What is true? Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Studios answered that question with a well-curated program of true music. Soweto was buzzing with the sound of South Africa’s truest music; starting the weekend just right, on a Thursday, in the heart of Orlando with a stellar starting lineup.
With a series of events that unite communities to highlight and celebrate local sounds, scenes, and cultures, Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Studios promotes diversity and inclusivity in music. Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Studios travelled to the historic Soweto, home to both Amapiano and underground icon Njelic, from the 15th to the 18th of February. This follows True Music Studios in Johannesburg last year which celebrated the sounds of Amapiano in collaboration with music pioneer, DJ, and hitmaker, DBN Gogo. Njelic, who was born and bred in Soweto and is a veteran of the South African house scene, was the main collaborator for the Soweto version of True Music Studios. His impact continues to help mould the ever-evolving Amapiano genre.
Soweto has continued to support South Africa’s music scene and gain notoriety throughout the world despite having Gauteng’s highest concentration of poverty. The four-day True Music Studios festival set out to recognise and honour the subsequent generation of ground-breaking artists emerging from the metropolis who are continuing the legacy of these Sowetan icons like Njelic.
Kabza Da Small, Kamo Mphela, Toss and Daliwonga all graced the stage to perform at what would be one of the most monumental events on the Johannesburg calendar. Not forgetting Khat, Playgal and Thabza Tee who all ushered the crowd into the night.
99 Design had a pop-up curated by fashion buyer and cultural curator Nhlanhla Buys. The store’s ethos is spotlighting the best and often underrated clothing brands in South Africa. They were accompanied by their long-term neighbour, Boys of Soweto. The presence of a well-rounded event offered people from many walks of life a glimpse into the untapped talent in the textile industry in South Africa. Not only that, Bantu Records alongside Women in Music South Africa were a great surprise to round off the overall experience.
The final event was the Satin Return Ball on the 18th of February where the stage was blessed with a runway show hosted by Lulubelle. That night was curated by the LGBTIQA+ platform, Le Grand Brand which aims to celebrate queer bodies through excellent performances and artistry. A couple of hours prior, the public had a masterclass from Kamo Mphela showing us how to get down in true Amapiano fashion.
Every true music lover was represented throughout the weekend, speaking to Ballatine’s motto which is, ‘A Friend to All Humankind,’ where there was space for every person to not only see themselves but safely enjoy good music while sipping on one of the finest scotch whiskies on the market today. Boiler Room and Ballantine’s True Music Studios succeeded, once again, in bringing together communities, artists and fans to relish in the rich melting pot of talent in South Africa.
