You can call Chris “Ludacris” Bridges a number of things.  Hip-hop superstar.  Actor.  Entrepreneur.  Philanthropist.  Restaurateur.  Pitchman.  Online visionary.  Columnist.  All of these labels are accurate, and with his forthcoming October 21st album release, Theater Of The Mind, the Grammy winning, Atlanta-based entertainment maven shows that, as he continues expanding his reach, his musical prowess remains as potent as ever.

“I wanted an album where you could listen to it from beginning to end and it would put you in an imaginative state,” Ludacris says of his sixth major label album.  “Ice Cube, Scarface, 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., they paved the way for me.  I feel like they’re some of the greatest of all time and they lyrically and conceptually put you in this place.  I want my fans to feel like they’re part of the music.  That’s what Theater Of The Mind is all about, drawing people in.”

Indeed, Theater Of The Mind highlights Ludacris’ rap supremacy, on a number of levels.  “I call myself the MVP of rap,” he says.  “When you put everything together in rap, as far as lyrics, visuals, record sales, personality, conceptual songs, I feel like I’m the summation of all.  I feel like there’s nothing I can’t do.”

Ludacris has good reason to feel that way.  His acting career remains on an enviable trajectory.  After star-making appearances on the NBC drama Law and Order SVU, the Oscar-winning Crash and the independent film sensation Hustle & Flow, Ludacris stands as one of the most in-demand actors in Hollywood.  

In October 2008, Ludacris will star in two major motion picture releases.  In Max Payne, based on the popular video game, he stars as an internal affairs agent alongside Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis and Beau Bridges.  Then, in Guy Ritchie’s Rocknrolla, Ludacris joins an ensemble cast with Gerard Butler and Thandie Newton for a captivating tale of the Russian mob setting up shop in London.

Even though many actors who break through as rappers first have a hard time securing plum roles in Hollywood, Ludacris has been able to avoid playing only a rapper.  “When I choose movie roles, I want to be versatile and not typecast,” he explains.  “I make a conscious effort to take on different roles.  I’m exploring and trying to reach new heights to continually challenge myself.”

That mentality extends to his other business pursuits.  With his DTP Records, which has a joint venture with Island Def Jam Records, Ludacris and partners Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon experienced gold success with R&B act Bobby Valentino.  Future DTP hit makers include R&B songstress Shareefa, rap group Playaz Circle and rapper Willy Northpole.

Ludacris has also partnered with Chef Chris Yeo to open Straits Restaurant, a Thai/Singaporean cuisine located in the heart of downtown Atlanta.  Straits has become a good place to network for Ludacris, as have Ludacris’ two online ventures.  WeMix.com is a social networking site aimed at showcasing and developing artists, while Myghetto.com serves as a myspace for the hood.

With Ludacris’ visibility in a variety of media at unprecedented levels, it’s no wonder major corporations enlist Ludacris as an endorser.  He has worked with Puma, XM Satellite Radio and Boost Mobile, and is the first rap act signed by communications giant AT&T to represent its brand.   

Given his phenomenal success, Ludacris is keenly aware that others are less fortunate.  That’s why his Ludacris Foundation is in its seventh year of operation.  Thus far, the non-profit organization has given more than $1 million to organizations that help out underprivileged children.  The Foundation helps kids to help themselves by using music and the arts to inspire them to develop goals and work to achieve them.  

The Ludacris Foundation’s mission was expanded when Ludacris recorded the hit song “Runaway Love” with Mary J. Blige and teamed with the Chicago-based National Runaway Switchboard to provide support for runaway children.  The Foundation has also spearheaded college tours where Ludacris spoke to students about safe sex and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Though Ludacris has more going on than most, he remains focused on delivering the highest quality product regardless of the business.  “I’m still passionate about everything that I do,” Ludacris says.  “It’s about doing what I love.  I’m living my dream and there’s no amount of money that you could get that’s going to make you stop living out your dream.”

So even as Ludacris becomes a bankable Hollywood star, a respected label head, a multi-faceted entrepreneur and a philanthropist, music remains his first love.  

“Music is still No. 1,” he says.  “Theater Of The Mind should showcase that.”

Music Producer and Hip Hop recording artist Dokte will release his "Maak Mekaa Sterk EP" for free to the public on 30 September 2008.

Dokte, who produced hip hop group Kallitz's award winning debut album 'Die Ding Ruk Mal' in 2004, as well as the second album 'Dukgesuip' in 2006, which featured the Cape Town anthem 'Kaapse Paatie' featuring Carla Diamond and 'Wat Gaan Ons Maak' featuring Steve Hofmeyr, has been relatively quiet recently.
He explains: "I've had to handle a few personal areas of my life, and have taken some time off from a lot of things – including music – to re-evaluate the way forward. I've had a lot of time to myself recently, and in so doing have arrived at a point where I know exactly what my plan of action is. I'm in a good creative space right now so I'm just busy rolling up my sleeves and getting ready to grind away."

He was recently featured on the SABC2 reality tv show ‘Jam Sandwich’ where he collaborated with Afrikaans rock artist Karen Zoid on what was undoubtedly a highlight of the tv series. The two have indicated that they would work together again.

Dokte, who regards himself first and foremost as a producer and second to that as a rap artist, has been working away at crafting his debut solo LP, entitled 'Die Kaapse Dokte', and in the process has worked and continues to work with a variety of artists on tracks. "I've put out some music on the net and the response was overwhelming, prompting me to release this 'Maak Mekaa Sterk EP' rather than make people wait until 2009 for the LP".

The title track, 'Maak Mekaa Sterk', is a call to all to work together to achieve as opposed to holding each other back for the short- term gain on the next individual. "It is common knowledge that when we work together with like-minded people, we all move forward and we do so faster, so to adapt this attitude not only allows for this, but also paves new avenues to more opportunities that would otherwise not present themselves", he explains. "I see how other cultures work together and I see those that don't, and I see the results. It needs to be communicated – it's too obvious."

Dokte has put together approximately 11-12 tracks for the EP, which some would even consider a full album. "I felt that 'Maak Mekaa Sterk' could stand on it's own conceptually, thus the decision to release it in an EP format. My album I've been working on has a different direction, so most tracks wouldn't fit in 100% anyway. It's a good thing too, as there hasn't been much released like this in the last few years, and there are people looking for this type of music, so I hope many people get their hands on it."

Dokte will launch a new website soon; in the meantime, fans can visit Dokte on Facebook for more information and join the fan-list to get notified on where to download the EP when it becomes available on 30 September 2008.

If you have ever wondered why hip hop is not taken seriously in South Africa then Sunday evening provided a world of answers.

MTN must have forked out bucket loads of cash all in the name of rap and yet Hype couldn’t even manage to find someone that could auto-cue properly, during the festivities at the Coca-Cola Dome.

Then there was the bad lighting. And the disordered presentation.

Butta Verses teams up with HipHopGame to bring you the free mixtape "Reality BV: Behind The Scenes" filled with 17 bangers! Download, burn and enjoy!

Tracklisting:
1. Hello
2. Do's and Don'ts
3. Jones In Ya Bones feat. Lucian
4. Around the World feat. Surreal
5. Money
6. Reasons feat. Filth
7. When I Say
8. Singing
9. Make Me Feel
10. If I Die feat. Lucian
11. Ducks In a Row
12. Drugs
13. Waste of Time freestyle
14. Love
15. Push Back
16. Here It Is
17. WWIV feat. Selfish

HTML MessageIn an era where any teenager with ProTools can compose an opus on his laptop, it is altogether rare to encounter a wholly live, sample-free, recording such as Raphael Saadiq's THE WAY I SEE IT (due September 16th on Columbia Records). Particularly one that is a fully realized oeuvre; from the opening snare shots of "Sure Hope You Mean It" through the last string strains of the piece de resistance "Sometimes," the artist takes us on a journey that is like a lush feature film, not a string of hackneyed trailers.

And his timing couldn't be better. While plenty of ink has been spilled lauding various upstart 'Queens of Retro-Soul' from across the pond, Saadiq has lovingly synthesized the essence of the various regional scenes that underpin our best music – Motown, Stax, Chi-town, Philly – and seamlessly spliced in surprising aesthetic choices (an industrial vocal filter here, a Spanish vocalist there) that clearly earmark THE WAY I SEE IT as, literally, state of the art.

First single "Love That Girl" lays it down with a club-ready update of classic Temptations-era swing – right down to the impeccable strings and Saadiq's clarion, falsetto vocals. In an album full of high points, "Never Give You Up" slays with its multi-generational line-up: the track includes Raphael's musical protégé C.J., as well as the legendary Stevie Wonder on harmonica. And the quick-paced shuffle of "Big Easy" finds Saadiq longing for a child lost in Hurricane Katrina with classic honky tonk flair replete with overlapping horn solos.

The album's inspiration was indeed global. "I was cooling out and surfing in Costa Rica and The Bahamas," recounts Saadiq, "and ran into people from all kinds of places. I noticed everybody was listening to classic soul music. When I came back home the music for this album flowed organically, naturally. Since I have my own studio, I was able to perfect it, take my time to make it right. I was able to live with it, day after day and that had a lot to do with how the album turned out."

Grammy-winning Joss Stone (with whom Raphael worked on the best-selling 2007 set INTRODUCING JOSS STONE) is a special guest on the song "Just One Kiss." Says Raphael, "The track reminds me of early '70s soul songs and getting Joss to sing on it wasn't hard because she has a profound appreciation for great classic music."

Saadiq's innate musical facility – he learned to play guitar, drums and bass by the age of six, was singing with a professional gospel group at nine and toured with Prince and Sheila E. upon graduating from high school – goes a long way in explaining his ability to craft an album that will delight baby boomers and groovesters alike. Saadiq, founder of hybrid super group Lucy Pearl, member and producer of Tony! Toni! Toné!, as well as acclaimed producer of artists like Joss Stone, D'Angelo, Mary J. Blige, The Roots, Snoop Dogg, and John Legend – is a virtual one-man show. He wrote, produced, arranged and performed the flawless grooves (drums, bass and guitar) and effervescent vocals on every song. And it is that combination of elements that will make THE WAY I SEE IT the go-to album for any setting. A worthy follow-up to his 2002 solo debut INSTANT VINTAGE – the first independent release to receive five Grammy nominations – THE WAY I SEE IT sets a welcome new standard.

HTML Message100 Yard Dash – full (WM, Streaming, 96k, Audio)
http://release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=jlT4xSjabKQCHHka2tO8yRTyOcVMka_G&UserName=Unknown

Staying In Love – full (WM, Streaming, 96k, Audio)
http://release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=Ar_qaw9zpGCraE_4u1_M1OK_ZdmFmJmi&UserName=Unknown

Big Easy – full (WM, Streaming, 96k, Audio)
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With each subsequent release, casual listeners and hip hop heads alike are learning more and more just why Orlando's most ferocious emcee has earned himself the title of MidaZ the BEAST. Continuing in the vein of his prior release,'Grandmasters Remix Lp', which paired the UJ Empire word warrior with an album's worth of DJ Muggs production, MidaZ's newest project finds him teamed up with another legendary hip hop producer.

"Ozone's Finest" features MidaZ rocking over beats by none other than hip hop's #1 Soul Brother, Pete Rock. "This album is me showcasing multiple styles," says MidaZ. "I tried to show with this project that my mic game is tight…no matter what the drums do. I chose Pete Rock as my adversary because I believe he's one of the greatest ever. I wanted to test my pen against greatness."

Featuring guest appearances by Roc C of Stones Throw fame, Sabac Red (NonPhixion), Beretta 9 (Killarmy), TzariZM, IMAKEMADBEATS, and more, "Ozone's Finest" showcases the continuing evolution of a rapper whose vivid wordplay and razor-like agility on the microphone has earned him the praise of Wu-Tang's Killarmy and Shyheim, Babygrande production duo Blue Sky Black Death, and anyone else who's been blessed to witness the kid spit – all over the trademark Pete Rock sound that most consider to be the pinnacle of hip hop production. While the claim as "Ozone's Finest" currently sits under his belt, it's only a matter of time before MidaZ expands his title to greater arenas.

Tracklisting:
1. Project Inauguration
2. Bark On 'Em
3. We Roll feat. Roc C & Beretta 9
4. 407 feat. Open Campaign
5. Answers
6. Bring Ya'll Rap feat. AmIAm & JKroaz (cuts by DJ Ynot)
7. Kevorkian
8. Avatar
9. What You Wanna Do feat. Norma Jay
10. Pistol Whip feat. Vis Major of The Heart & Brain
11. The Grime Life feat. NeMo & TzariZM of The Heart & Brain
12. GTA feat. Illustrate (cuts by DJ Dolo)
13. Science Equations feat. Sabac Red & Critical
14. I Know feat. Norma Jay
15. BEAST
16. IDE And The BEAST feat. IDE
17. Mind Of Mr. MidaZ
18. Gangsta

Pete Rock Vs MidaZ The BEAST "Answers" – Video

Free Download: Pete Rock Vs MidaZ The BEAST "Ozone's Finest"

For more info, check out: http://www.MidaZtheBEAST.com

Song structure in Hip-Hop is pretty straight forward, 3 verses and a hook over a hot beat is usually all that it takes. But what about if there was no hook? What if the song only had one verse? The "Mood Points" EP is Arsun's attempt at meshing the traditional with the abstract. From start to finish the projects main goal is to take you deeper into his world while still giving you something funky to listen to. With production from Mudd and DJ Ragz of Jazz Addixx, The Unknown, Dubby Waters, Frank Costa, FLO* and the mighty Fatman and Tropical. "Mood Points" showcases Arsun F!st's lyrical insight but more importantly establishes it's own identity in a time where getting ahead means sounding like everybody else.

Tracklisting:
1. Let Her Fly (prod. by The Unknown and Mudd)
2. Only 1 (prod. by Frank Costa)
3. Mood Point 1 (interlude)
4. Green Eyes (prod. by Mudd)
5. Lights Out (prod. by DJ Ragz)
6. Muddy Math (prod. by Mudd)
7. Mood Point 2 (interlude)
8. Old 2 Nu (prod. by FLO*)
9. Cupid's Delusion (prod. by DJ Ragz & Dubby Waters)
10. Moves-meant (prod. by Fatman & Tropical)
11. Mood Point 3 (interlude)
12. I Shot the Pale Horse (prod. by Mudd)

Free Download: Arsun F!st "Mood Points" EP

– Arsun F!st "Last Night" video
"Last Night" video directed by Arsun F!st and produced by Dubby Waters.

– New Arsun F!st feature with RapTalk.net now online!

For more info, please check out Arsun F!st on Myspace.com

The Hempstead, New York duo Hus Tha KingPin and SmooVth Dude who make up the hip hop crew Tha Connection come thru with their new release "Universal Dominance" that is now available for free download. The 12-track release includes production from Sci Fi, Max I Million, 12bit, DJ Kryptonite, Reeplay, AGQ, Elaquent, Darkitect, Vans Cal and Ialone. Tha Connection who made their debut last year in the Rawkus Records Digital 50 with their appearance on 12bits release "Stranded on Planet Rock" are on a non-stop grind. Since than, they gone on to release and appear on the "Cosmic Bounce" EP by SmooVth and Drums, the Hus The KingPin appearance on "Love Song" from Fella Vaughn's "Do My Thing" single (Melting Pot Music) and a few promotional EP's. Their hard work and consistency is now starting to show, recently they signed with Goontrax in Japan for their first retail release that will be in stores December of this year and to continue on they are now preparing another release with Domination Recordings.

Tracklisting:
1. Funktions (Prod. Sci Fi)
2. Supa feat. Prolifical (Prod. Max I Million)
3. Zen (Prod. 12bit)
4. Moon (Prod. DJ Kryptonite)
5. The Tunnel feat. Rozewood (Prod. Reeplay)
6. Sentido (Prod. AGQ)
7. Take It Higher Remix (Prod. Elaquent)
8. Oven Remix (Prod. Darkitect)
9. Red Carpet (Prod. DJ Kryptonite)
10. Hibernation (Prod. Vans Cal)
11. Venerable Leash Remix (Prod. Max I Million)
12. Six Feet (Prod. Ialone)

Free Download: Tha Connection "Universal Dominance"

For more info, please check out: Myspace.com/TheConnectionTeam

HTML MessageThe number two is powerful. Not only does it signify Nina Sky's tag teaming force on the R&B plateau, it also signifies the culmination of their sophomore release, "The Musical." Since their global recognition in 2004 with the reggae-infused pop jam, "Move Ya Body," the duo has spent four years challenging their voices and learning more about themselves in life and in business. "Just because we weren't in the spotlight doesn't mean we weren't making moves," Natalie explains. "These last four years were spent traveling, doing shows all over the world, writing and working with other artists. We've really had time to mature into women and master our craft. It shows lyrically and vocally on this album."

While four years have elapsed, "The Musical" aims to keep Nina Sky listeners in tune with the duo's journey since their first album. It takes just one listen to their new album–a savvy mix of R&B songs heavily influenced by hip-hop, classic rock and soul supported by intriguing, ethereal vocals–to understand why Polo Grounds/J Records signed the twin team. Besides arranging vocals, Nicole and Natalie penned each track on the album, at times testing their work of art on eager audiences before it was officially ready.

As Nicole and Natalie ready for a fresh beginning, their musical abilities have never once failed to resonate with audiences. "We aren't only singers; we write all of our music," Natalie reveals. "Nicole plays guitar and deejays. We are very musical and try to show this while on stage. Our vibe isn't like your typical group! Because Nicole deejays, she's able to command the crowd and every once and a while, we'll bring the guitar out on stage to show our versatility." As a teen, Nicole mastered the turntables but relied on her guitar playing skills to support the lyrics she and Natalie wrote. Fast forward years later and the duo's songwriting capabilities are displayed in catchy uptempo songs with hip-hop flair to poignant ballads.

In 2007, Nina Sky officially began working on "The Musical." Noted producers on the album include Krucial Keys , Ryan Leslie, Cipha Sounds, Solitair, Cool & Dre, Salaam Remi, Supa Dups, Neo da Matrix, The Runners, Big Bert & EST and more. "We're so excited about the music we've recorded for this album. We've grown so much in the last few years and experienced love, heartbreak, fun times, sad times, and everything in between. The content on 'The Musical' is really reflective of our personal experiences," says Nicole. "We're giving our fans a glimpse into our lives as Nicole and Natalie. Also, the production on this album is extremely tight. We worked with some of the most talented writers and producers in the industry. The album is a pop, R&B album with a hip-hop base. It's very true to who we are and is finely crafted. We can't wait to release it!"

"The Musical" places Nina Sky on a new path, but their ride to recognition began before its creation in Astoria, Queens, where Puerto Rican twins Nicole and Natalie Albino grew up amongst salsa beats and freestyle anthems. The most prolific musical force the duo recalls came from that of their stepfather–a self-taught DJ who created a home enveloped in the sounds of Miles Davis, Madonna and Journey, among others. " We grew up in a household where music was always played. Our dad deejayed from sunrise to sunset. It's because of him that we learned to appreciate all genres of music and have always been open to experimenting with different sounds and vibes," says Nicole.

Nina Sky's ascent is the result of one prolific figure. MTV VJ, HOT 97 jock and producer DJ Cipha Sounds met the two at 17 and immediately recognized their gift. "When we auditioned for Cipha, we didn't know what to expect. But he embraced our performance and soon after, asked us to hit the studio with him," Natalie reflects. "At our first session he played us the Coolie dance riddim and, within 30 minutes of hearing it and vibing out, we'd written "Move Ya Body," continues Nicole. "We had no idea what would come of it but he kept saying the song was gonna be big. Same way he believed in us, we believed in him, and the song took off!." Cipha, alongside Jack Move Inc. co-owner Jamal Landlord, assisted the duo in signing with Eddie O'Loughlin and Next Plateau Entertainment/Universal Records. "Move Ya Body," off their self-titled first release, made Nina Sky a household name in 2004.

The "Nina Sky" album hit the industry with a brand of R&B that was unprecedented, coming from two Puerto Rican twin sisters from Queens. That same year, rapper N.O.R.E. called on Nina Sky for vocal assistance on "Oye Mi Canto," featuring Daddy Yankee, which became the first reggaeton record to hit mainstream radio and showcased the ladies bilingual talents. The duo was featured on The Alchemist's ode, "Hold You Down," featuring Prodigy of Mobb Deep and Illa Ghee, and on renowned DJ Tony Touch on "(Hey DJ) Play That Song." They also released two independent mixtapes, "Nina Sky The Mixtape" and the Latin-influenced "La Conexion", which produced the anthem, "Ladies Night," featuring Ivy Queen and Pitbull. Last year, Nicole and Natalie were featured DJ Envy & Brooklyn emcee Red Café's "Things You Do," yet again with The Alchemist on "Key To The City" and Talib Kweli's "Hostile Gospel" alongside Joell Ortiz and Blu.

At 22, Nina Sky give credit to Jack Move Inc. and Polo Grounds Music President Bryan Leach for musically supporting them through tumultuous times with their former record label. "When we were signed to Universal [Records], we always felt disconnected. They didn't understand us as a group and didn't give us the proper attention a label should give any artist they are trying to propel to success," Natalie admits. "After our last situation ended, we knew it was important to sign with someone who believed in us, our movement, and our music. From the beginning, Bryan Leach got it. It was as if he was a part of our team even prior to signing to his label!."

Now, with The Musical (executive produced by Nina Sky, Jack Move Inc., and Bryan Leach) complete, Nina Sky welcomes tastemakers and fans to rejoice in their return. Their new single, "Curtain Call featuring Rick Ross," and new label, Polo Grounds Music/J Records, is as close to a musical rebirth as the duo can get. An elaborate work of art, "The Musical" showcases the growth and versatility that is Nina Sky.

HTML MessageNina Sky – "Curtain Call" (feat. Rick Ross)

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In preparation of Butta Verses new video for his single "If I Die featuring Lucian" that will be debuting in the next few weeks, we now have available the "Reality BV" Deleted Scenes! The Deleted Scenes features videos from Butta Verses that were only discovered by his die hard fans that search him out on youtube. These videos were not ever released but they still managed to find their way online. We would now like to present these songs and videos to the world. These tracks are from Brand Spankin which was Executive Produced by Maseo of De La Soul. The album was never released as intended but was later made available on iTunes.

The videos are "Round and Round" featuring Choklate and "Work" both tracks were produced by Seattle based producer Bean One. Please feel free to post them up and share them!!!

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and

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North Carolina based emcee, Supastition, returns with the CD release of "Leave of Absence" on Reform School Music / Domination Recordings. Supastition who released the fan-favorite "The Deadline" EP in 2005 and the critically acclaimed "Chain Letters" in 2006, which featured Little Brother and production from Illmind, Jake One and M-Phazes made massive noise worldwide. Supastition has received praise in magazines such as XXL (Chairman's Choice), The Source (Independent's Day) and Scratch (4/5 rating) in addition to headlining tours in over a dozen countries. This limited edition CD version of "Leave of Absence" features the underground favorites "Worst Enemy" & "Word Has It" plus the smash new M-Phazes produced single "Wrong". Guest appearances include Torae, Kil Ripkin, Dan Johns and Finale plus production from Illmind, Marco Polo, Khrysis, D.R., Eric G and Johnny Madwreck.

Free Download: Supastition "Leave of Absence" Album Sampler

Organisers report a growing interest in the upcoming conference and exhibition which will once again see industry professionals from across South Africa, Africa and the international music business meet in Newtown, Johannesburg to network, exchange ideas and opinions, showcase their goods and services and much more.

Already Moshito ’08 – as this year’s event is known – will introduce an exciting new element in the form of a partnership with WOMEX, globally recognised as the premiere World Music Expo on the global music calendar and this year taking place in Sevilla, Spain at the end of October.

“WOMEX will be developing key sessions with us,” reports Moshito chairman, Arnold Mabunda, “and we are very excited about what this highly regarded and very experienced project will bring to Moshito.”

Commented WOMEX General Director, Gerald Seligman "We've visited the last two editions of Moshito and were so enthusiastic about what was taking place at this dynamic conference. It's a focused, well-structured event dedicated to developing skills, supporting national cultures, opening up the international marketplace and, in general, to providing a platform to discuss this challenging moment in the industry. We're honoured to be working with Moshito and feel privileged to be collaborating in the home of one of the world's richest musical cultures."

WOMEX will be co-developing sessions on the Digital and International Environments with Moshito – and this is just one of the many exciting working relationships that Moshito ’08 will boast.

Already the project has a new partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Government, Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation. The Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition also enjoys the ongoing support of the City of Joburg and the Department of Arts and Culture nationally.

Moshito ’08 takes place from Wednesday September 10th to Saturday September 13th and is once again built around the participation of registered delegates and the public.

Delegates will have access to the full spread of activities at this year’s event, which includes plenary sessions featuring keynote speeches, breakaway sessions which allow for more focus on the issues being discussed and the hugely popular “Hot Seats” where controversial – but important – topics affecting the South African music industry are put in the spotlight.

The public will be able to attend open information sessions and master classes on Friday September 12th and Saturday September 13th as well as the many fringe events (featuring live performances) that will take place in the Newtown Precinct during Moshito ’08. The exhibition – expected to be much bigger than 2007’s already substantial one – will be open to delegates throughout Moshito ’08 and the public on the two key public days.

Taking place at Museum Africa in Johannesburg’s Newtown Precinct from September 10th to 13th, Moshito ’08’s aim is to broaden the business intelligence of music industry professionals, strengthen business networks for participants and inform delegates, traders and the public about the multifaceted and dynamic nature of what is truly a global cultural industry.

Once again, Moshito’s Conference element will be themed – this year topics include technology, new markets, live music, social development and piracy and these will be spotlighted, debated and unbundled in plenary, breakaway and hot seat sessions. The digital aspect of the global music business will form a key element of Moshito ’08.

Says Mabunda: “We feel extremely proud to be in our fifth year and can look back at the development from Moshito’s inception with a real sense of pride. There have been challenges along the way but we are always pushing our benchmark out and this year are confident of offering a range of presentations, discussions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities that you will not find anywhere else on the African continent.”

Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition

10 Henry Nxumalo Street, Newtown, Joburg

www.moshito.co.za