SA centre stage at MIDEM

A line-up of award-winning, chart-topping and iconic South African artists will include the Parlotones, Lira, ZuluBoy, Thandiswa Mazwai, Nothembi, Vusi Mahlasela, Wouter Kellerman, Tidal Waves, Kurt Darren and the Maletangwao Cultural Troupe. They will be joined by Benin's Angelique Kidjo, who is widely considered one of Africa's most recognizable and gifted artists and who will add her unique flavour to collaboration with Mahlasela among others.

“As a musician, one rarely has the opportunity to be part of two major global focus points in one year. Our country is honoured both culturally and sportingly in 2010. This is possibly the most important year for Africa in the history of the modern world, my intentions are to soar on this world stage,” says Lira.

“We are very excited about the line-up which is a fantastic representation of South African music talent as well as the dynamic SA music delegation to France,” adds Department of Arts and Culture's Glenn Masokoane - director: Cultural Development. “We want to showcase the diversity of music that is created in our amazingly rich country and we believe that the artists who have been chosen to represent South Africa will do it admirably and with great effect.”

Parlotones are back

Raphael Domalik, the Parlotones manager and CEO of Joburg-based indie, Sovereign Entertainment, support this. “The Parlotones are very excited to return to MIDEM in 2010,” says Domalik. “We were at MIDEM in 2009 and now we are returning to officially represent South Africa in 2010. It's great to be part of this incredible opportunity to profile South Africa to the rest of the global music world.”

The Parlotones have already secured live dates and releases in Europe since 2009, underscoring their appeal to a global music market and the importance of being at MIDEM.

Programme

The opening night on January 24 features a main stage and an acoustic stage at the Martinez Hotel, traditionally one of the hottest spots at any MIDEM and open to all delegates. A backing band overseen by Themba Mkhize will support the artists.

Mkhize will also take on the role of music director at the planned VIP dinner on January 25 at the Carlton Hotel. The theme of the event is ‘Tribute to Miriam Makeba' and the award-winning pianist, composer, producer and music director is planning a world first special to honour the late icon. The line-up of live artists is further boosted by the inclusion of DJs Black Coffee, Christos and Static Plastic who will be spinning 100% home-grown music at the various events.

South African participation

The South African delegation is made up of industry bodies, government officials, artists, practitioners, industry specialists, record companies and music industry interest groups. Proudly South African cuisine, food, crafts, design, décor, fashion, music made by South Africans in all disciplines will be showcased during the event.

For more on MIDEM go to www.midem.com.