading back on the road with Mike + The Mechanics. The last tour was so much fun, and I’m honored to be part of this next chapter.”

Mike Rutherford added, “Nic brings great energy to the band. It’s nice to keep it in the family.”

Tour Highlights
The tour kicks off in Cape Town at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on Thursday, 30 January 2025, before heading to the SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria, on Saturday, 1 February 2025. After the South African dates, the band will embark on a 30-show tour across the UK.

Audiences can expect timeless hits like ‘Over My Shoulder,’ ‘The Living Years,’ and ‘All I Need Is A Miracle’, alongside select classics from Genesis’s legendary catalog.

Mike Rutherford expressed his excitement, saying, “Touring with the band last year was a joy. The camaraderie and audience reception were incredible. We knew we had to do it again. We can’t wait to see you!”

A Legacy of Excellence
Formed in 1985 by Mike Rutherford as a side project to Genesis, Mike + The Mechanics became a global phenomenon, selling over 10 million albums and producing iconic tracks that defined an era. With the current lineup featuring vocalists Andrew Roachford and Tim Howar, the band continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

For tickets and more information, visit: www.mikeandthemechanics.com

South African Tour Dates
Cape Town: Thursday, 30 January 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest
Pretoria: Saturday, 1 February 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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Submitted By Jeffrey Greco  Music
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09 Jan 2025
Shot from Oteil and Friends at Ardmore Music Hall

Had the pleasure of photographing Oteil and Friends at Ardmore music hall. The music and vibe was incredible. The music flows through Oteil from the heavens truly a lightning rod for the an incredible gift.
[Submitted by Jeffrey Greco]

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Submitted By Jeffrey Greco  Music
802085373_1736366865_0_Oteil_.jpg
09 Jan 2025
Melvin Seals from Oteil and Friends at Ardmore Music Hall

The amazing Melvin Seals from Oteil and Friends at Ardmore Music Hall Oct 2024
[Submitted by Jeffrey Greco]

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https://www.facebook.com/jeffgreco74

https://www.jeffreyrgrecophotography.com

https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyrgrecophotography/


Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
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03 Jan 2025
Milk and Cookies, the globally recognized production and marketing company, has officially unveiled the full program for its inaugural Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa, running from January 3 to January 12, 2025.

Milk and Cookies, the globally recognized production and marketing company, has officially unveiled the full program for its inaugural Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa, running from January 3 to January 12, 2025. This landmark event marks the festival’s first international expansion, promising a dynamic blend of music, culture, and technology across Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Headlining the festival is Grammy-winning DJ and producer Kaytranada, who will perform in both cities. The week-long event also features a diverse array of panels, exclusive parties, and live performances, all designed to celebrate African talent and foster cross-cultural collaborations.

A First for South Africa
Building on the success of last year’s Atlanta edition—which drew over 10,000 attendees and hosted 38 performances—Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa aims to amplify the brand's global presence. By blending local creativity with international talent, the event highlights the vibrant cultural landscape of South Africa.

“This is more than a festival,” said a representative from Milk and Cookies. “It’s a platform for innovation, connection, and celebrating African music and culture on the global stage.”

Cape Town Schedule (January 3–5)
Dot Connector Panels (Jan 3): Industry leaders and creatives explore the intersections of music, tech, and art.
Out The Oven Merch Pop-Up Party (Jan 3): A night of exclusive merchandise and live DJ performances.
Milk + Cookies Festival (Jan 5): Kaytranada headlines alongside DJ Kent, Zakes Bantwini, and others at The Ostrich.

Johannesburg Schedule (January 9–12)
The Royale Mixer (Jan 9): A private dinner for key players in music, fashion, and art.
Milk + Cookies Festival (Jan 11): Huddle Park hosts a stellar lineup, including Kitty Cash, DJ Lag, and Muzi.
Dot Connector Panels (Jan 12): A closing event featuring thought-provoking discussions and exclusive merchandise.

A Celebration of Music and Community
From yacht parties in Cape Town to vinyl celebrations in Johannesburg, Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa blends creativity with innovation. The festival emphasizes a commitment to showcasing African talent while fostering collaborations with international acts, creating an experience that transcends borders.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
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27 Nov 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa — A new era in live entertainment is set to begin in South Africa with the opening of The Dome, a state-of-the-art venue launching in January 2025.

Johannesburg, South Africa — A new era in live entertainment is set to begin in South Africa with the opening of The Dome, a state-of-the-art venue launching in January 2025. Located in Nasrec, adjacent to the iconic FNB Stadium, this multi-purpose space will be South Africa's largest dedicated entertainment venue, boasting a capacity of over 10,500.

A joint venture between Live Nation, Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA), and Gearhouse South Africa, The Dome is Live Nation’s first permanent venue on the African continent. The move signals the company’s commitment to enhancing Africa’s live entertainment infrastructure, expanding the touring circuit, and creating opportunities for local and international artists.

A Hub for Pan-African Talent
The Dome aims to be a cultural hotspot for both South African and pan-African talent, featuring genres such as Afrobeats, Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Dance, R&B, and Pop. Nigerian sensation Tems is set to make history with her first solo headline show at the venue on 20 March 2025, marking a milestone for the region’s music scene.

Beyond concerts, the 6,000sqm multi-purpose facility will host conferences, exhibitions, product launches, and banquets, creating a versatile space that fuels economic growth and community engagement.

Driving Economic and Cultural Impact
Justin Van Wyk, CEO of Live Nation South Africa, highlighted the venue’s transformative potential:
"The Dome fills a critical gap in South Africa’s live entertainment industry, creating a platform to connect emerging and established artists with diverse South African audiences. It’s more than a venue—it’s a gateway to new opportunities."

Bertie Grobbelaar, CEO of Stadium Management South Africa, echoed these sentiments:
"This collaboration reflects our shared vision to empower local talent, drive economic growth, and create a vibrant cultural hub for Johannesburg and the Gauteng Province. We’re proud to play a part in this groundbreaking project."

Gearhouse South Africa, a leader in live event technology, brings its expertise to the partnership, ensuring The Dome meets the highest standards in audio-visual production, staging, and design. Joint CEOs Ofer Lapid and Nasser Abbas expressed their excitement:
"This partnership combines our shared passion for service excellence with a vision for creating unparalleled live experiences in Africa."

A New Era of Entertainment
Entirely designed, manufactured, and built in South Africa, The Dome represents a fusion of local innovation and global expertise. By hosting world-class events and fostering community initiatives like job creation and local business support, the venue promises to uplift Johannesburg and beyond.

Seasoned music fans, corporate clients, and budding artists alike can look forward to a world-class experience in a venue that’s set to redefine live entertainment in Africa.

Tickets for events at The Dome, including Tems’ headline show, are available at www.livenationentertainment.com.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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Submitted By USPA  Music
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24 Nov 2024
November is National Entrepreneurship Month, and there’s no better time to highlight the vital contributions of freelance journalists and independent media creators to the modern news landscape.

November is National Entrepreneurship Month, and there’s no better time to highlight the vital contributions of freelance journalists and independent media creators to the modern news landscape. At the US Press Association, we recognize the incredible entrepreneurial spirit that drives these professionals. From tackling investigative stories to capturing pivotal moments on camera, freelance journalists embody resilience, innovation, and adaptability.

The landscape of journalism has evolved dramatically, with independent creators often filling gaps left by traditional media. Today’s freelance reporters navigate not only breaking news but also the challenges of establishing credibility in a digital world saturated with misinformation. With tools like the US Press Association’s press credentials, freelancers gain the recognition they deserve, accessing opportunities to tell impactful stories that might otherwise go unheard.

This month, we also celebrate the milestones of our members, like Joanne J-Bird Phillips, who has covered iconic events such as the GRAMMY Awards® and is a staple in the NYC music scene. Their achievements showcase how dedication, combined with the right resources, can lead to extraordinary professional success.

As we honor entrepreneurs of all kinds, we invite our community to continue supporting independent journalists. Share their stories, subscribe to their platforms, and encourage their efforts. Together, we can ensure that the entrepreneurial spirit of freelance journalism thrives in an ever-changing media world.

Stay connected with the US Press Association for resources, inspiration, and updates on how we’re empowering the next generation of independent journalists.

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Submitted By G. DePretis  Music
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17 Nov 2024
We are proud to celebrate USPA member Joanne J-Bird Phillips, who has the opportunity to cover the highly anticipated 2025 Grammy Awards®.

We are proud to celebrate USPA member Joanne J-Bird Phillips, who has the opportunity to cover the highly anticipated 2025 Grammy Awards®. This prestigious opportunity places Joanne in the company of renowned publications such as Rolling Stone, The New York Times, Variety, and Billboard.

Joanne has been a valued member of the US Press Association for approximately nine years, and her accomplishments during this time are a testament to her dedication to the craft of journalism. She expressed her gratitude and humility at being seated among such iconic media outlets, but her extensive experience and expertise make her a perfect fit for this role.

With nearly a decade of USPA membership, Joanne has become a seasoned professional in covering major events. She has graced the red carpet at high-profile music occasions, including U2 bassist Adam Clayton's acceptance of the Stevie Ray Vaughan Award at the Sony PlayStation Theatre in New York City.

Beyond her work at marquee events, Joanne is deeply immersed in the dynamic New York City music scene and has established a strong presence on a national scale. Her unwavering passion and keen insights into the music industry continue to distinguish her as a leading voice in the field.

Congratulations to Joanne J-Bird Phillips on this extraordinary achievement and on her remarkable journey as a USPA member! We can’t wait to see her contributions at the upcoming Grammy Awards®.


Submitted By Kevin Rademeyer  Music
802085245_1730700854_0_Lauren.jpg
04 Nov 2024
Big Concerts is excited to announce that Grammy Award-winning artist Lauren Daigle will grace South African stages in March 2025.



Big Concerts is excited to announce that Grammy Award-winning artist Lauren Daigle will grace South African stages in March 2025. Known for her soul-stirring voice and powerful hits, Daigle will perform at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town on March 18, followed by a show at SunBet Arena, Time Square in Pretoria on March 20. This much-anticipated tour is set to deliver an unforgettable experience, celebrating the inspiration and artistry of Daigle’s music—a hallmark of Big Concerts, powered by GROOTfm 90.5.

The Discovery Bank pre-sale will commence at 09:00 on November 6 and conclude at 08:59 on November 8. Discovery Bank members should monitor their inboxes for an email containing exclusive pre-sale links. General ticket sales will open to the public at 09:00 on November 8 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or Big Concerts.

Lauren Daigle is not only a two-time Grammy winner but also boasts a remarkable collection of accolades, including seven Billboard Music Awards, four American Music Awards, and twelve GMA Dove Awards. Her breakout album, Look Up Child (2018), achieved double-platinum status and features the iconic anthem “You Say,” which has resonated with millions, earning six-times platinum certification. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, marking a historic moment as Daigle became the first female artist to enter the Top 10 on both the Pop and Christian Album charts.
In addition to her musical achievements, Daigle is committed to giving back. She founded The Price Fund in 2018, which focuses on supporting at-risk youth, children, and the elderly. To date, the foundation has distributed nearly $3.5 million to nonprofits around the globe, effecting meaningful change in countless lives.

Lauren Ashley Daigle, born on September 9, 1991, is an acclaimed American contemporary Christian music artist. After signing with Centricity Music, she released her debut album, How Can It Be, in 2015, which topped the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart and produced three No. 1 singles. Her third studio album, Look Up Child, released in 2018, solidified her place in music history with its unprecedented success and emotional depth. With a distinctive blend of pop, gospel, and soul, Daigle continues to inspire audiences with her uplifting messages and compelling performances.

Tour Dates
March 18, 2025: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
March 20, 2025: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

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