Why not brand our local music?

Music is food for the soul, irrespective of the genre, it is capable and equipped to move your being and teleport you into space.

In most cases, what transpires in that space is for your inner self and memory only for those who are around you to ask, "Where have you been?" as they witness you being scooped away on an emotional journey and to return not being the same person you were when you left.

Conscious decision

I found myself going to the mall and i even made a few to check if the records that i want were in stock, I was looking for two records in particular: Zonke's Ina Ethe and Afrotraction's Soul fully yours. Due to its popularity, Zonke's album was out of stock at all the music bar outlets, except at one unexpected branch where, thankfully I found a copy.

@Zonkemusic's record is one of those few records, once in a while that really arrests you in the music. You find yourself mesmerised as the composition and the arrangement of the tracks resonate with you. It is as if you were in studio when Zonke was recording the music ans effortlessly garnished it with her melodic voice.

What came out was utter magic, complete passion. Now, it would really be a disservice and lack of appreciation if this record from Zonke would go up in smoke due to you purchasing a pirated copy, would it not?

Ripple Effect

Yes, you would purchase copies at Bree Street and on the side of the road. We all know of someone who still does this. Think of the ripple effect it would have if all of us were to go legit and purchase our favourite artist's records from legitimate sources.

Now you might be thinking, "WTF?"

Well, "What The Funk" is that? All of us as South Africans, who should be purveyors of our local talent, products and skills, are the same ones who are hampering the growth of our local industries.
The local music scene especially the artists, has in the last decade or so, really worked hard to raise the bar. The quality of the productions and the content is truly one to be in awe of.

Worthy of our support ?

Think of any artist- PROs (both kid and verb), Lira, The Parlotones, HHP, Flash Republic and our very own international trio- Die Antwoord + DJ Hi Tek. All these artists ooze with talent and are worthy of our support.

Two years ago, a campaign with very good intentions and mandate was launched- the SHOUT SA campaign. This is a campaign against crime and anything else associated with bringing our country and society's good name into disrepute.

Question is are we as South Africans working hard at stopping crime as well as the making and selling of pirated copies? Has the SHOUT Campaign spread the message well enough?