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]
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]
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.
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®.
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]
Johannesburg, October 16, 2024 – The acclaimed production and marketing company Milk and Cookies has announced its first-ever festival in South Africa, featuring the celebrated artist Kaytranada as the headliner. Scheduled for January 5 and January 11, 2025, the Milk + Cookies Festival will take place in Cape Town and Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone for the festival as it expands its reach internationally.
Founded in 2009 by four Morehouse College alumni, Milk and Cookies has built a reputation for curating exceptional live events for top artists and brands across the globe. With nearly two decades of experience, the company aims to deliver a dynamic fusion of music, culture, and technology through this inaugural festival.
The Milk + Cookies Festival will be the centerpiece of the first Milk + Cookies Music Week South Africa, an 11-day celebration running from December 31, 2024, to January 11, 2025. This cultural extravaganza will include concerts, immersive experiences, and artist development programs, alongside performances by local and international talent.
Kaytranada, known for his unique blend of house, funk, and soul, will perform two highly anticipated shows:
Cape Town: January 5, 2025, at Cape Town Ostrich Ranch
Johannesburg: January 11, 2025, at Old Park Station
"We're incredibly honored to host the Milk + Cookies Festival in South Africa. This isn't just about putting on a show; it's about immersing ourselves in the culture and contributing to it," said a spokesperson for Milk & Cookies. "South Africa's influence on music and art is profound, and we want to pay homage to that by making it the home of our first international festival."
The festival will kick off in Cape Town with New Year’s celebrations, yacht parties, and exclusive fashion pop-ups featuring local designers. Throughout the week, local artists and DJs will provide the soundtrack to brunch mixers, fostering creative exchanges among artists from the U.S., South Africa, and other African nations.
The second week of the festival will focus on nurturing emerging talent through workshops, panels, and networking events modeled after the successful ATL Music Week. Activities will include songwriting camps and listening sessions designed to foster collaboration between South African and American artists.
The expansion into South Africa follows the overwhelming success of the inaugural Milk + Cookies Music Week in Atlanta in 2024, which attracted over 10,000 attendees and featured an impressive lineup of performances.
"Bringing Milk + Cookies to South Africa is more than just an expansion—it's a celebration of culture, unity, and the universal language of music," the spokesperson added. "We believe South Africa's vibrant cultural scene is the perfect setting for this milestone event, and we’re excited to create unforgettable moments together with local artists and audiences."
For more information on the Milk + Cookies Festival and updates on the music week, visit www.milkandcookiesfestival or follow them on social media @milkcookiesfest.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Fans of the British pop icon Robbie Williams will need to adjust their diaries but can expect double the fun in January 2025! Due to a clash with his promotional commitments for the upcoming "Better Man" biopic in the USA, Robbie has had to shuffle his schedule. Unfortunately, the Johannesburg show originally planned for 18 January at the FNB Stadium is no longer on the cards. But fear not—he’s making up for it in a spectacular way!
Instead of one performance, Williams will now be treating fans to two shows at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena, Time Square, on Saturday, 25 January, and Sunday, 26 January. It’s a 947 and M-Net powered, Big Concerts extravaganza that promises to bring the house down!
While the date change may be disappointing for some, Robbie’s South African fans can look forward to twice the opportunity to witness his legendary energy live on stage. Williams, who has been wowing crowds for over two decades with his hits like "Angels," "Let Me Entertain You," and "Rock DJ," is known for his magnetic presence and cheeky humor. Whether you’ve been a die-hard fan since the Take That days or fell in love with his solo charisma, this is one performance not to be missed.
For those who had tickets to the Johannesburg show, refunds will be automatically processed (expect up to 10 days for the reflection). If your payment details are no longer saved, Ticketmaster will be in touch to make alternative arrangements. And here's the kicker: you’ll get first dibs on pre-sale tickets for the two Pretoria shows on Thursday, 24 October—so keep an eye on your inbox for that golden ticket opportunity!
If you're in the general public, fear not, as the official sale opens on Friday, 25 October at 9 am. Get ready to grab those tickets because Pretoria is about to become the heart of Robbie-mania.
For those planning to attend the Cape Town show at the iconic DHL Stadium on 22 January, rest assured—nothing has changed. That event will go ahead as planned, serving up an electrifying prelude to Robbie’s Pretoria takeover.
Remember, if you had a Park & Ride or parking ticket for the original Johannesburg show, refunds will be issued automatically. Any further queries can be directed to Park and Ride SA.
Robbie’s message to his South African fans? Hang tight, get ready for an unforgettable weekend, and let him entertain you—times two!
GAUTENG DATE AND VENUE CHANGE
25 January 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria
26 January 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In the annals of pop culture history, few tales carry the weight of tragedy, misunderstanding, and eventual redemption like that of Milli Vanilli. The story of this duo, who rose to iconic heights only to plummet amid one of the music industry's most infamous scandals, has long been shrouded in ridicule. However, the recent release of Milli Vanilli, a new documentary, and an emotional interview with Fab Morvan offer us a fresh, poignant perspective on ambition, exploitation, and—most importantly—resilience.
Milli Vanilli’s meteoric rise began in 1988 with the release of their debut album, Girl You Know It’s True. A contagious blend of R&B, rap, and dance music, the record shot to fame with chart-toppers like “Blame It on the Rain” and “Don’t Forget My Number,” selling over six million copies in the U.S. alone. Rob Pilatus and Fab Morvan, with their striking attractive looks, braided hair, and signature style, were the embodiment of the MTV generation—a pop sensation tailor-made for success. But the reality beneath the surface was darker than anyone could have imagined.
Their producer, Frank Farian, orchestrated an elaborate charade behind the scenes, using session singers for the actual vocals, while Morvan and Pilatus took on the role of the frontmen. In 1990, this carefully crafted illusion shattered. During a press conference that rocked the music world, Farian confessed that the duo had been lip-syncing their way to fame. The immediate and catastrophic fallout resulted in Milli Vanilli losing their Grammy Award for Best New Artist, transforming their once-fantastic journey into public humiliation.
Luke Korem's documentary, Milli Vanilli, unfolds a deeper narrative that encompasses not only deception but also exploitation. Fab Morvan revealed to me in an exclusive interview that they were vulnerable men, swept into a system they didn’t fully understand. “We were young and naïve when we signed the contract,” Fab shares. “We didn’t have Google or lawyers to assist us. Frank had sold over 800 million records, and we fully trusted him.” The project ultimately made over $300 million, but Fab points out that most of those profits went to record labels, who exploited artists even further. “95% of those artists are either now dead, went bankrupt, or have never been heard from again,” he adds with a grim reflection.
The documentary doesn’t just focus on the deception—it sheds light on the exploitative dynamics that permeated the industry. Fab and Rob weren’t merely puppets in a scandal; they were artists stifled by a system that valued image over talent. Fab acknowledges the lessons learnt, saying that if he could go back, he would demand transparency. “I would want the person to show me what was going to happen, so I could remember all the downfalls,” he shares.
For Rob Pilatus, the collapse was unbearable, as he continued to struggle with addiction in 1998. “Rob died of a broken heart as the jokes were brutal,” Fab says, with a sense of grief that still lingers. The true heartbreak, Fab says, wasn’t the loss of the Grammy or the millions of dollars—they could live with that. “The biggest low was losing Rob, ” a statement that echoes through every word he speaks. This loss inspired him to write songs like Life is Beautiful and It's Your Life.
Fab could not assist Rob out of the his strife as he was struggling himself, however he chose a different path. He focused on his music, rebuilt his life, and found solace in his art. “Music saved my life. I focused my energy on writing songs, learning how to play instruments, and receiving voice training,” . It was his tenacity that guided him through the darkness. “It took strength, resilience, understanding, and emotional intelligence to get out of the depths of despair. Depression is a vicious cycle. You will never start anything; you will stay in bed and you will never believe in yourself. Your emotional intelligence will be at ground zero” if you fail to lift from the depression.
Today, Fab’s story is no longer one of scandal but one of triumph. He recently took to the stage at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, marking his first performance in South Africa. The nostalgic and emotional event moved fans to tears, transporting them back in time. Fab was energetic, his voice strong and the music richer. He used every octave to ensure that the crowd not only heard the music but felt every vibration. Many in the crowd argued—and it’s hard to disagree—that these current versions of his songs surpass the originals in both depth, quality, and power.
Fab Morvan’s journey is a testament to the fact that life can knock you down. It will lift you to dizzying heights and then kick you in the teeth. But Fab’s resilience shows that no matter how harsh life hits, you have the power to rise again. Today, he focusses on his music, his family, and his new venture, Fabmilly.com. “It’s a place where you can discover the tools I have used to survive while travelling through time,” he explains. He wants to stay healthy and teach people to make good decisions.
What was once a story of regret and public shame has transformed into one of survival and celebration. Fab Morvan’s image is no longer defined by a scandal but by his undying love for music, for life, and his determination to reclaim his place in the world. “Music is life, and life is music,” he says, reminding us all that, in the end, it’s not about the fall, but how you rise, and the strength it takes to turn loss into legacy.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Over the past weekend, Blunt stood on the SunBet Arena stage in Pretoria, South Africa, and delivered a show that was, if only in part, not just a concert! It was a means of transport—across time and emotions—that took the 8,000 listeners in the audience on a wave of nostalgia, retrospection, and happiness. Blunt’s ability to stay popular, especially after his first album Back to Bedlam and the hit song You’re Beautiful in 2004, is impressive. Now in his 50s, he’s still selling out concerts worldwide, while many of his peers have faded from the spotlight.
This is not solely due to his talent. It is also his originality, humour, and ability to connect with people of all ages. Blunt isn’t simply a popular music figure; he is a artist who rouses emotions through every tale he has to share. All people can connect with music that remains relevant across centuries and themes.
Blunt's gift of turning self-examination into a collective feeling is one of the secrets to his massive appeal While other artists wear out their welcome by overusing the same themes in their hits, Blunt has been building on the timeless content of love, loss, and finding oneself ever since he broke into the music scene. His songs, which revolve around universal themes like relationships, disappointment, and sadness, are incredibly appealing.
However, Blunt's music isn't the only reason for his charm. His honesty, coupled with his self-defense, has fostered a certain attachment with his audience. He has reconciled with both the sweet praises bestowed upon him and the bitter poison occasionally found in the reviews. On social platforms, he undervalues any negativity and transforms it into a humorous portrayal of his opponent, thereby elevating his level of acquaintance appeal. His performances' intensity is also centered on his sense of humor. His life has been laced with tragedy. Whether his piece of art is new or old, he will give every song the same commitment as if it were his first time performing. Even at the largest venues, live shows feel personal because each performance connects with the audience.
Beyond simply being talented, what gives Blunt longevity are the strong ties he holds with the music industry. Ed Sheeran and other current celebrities are good friends with him, which demonstrates his strong position among industry colleagues. For instance, Ed Sheeran's description of him as a "National Treasure" underscores the accuracy of this definition. These connections make Blunt visible to the public, engaging the younger audience who might not have heard of this artist before. However, despite his success, Blunt remains steadfast in his refusal to follow trends. On the contrary, Blunt sticks with the type of music that won him over his fans. Embracing exceptional creativity is ageless.
One of the reasons James Blunt is so fascinating is that, beneath his humble and modest personality, he's lived an extraordinary life. From his time in the British Army to his rise in the world of pop music, Blunt's journey is anything but ordinary. He is not simply a celebrity or a pop singer; he is a person who has traveled the world and seen both the good and the bad things the planet has to offer, and that is what brings life to his music.
While many individuals at an earlier stage of their career may become discouraged due to the popularity of disposable 'fashion', excessive inspiration, or musical fatigue, Blunt continues to thrive. His journey serves as a pertinent reminder that achievement is not just about making successful albums but also about real leadership, hard work, and a capacity for intimacy.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
(South Africa, 16 September 2024) – Due to overwhelming demand, an additional Cape Town concert has been confirmed for Sting’s highly anticipated “STING 3.0” Tour. The new date is set for 26 March 2025 at the Grand Arena, GrandWest. Tickets are now available for purchase from 9 am today via www.bigconcerts.co.za and www.ticketmaster.co.za.
Sting, a 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist, continues to push musical boundaries with his “STING 3.0” Tour, presented by Cherrytree Music Company and Big Concerts. Featuring long-time collaborator and virtuoso guitarist Dominic Miller, and dynamic drummer Chris Maas (Mumford & Sons, Maggie Rogers), Sting will deliver electrifying performances, including both fan-favourite hits and hidden gems from his vast catalogue. This latest tour is powered by Hot 102.7 FM and in association with KFM 94.5.
The tour kicks off at the SunBet Arena, Time Square in Pretoria on 22 March 2025, followed by two concerts in Cape Town on 25 March and the newly added 26 March 2025 at the Grand Arena, GrandWest.
Sting’s 3.0 South African Tour Dates:
Saturday, 22 March 2025 – SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria
Tuesday, 25 March 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
Wednesday, 26 March 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town (new date)
Tickets for the additional Cape Town concert are available starting at 9:00 AM today from www.ticketmaster.co.za and www.bigconcerts.co.za.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to see Sting live in Cape Town for an unforgettable musical experience!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
