How DJ Bob wants to use his Swiss gig to create opportunities for young SA artists

The Vision Behind Jazzwerkstatt

Jazzwerkstatt is a music festival that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Switzerland and its connection to South Africa. The festival features a diverse lineup of local and international artists, showcasing a wide range of genres, from jazz to electronic music. DJ Bob’s involvement with the festival is not just about performing; it’s about giving back to the community and fostering a new generation of artists.

The Role of DJ Bob

DJ Bob’s role in Jazzwerkstatt is multifaceted.

The Origins of Jazzwerkstatt

Jazzwerkstatt was founded in 2014 by a group of musicians and music enthusiasts in Switzerland. The festival has since become a prominent platform for musicians to showcase their talents, network with peers, and gain exposure to new audiences. The organizers of Jazzwerkstatt aim to create a unique and engaging experience for both the performers and the attendees.

The Mission of Jazzwerkstatt

The primary objective of Jazzwerkstatt is to provide a platform for musicians to share their music and connect with others in the industry. The festival also aims to promote sustainable practices in the music industry, particularly in the context of live music venues and festivals. This includes exploring innovative ways to reduce waste, increase energy efficiency, and promote environmentally friendly policies.

Key Objectives of Jazzwerkstatt

To provide a platform for musicians to showcase their talents and connect with peers

To promote sustainable practices in the music industry

To increase awareness about the environmental impact of live music venues and festivals

To foster a sense of community among musicians and music enthusiasts

The Journey to South Africa

In 2019, Jazzwerkstatt embarked on a journey to South Africa to examine the sustainability of live music venues and festivals in the country.

The Roots of Bob’s Passion for Music

Bob’s journey into the world of music began at a young age. Growing up in South Africa, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres, from traditional African music to Western rock and pop. His parents, both music lovers, encouraged his curiosity and nurtured his passion for music. As a child, Bob would often spend hours listening to records and watching music videos, developing a deep appreciation for the art form. Some of his favorite artists from that era include The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell.

The Evolution of Bob’s Career

As Bob grew older, his interest in music only deepened. He began to explore the local music scene, attending concerts and festivals, and eventually, he started performing himself. In the 1990s, he landed a job as a DJ at the popular live music venue 206 in Johannesburg. This marked the beginning of his career as a professional musician. During his time at 206, Bob had the opportunity to work with a variety of artists, from local musicians to international acts.

The Significance of OppiKoppi

In the 1990s, Bob began performing at the OppiKoppi festival, which has since become one of the most iconic music festivals in South Africa. OppiKoppi is known for its eclectic lineup, featuring a mix of local and international artists. Bob’s involvement with the festival has been a defining aspect of his career, allowing him to connect with a wide range of audiences and showcase his musical talents.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the music industry, with many venues and events being cancelled or postponed indefinitely. The live music scene has been particularly hard hit, with many artists struggling to make ends meet.

The Impact of the Pandemic on the Live Music Scene

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the live music scene in the country. The sudden and unexpected nature of the pandemic has left many venues and events scrambling to adapt to the new reality. The pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of numerous concerts, festivals, and other live music events. Many artists have been forced to postpone or cancel their tours, leading to significant financial losses. The pandemic has also had a devastating impact on the music industry as a whole, with many small businesses and independent venues struggling to stay afloat.

The Human Cost of the Pandemic on the Live Music Scene

The pandemic has had a significant human cost on the live music scene.

The Rise of Tuesday Funk Jam

Tuesday Funk Jam has been a beacon of hope for the underground music scene in Joburg. Founded by Siyabonga Mthembu, the session has been running for over a decade, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. The session has gained popularity over the years, attracting a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts. Key features of Tuesday Funk Jam include:

A relaxed atmosphere, allowing artists to experiment and push boundaries
A focus on local talent, promoting the growth of the underground music scene
A platform for collaboration and networking among artists

The Benefits of Tuesday Funk Jam

Tuesday Funk Jam offers numerous benefits to the local music scene. Some of the key advantages include:

Community Building: The session provides a space for artists to connect with each other, share ideas, and learn from one another. Creative Freedom: The relaxed atmosphere allows artists to experiment and push the boundaries of their music, leading to innovative and unique sounds. Networking Opportunities: The session provides a platform for artists to connect with other musicians, promoters, and industry professionals, potentially leading to new collaborations and opportunities.

The Concept of Black Labone

Black Labone is a weekly platform that brings together artists, musicians, and creatives to showcase their work. The concept is simple yet powerful: to provide a space for people to express themselves, share their talents, and connect with others who share similar passions. The platform is not just about entertainment; it’s about community building and fostering a sense of belonging among creatives.

The Benefits of Black Labone

Provides a platform for emerging artists to gain exposure and build their audience

Offers a space for creatives to network and collaborate with others

Fosters a sense of community and belonging among artists and musicians

Encourages creativity and self-expression

The Experience of Black Labone

Attending a Black Labone event is an immersive experience that combines music, art, and conversation. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, with a diverse range of creatives showcasing their work.

These festivals are more focused on established artists and their fanbase. The lack of opportunities for young bands to gain exposure and build a following is a significant issue in the music industry.

The Challenges of Breaking into the Music Scene

The music industry is notoriously competitive, and for young bands, the challenges of breaking into the scene can be overwhelming. One of the primary concerns is finding a platform to showcase their music and gain exposure. The lack of opportunities for young bands to perform at festivals and gigs is a significant issue.

The Problem with Big-Scale Festivals

Big-scale festivals such as the Joy of Jazz and Delicious Festival are often dominated by established artists and their fanbase. These festivals do not provide a platform for young bands to gain exposure and build a following. The focus on established artists can make it difficult for young bands to get noticed. ## The Impact on Young Bands*

The Impact on Young Bands

The lack of opportunities for young bands to perform at festivals and gigs can have a significant impact on their careers.

I will interview musicians from various genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and classical music. I will also be hosting a live panel discussion with visiting musicians, where we will discuss topics such as creativity, inspiration, and the music industry. I will be playing DJ sets at the festival, featuring a mix of local and international artists. I will also be hosting a live podcast recording, where I will be interviewing musicians and discussing music-related topics. I will be performing at the festival, playing a mix of my own music and covers of popular songs.