Think out of your bubble, think helping those less fortunate!

If you will be lonely for the first time this festive season, consider lending a helping hand. If you are in Johhanesburg Mix93.8fm (Midrand Community Radio Station) will host free testing centres and encourage dialogue between the Government, community and celebrities. Please watch this blog for more information leading up to 1 December 2010.

Your time is your greatest asset if you cannot do something for yourself everyday, then do something for someone in need. There are so many out there, just step out of your door to see that you can think out of the box while you are boxed in it.

The World Aids Day Awareness theme for South Africa in 2010 is

“We are Responsible.”

The Main focus for the 2010 World Aids Day in SA is the promotion of social dialogue to dispel myths about AIDS.

On the more fashionable side of HIV/AIDS (we live for fashion) have you heard of the Red Pump Project? Coming soon in South Africa!

More info comming up soon but for now listen to your favourite community station via audio on
www.93-8fm.co.za

Your Talent, Your Greatest Asset!

Be grateful for what you have this morning because you may just have a whole lot going on! The world’s greatest rescuers are in the process of freeing a team of Chilean miners. This is after being trapped for two whole months underground. The rescue began early this morning and we expect 33 celebrities to be born.

So embrace today like the Chilean miners, who know their lives will never be same again. If this is too far fetched for you, take Lui Wei as inspiration. This 23 year old, who lost both arms in a hide and seek tragedy at the tender age of 10 years, recently won the China’s Got Talent competition. He plays the piano with; yes you guessed it, his feet. Now that is a prime example of not underestimating what you have and over valuing what you do not have. Use your talents everyday!

South Africa making waves at the 39th Emmy Awards!

It is always a proud moment for us when our African sisters make waves overseas. From Nkhensani Nkosi of Stoned Cherry and her début at the New York Fashion Week and now Lerato Moloisane, the actress being nominated for top awards in the USA.

The SABC2 drama Hopeville and the South African actress Lerato Moloisane from the SABC1 drama Home Affairs, have been nominated for the International Emmy awards. Wow!

Lerato Moloisane played Katlego in the popular Home Affairs drama that's produced by Penguin Films. In my personal view Brenda who plays Vuyo on Home Affairs also deserves such international recognition. That is just my two cents.
So schedule November 22 for the 38th International Emmy Awards to be hosted in in New York. The Master of the Ceremony will be the former Beverly Hills, 90210 star Jason Priestley.

Picture cerdits: disneydreaming

Sex no-longer sells!

Half Indian and half African, Nicki Manaj is the latest Hip Hop trend. Men and women are equally obssesed over this larger than life entertainer. She is part of the ever growing young Money Production family. She prides herself of being a natural women, curves and all. Growing up Nicki thought she had to be like all the other celebrity rappers out there but now at age 26 she can comfortably say she is true to herself and her individual identity.

We love Nicki because she has consciously made an effort to not go all too sexual in the aim of promoting a different kind of image, to to inspire young girls otherwise. We love this Nicki because the age of 'sex sells' is slowly dying out; we want something more tangible now!

From Nicki's own words. "I made a conscious decision to try to tone down the sexiness, I want people—especially young girls—to know that in life, nothing is going to be based on sex appeal. You’ve got to have something else to go with that.

NOW ROGER THAT!

Picture credit: Bossip

Today is only 91 days to the end of the year!

On 1 October 1960 Nigeria signed its Declaration of Independence in the main boardroom of the Federal Palace Hotel. Meanwhile at the Frontier Hospital in dusty Queenstown, Qaliswa Tose liberated herself in labour, 23 years ago. Simply put in isiXhosa; Ukuzala, kuzolula!

It appears that birds of a feather flock together, this was evident when Cyprus and Tuvalo also declared their freedom from British Colonialists on this day. So please do not be surprised at all the joy the 1st day of October brings; after all it is the Christian Feast Day.

While in this jubilant mode on a pay day Friday, please treat the elderly with a bit more respect as they too celebrate the International Day of Older Persons. Equally so children in Singapore share Children's Day with World Vegetarian day!

This is a mouthful of celebrations to partake in, so opt for the most obvious reason to be happy today,its my happy birthday. Thank God for this!

Picture credit: www.justinshattuck.com

October is the Look and Feel Good month!

On Wednesday I interviewed the Managing Director of Biz Events on 93.8fm. Heidi Warracker is the brains behind the two year old Look and Feel Good Expo, to be held at the Coca Cola Dome, from 8 - 10 October. Goose bumps crawled under my skin when we spoke about the lineup. All I could hear was... a great experience, fun, games, learning and finding your zen. If this is what you are about listen up!



The Look & Feel Good expo is South Africa’s first, all-encompassing premium health, wellness and lifestyle event that will reflect the global move towards health, wellness, longevity, positivity, vitality, environmental awareness and sustainability. Check out all the activities online and plan your day well because all these activities can be a bit overwhelming for the average Joe.

http://www.lookandfeelgoodexpo.co.za/

So I will see you there feeling relaxed and looking disgusting (as Tyra Banks would put it)!

where were you when Wacko Jacko shocked the world

Today last year I left my workplace at exactly this time, I was retrenched and was leaving my workplace early as it was my last day. I tuned into YFM on my headphones and what could have made that day worse than hearing that the King of Pop music would never moonwalk live again. Today we celebrate and pay tribute to his contribution in changing the face of music videos forever. Things will never be the same thanks to Jackson, the man of changing faces.

Kelly rolling in Jozi

The latest scoop tells us that the former Destinies Child songstress, Kelly Rowland is in town. Here to compose the World Cup anthem, she is expected to work with local and African musos such as Slikour, Kwesta, Zuluboy, Crotale, Awadi, Samini, 2Face, Rola and Chameleon.

Lesley aka Da Les from the hip-hop outfit Jozi shared his excitement with me this morning. ‘Working with Kelly Rowland is a great honour. She is down to earth and passionate about her work. This is a great step for Jozi’s global standing and it is a turning point for South Africans this 2010.’ I also asked Da Les what songs they have prepared; he mentioned their popular Everywhere You Go remix and was ecstatic at the idea of sourcing the second song to feature Miss Kelly Rowland... GREAT BOOB JOB!
Picture credit: http://cdn.buzznet.com

Hollywood Legends Auction

Hollywood’s most celebrated star, Marilyn Monroe still has her personal artifacts on auction, 48 years after her mysterious death. The Planet Hollywood Resort will be hosting the Hollywood Legend’s Auction; where auctioneer Darren Juilien will offer some of Monroe’s weirdest possessions on the 26 and 27 June. Do not ask me where he found Marilyn’s psychiatric sofa or the chair she used for her final photo shoot known as The Last Sitting by Bert Stern. Other items up for grabs are her left over Chanel No. 5, bank statements, scripts and signed cheques. According to CBS News, the above black and white image on auction by Julien Auctions, is an original vintage photograph of Miss Monroe in Korea. A great collector’s item!

What to do this weekend

School holidays mean more time for children to get up to mischief and less money in our pockets. The only way out of this dilemma is to schedule the 1-10 April to affordable family entertainment at Joburg’s Easter Festival, The Rand Show in Nasrec.

Children up to the age of 6years can get in free and you won’t believe this; 16 year olds are classified as children. This is not the only recession proofing The Rand Show has in store for us this year – all entertainment is free except for the funfair and the rides.

This means my niece will enjoy herself without me having to restrict her on what she can and cannot participate in. What about me? I will be watching the World’s Strongest Men compete with objects that weight up to 400kg and I stand a chance to debut on ESPN as an audience.


Alternatively I can learn how to garden with the gorgeous Tanya Visser or get some cooking lesson from the SA Chef Association. The Boat Show and MTN Soccer Rig are more options and for a lekker laugh, I will clown up my face and catch the free circus.

With all this in mind – most of my energy will go into the adrenalin rushing, Suicide Ride. I tried the demo (slow) version yesterday and all I can is OMG! This rear-wheel drive Chevrolet SS drives at massive speed inside a dome, twisting and turning, stopping and starting. If I cannot convince you enough to take the Suicide Ride, check their Facebook page.

http://http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=96544770632&ref=search&sid=1418599240.6678660..1

For more info on the Rand Easter Show and picture credits– click here http://www.randshow.co.za/

Catch the Fever!

21st century diva Beyonce’ is on fire! Her first fragrance Heat from Coty Inc. is out and accompanied by a musical website. The bootyliscious bottom of the bottle has a red gradient effect creating the illusion of fire burning within. The cap is met by a gold band encrypted Beyonce’ and Heat. This fragrance gives me Fever, the 1950’s Peggy Lee remix by Beyonce’, which plays throughout your web visit http://www.beyonceparfums.com

Heat exudes top notes of Beyonce’s favourite ingredients, giving it a spicy floral scent. These include Red Vanilla Orchids, Neroli Orpur from the blossoms of the orange tree, Magnolia Delavayi and Blush Peach for a velvety touch.

Heat is enriched with middle notes that make up the heart of the fragrance. From Texas (Beyonce’s hometown) the Honeysuckle Nectar is teamed with sensual Almond Macaroon and the timeless Musk.

The base notes dominate Heat and are sure to leave you in a trancelike state all day. Ingredients such as Milkwood, the Tonka Bean and Amber give it that au natural feminine feel.

Okay; maybe I am just going on about this because I am a die hard fan? Either way, I have been waiting for this all my life and now that it’s at Macy’s; my friends coming for the World Cup better hook me up!

Pictures from:http://api.ning.com/ and http://jolienadine.com/

Build you personal brand today - its free!

Building a personal brand has never been easier than it is today. Take Mika Stefano who lives off social networking and being fabulous. You too can start to know and be known by the supposed who's who of the entire world. How?

Well for starters, create a blog or start commenting on various blogs, here you can share ideas information and learn from peoples comments and views of the world. Keep your Facebook, Twitter and you name it updates, yes up to date. People love to hear about each others successes and whereabouts! Remember that you are not employed by anyone but yourself. No organisation owns you and your managers will not ever stay for longer than you skills and abilities will. Finally think beyond your reality - people who build big brands are those who want to rise above their current occupations, circumstance and achievements.

Hope this helps, now watch as I build mine!

I'm in Maimi Beach! Dj Fresh

Dj Fresh, the Big Dawg is out in USA invading the New York and Miami space. MarieClairvoyant on www.maireclaire.co.za has all the info you need. Log on as we follow Fresh in and out of the Winter Music Aards and Miami Beach...first class pass, just for you!

A fashionable carnival!

I am landlocked all the way in Johannesburg right now! If I had just one wish... it would be to rock the Cape Town Carnival especially this year. The inauguration of this weekend will be marked by a brand new concept that all fashionistas will love! You guessed it; a fashion show. Brought to you by BP Express and CPT Carnival be sure not to miss this if you are in Cape Town. If you are a designer and would love to feature the contacts are below.

Tickets cost R120 per person. The show will take place at The Lookout, V&A Waterfront (on the roof of Aston Martin) 7.30pm on Thursday, 18 March.

For booking info, call +27 (0)21 405 4473 or email angie@capetowncarnival.com.
For more information, go to www.capetowncarnival.com

My Paris Fashion Week picks

Paris fashion week has come and gone at the beautiful Louvre Museum. My fashion yey is the Louis Vuitton A-line with the stunning yellow bag - look at that bag! My nay certainly has to be the foot long dress from Monsieur Jean Paul Gaultier's Autumn/Winter 2010/2011 collection. It looks a bit like I would trip and fall with every step.

Contesting the origins of the booty hop!

So i had a little mirror moment yesterday and starting performing my cultural "Xhosa" dance called umxentso. While booty hopping my way to the traditional songs in my head, I realised that no man - Beyonce never came up the booty hop. We have been booty hopping our way as amaqhiyazana (Xhosa girl dancers) in all kinds of ceremonies back in the Eastern Cape. The booty hop is derived from the Xhosa traditional dance - thank you for giving it an english title Queen B!

Destiny Fulfilled

Mentors are hard to find; people who you can trust and rely on for showing you the right direction through the crazy industry of business are limited. Desitny magazine offers a dream come true for young people who want to know how to propel in the corporate world. I will be watching my virtual mentor, Khanyi on the 10th of March from 1pm to 2pm on the destiny website. This is too cool!!! http://www.destinyconnect.com/default.aspx

SAMA Nominations

So I was at the stunning SAMA Nominations launch party at club Taboo in the prestigious Santon of Johannesburg. Here are the nominations. SABC 1 will showcase this event live on the 17 April 2010.

TOP 5

Album of the Year

Big Nuz for Undisputed
BLK JKS for the album After Robots
Busi Mhlongo for Amakholwa Believers
Selaelo Selota for Lapeng Laka
Teargas for Dark Or Blue

Duo or Group of the Year

AKING for Against All Odds
Big Nuz for the album Undisputed
Jaziel Brothers for The Journey
Joyous Celebration for Volume 13 Live At The Mosaiek Theatre, Johannesburg
Teargas for Dark Or Blue

Female Artist of the Year

Busi Mhlongo for Amakholwa Believers
Camagwini for Emandulo
Lira for Live In Concert: A Celebration
Louise Carver for The Home Tour – Live
Thandiswa Mazwai for Ibokwe

Male Artist of the Year

Benjamin Dube for 16 June Commemoration Live
Black Coffee for Home Brewed
Chris Chameleon for Kyk Hoe Lyk Ons Nou
Ntando for Inqubela
Selaelo Selota for Lapeng Laka

Newcomer of the Year

Culoe de Song for A Giant Leap
Kyle Shepherd for Fine ART
Solly Mahlangu for the album Obrigado
The South African Youth Choir for the album Birth of the Sun
Tshepo Mngoma for People And Places

MTN Record of the Year

Change the World – Master Jam (w/ RJ Benjamin)
Consider Me – Prime Circle
Fairytale - Liquideep
Fort Knox - Goldfish
Free - Thembi Seete
Good Music - DJ Cleo
Heartbreak Street – Jesse Clegg
I Believe – Oskido
Ingoma - Thandiswa featuring Hugh Masekela
Juju – Black Coffee featuring Zakes Bantwini
Lesson Number 1 – Rhythmic Elements
Live my Life – Winnie Khumalo
Maybe - Loyiso
Mmatswale- Malaika
Mpitse - HHP
Nka Mo Dira – Nutty Nys (w/ Abe Molamu)
Nomalanga Mntakwethu – Zuluboy
Push me to the Floor - The Parlotones
Umlilo - Big Nuz featuring Tira
We Baba - Culoe De Song featuring Busi Mhlongo

AFRIKAANS

Best Afrikaans Traditional Music Album

Die Teelepeltjies - Boeremusiek Op Sy Warmste
Hennie De Bruyn & Die Kitaarkerels - Vurige Snare
Klipwerf Orkes - Hantam Carnival
Mooiplaas Boere-Orkes - Traditionele Boeremusiek
Zak Van Niekerk, Hennie De Bruyn & Die Kitaarkerels - Rig Jou Hande Na Bo

Best Adult Contemporary Album: Afrikaans

Bok Van Blerk - Afrikanerhart
Chris Chameleon - Kyk Hoe Lyk Ons Nou
Die Radio Kalahari Orkes - Heuningland
Romanz - Bly Getrou
Theuns Jordaan - Kouevuur

Best Afrikaans Gospel Album

Jan Hoogendyk - Ontskemer
Louis Brittz, Wanda Bam & Leza Liversage - Ons Draai Terug!
Retief Burger - Luidkeels Oorgegee
Rouchelle Liedemann - Nuwe Begin
Wanda Bam - Beloofde Land

Best Kiddies Album: Afrikaans

Carike Keuzenkamp - Carike En Ghoempie Kuier Saam Met Ghoeghoe In Kinderland 6
Nedine Blom - Supercool Vir Jesus
Ronell Erasmus - Kareltjie Kameelperd
Vaaljappie - Kanedoebadoe



Best Country Music Album

Billy Forrest & Bobby Angel - The Hits Of Foster & Allen
Cheree - In My Drome
Die Campbells - Keep It Country
Dozi - Voel So Reg
Ray Dylan - Goeie Ou Country

Best Rock Album: Afrikaans

Andries Botha - Welkom In Die Wêreld
Jan Blohm - 7 Jaar
Teerpad - Kry Rigting
Zinkplaat - Mooi Besoedeling

Best Alternative Music Album: Afrikaans

Die Heuwels Fantasties - Die Heuwels Fantasties
Gizelle - Begin
Sonsteek - Ons Ideale
Straatligkinders - Sweef Soos N Vuishou
Willim Welsyn - Maanplaas

Best Pop Album: Afrikaans

Bobby Van Jaarsveld - Net Vir Jou
Dewald Louw - Ek En Jy
Lianie May - Boeremeisie
Nicholis Louw - Energie
Snotkop - Francois Henning Was Hier

Best Sokkie Dans Album

Die Campbells - Mamma Maria
Kurt Darren - Die Beste Medisyne
Ruan De Waal – ‘N Bietjie Nader
Willem Botha - Se My Nou
Zak Van Niekerk - Fototjie

Best Afrikaans DVD

Juanita Du Plessis - 10 Jaar Platinum Treffers Live
Louis Brittz & Jean Marais - Daniel 09
Nicholis Louw – Intiem Met Nicholis Louw
Retief Burger - Luidkeels Oorgegee
Thys Die Bosveldklong - Kom Lag ‘N Slag
GLOBAL CHARTS

Best Adult Contemporary Album: English

Blk Sonshine - Good Life
Dear Reader - Replace Why With Funny
Farryl Purkiss - Fruitbats & Crows
Laurie Levine - Living Room
Louise Carver - The Home Tour: Live

Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

Kevin Knott - Worthy
Proxy - The Call
Rivers Live - Love Never Fails
Scintillate - Sleeper
The Plain Truth - Only One God

Best Kiddies Album: English

Gcina Mhlophe - Songs And Stories Of Africa
Graeme Sacks & Erika Strydom - Goggatjie Childrens Songs CD
Relebogile Mabotja & Erika Strydom - Stories From The Alphabet Tree Volume 1

Best Rock Album: English

aKING - Against All Odds
Cassette - Who Do You Trust
New Holland - Exploded Views
The Parlotones - Stardust Galaxies
Voodoo Child - Attack. Don’t Panic

Best Alternative Music Album: English

BLK JKS - After Robots
Hog Hoggidy Hog - Method To The Madness
Martin Rocka And The Sickshop - Its A Filthy Song But Someones Got To Sing It
Mix N Blend - Look Mom No Hands
The Black Hotels - Films For The Next Century

Best Pop Album: English

Axene – 16
Jerusha – Jerushalem
La Vuvuzela – In Stereo
NKD – NKD
Sasha-Lee – Sasha-Lee


Best Global Chart DVD

Dozi & Nianell - It Takes Two - Live At The Silverstar Casino
Lira - Live In Concert: A Celebration
Prime Circle - All Or Nothing Live
The Plain Truth - Only One God

JAZZ AND CLASSICAL

Best Popular Classical Album

Daniel Rowland And Stellenbosch University Camerata - Vivaldi / Piazzolla Seasons
James Grace - Sevilla Music Of Spain II
Sterling Electric Quartet - Nova
The South African Youth Choir – Birth Of The Sun
TwoPianists - Brahms, Lutoslawski, Arensky & Copland

Best Instrumental Album

Carol Thorns - Fireflies In The Rain
CH2 - Orange Guitar
Guy Buttery - Fox Hill Lane
Kidofdoom - My Faith In War
Steve Newman – Flavour

Best Traditional Jazz Album

Anna Davel - Linger Longer
Brian Thusi - Nomakunjalo
Kyle Shepherd - FineART
Tutu Puoane - Quiet Now
Jazzing & Jiving – The Cape Town Sessions

Best Contemporary Jazz Album

Adam Glasser - Free At First
Fundile Mdingi - Borrowed Gift
Ivan Mazuze - Maganda
Tammy - Just Jazz
Tshepo Mngoma - People And Places





Best Jazz/Instrumental/Popular Classical DVD

Kristel Birkholtz - The Sea In Spring
Ses Snare - Ses Snare Live @ The Performer Theatre
Wouter Kellerman - Colour Live In Concert

TECHNICAL & VIDEO

Best Music Video of the Year

Nicky Campos for Juju by Black Coffee Ft Zakes Bantwini
Morgan Dingle for Who Do You Trust by Cassette
Nick Roux for Gotta Keep It Going by Jozi
Brandon Oelofse for Double Cross by Psyfo
Francis Gavin & Jolyon Ellis for Push Me To The Floor by The Parlotones

Best Producer

Theo Crous for Kyk Hoe Lyk Ons Nou by Chris Chameleon
Brian O’Shea for Fruitbats & Crows by Farryl Purkiss
HHP & Steve Raphadu for Dumela by HHP
Mix n Blend for Look Mom No Hands by Mix N Blend
James Bassingthwaighte & Jaydine Baron for Love That Music by Timothy Moloi

Best Engineer

Johan van Schalkwyk & Crighton Goodwill for Stripped Down Soul’d Out by Garth Taylor
Ishmael Morabe & DJ Swami for On The Edge by Ishmael
Marius Brouwer for On The Run by Jason Hartman
Howard Butcher for Flavour by Steve Newman
Robin Walsh for Love That Music by Timothy Moloi

Remix Of The Year

DJ Nutty Nys for K’zogo K’zogozogo (Summer Anthem) – Nutty Nys Remix by Deep Level
Protoculture for Cruising Through - Protoculture Mix by Goldfish
Black Coffee for This Is How It Goes - Black Coffee Remix by Goldfish
Bongani Fassie Partytime by Jozi
DJ Hypnosis for 2 By 2 by Rhythmic Elements





Best Album Packaging

Merwe Marchand le Roux for Against All Odds by aKING
Craig Wells for Who Do You Trust by Cassette
Heath Dyer for Live In Concert: A Celebration CD by Lira
Caroline Hillary for Ibokwe by Thandiswa Mazwai
Matt Edwards for Whole Worlds by Tumi

TRADITIONAL

Best South Sotho Music (SeSotho) Album

Koete - Tharisa Ea Matsoapo No.4
Letsoalo - Letabohile Letsoalo
Masweti - Masweti No.2 Re Kopa Khotso
Motsotuoa Mosenene - Lipabala Tsa Quthing No.4
Tau Ea Matsekha - Matsekha Grooves

Best Tsonga Music (XiTsonga) Album

Connie Chauke - Magevenga
George Maluleke - Siku Ramakumu
Hammy Chauke – Niwisisi
Mapfohlosela - Mr Hummer
Thomas Chauke - Shimatsatsa No 29

Best Venda Music (TshiVenda) Album

Ntshengedzeni Maligana – Mathada Vol. 2
Tshigomboza - Toduluso
Zozo & Sangere Superbeat - Mukovhe

Best Mbhaqanga Album

Abafana BakaMolo - Intombi Yegenge
Impumelelo - Isikweletu
Mthoko - Thambo Lami Leqolo
Oflende - Pajero
Umashwabana - Ithemba Lami

Best Maskandi Album

Izingane Zoma – Obama
Phuzekhemisi - Izindaba Zakho
Shabalala Rhythm - Isikweletu
Thokozani Langa - Inganekwane
Umgqumeni – I SMS
Best Traditional A Capella Album

African Cream Freedom Choir - Freedom Songs
King Star Brothers - Abanini Bemizi
Ladysmith Abafana Bezamanani - Ngane Yami
Thulani Shabalala Izimpande - Unity Is The Power
Usuthu - Halala 2010

Best Adult Contemporary Album: African

Bhudaza - Likhomo
Busi Mhlongo - Amakholwa Believers
Camagwini - Emandulo
Selaelo Selota - Lapeng Laka
Thandiswa Mazwai - Ibokwe

Best African Contemporary Gospel Album

Benjamin Dube - 16 June Commemoration Live
Jay - Worship Unlimited Vol. 1
Joyous Celebration - Vol. 13 Live At The Mosaiek Theatre, JHB
Solly Mahlangu - Obrigado
Spirit of Praise - Spirit Of Praise Vol 2

Best African Traditional Gospel Album

Hlengiwe Mhlaba - Hlala Kuye
Sechaba - Mangihamba Nawe
Sipho Makhabane - Ebenezer
Winnie Mashaba - Joang Kapa Joang
Worship House - Ikhaya Lami

Best Traditional African A Capella Gospel Album

Abalindi - Nguwe Nguwe
Amadodana Ase Postile - Ngihole Jehovah
Amadodana Ase Wesile - Jesu Wena Ungu Mhlobo
In Zion Of Julesburg Apostolic Faith Assembly In Zion - Se Ndzi Dyohile (Forgive Us Lord)
Thina Zion 1 - Phuthumani

Best Alternative Music Album: African

Candy - Siki (Five Cents)
Joe Nina - Unchained
KB - Ke Mosadi
Oliver Mtukudzi - Dairai
Best Traditional/African Adult Contemporary African DVD

Benjamin Dube - 16 June Commemoration Live
Joyous Celebration - Vol. 13 : Live At The Mosaiek Theatre, JHB
Solly Mahlangu - Obrigado
Spirit Of Praise – Spirit of Praise Vol 2
Worship House - Ikhaya Lami

URBAN

Best Urban Gospel Album

Bongi & Collin - Makadunyiswe
Charisma - My Journey
Keke - In The Holy Of Holies
Kgotso - In The Beginning
Neville D - Songs Of Deliverance

Best Pop Album: African

Deborah - Uthando
Jaziel Brothers - The Journey
Maduvha - Africa
Malaika - Mmatswale
Ntando - Inqubela

Best Urban Pop Album

DJ Sox - House Party
Jozi - Wild Life
Kwela Tebza - Made In South Africa
Mxo - Sounds In Motion
Urban Reign - When It Rains It Pours

Best Urban Dance Album

Black Coffee - Home Brewed
Culoe De Song - A Giant Leap
DJ Cleo – Es’khaleni 6
Liquideep - Oscillation
Oskido – Oskido’s Church Grooves 8 & 9th Commandment






Best R&B/Neo-Soul Album

Brian Temba - Something Better
Byron Clarke - Self Inflicted
Ishmael - On The Edge
Mario Ogle – Can’t Stop Loving You
Nash Reed - Mercurial

Best Rap Album

HHP - Dumela
JR - Colourfull
Khuli Chana - The MotswakOriginator
Teargas - Dark Or Blue
Tumi - Whole Worlds

Best Kwaito Album

Big Nuz - Undisputed
Mzambiya - Still I Rise
Spikiri - Taking A Walk On The Wild Side
TKZee - Coming Home
Zola - Impepho

Ladderd stocking - a fashion trend?

My head mistress in high school would certainly not find this latest fashion trend amusing. They call her the neo-grunge chic and she ladders her stockings and tights to create an out of this world look!

It is easy enough to ladder stockings without trying so this look will not be hard to achieve. You need to pull it off immaculately (as ironic as it sounds). Now please do not try wear your formal pencil skirt with two or three ladders - it just look like you have had an unfortunate day. Rather rock it up with a mini and some leather. This way you can be sure to look unconventional and as they say neo-grunge! I will try this at home!

SA Fashion Week has seen the light!

Three days,eleven shows, 33 designers and extra ordinary fashion! This is what you can expect at the SA Fashion Week next month and so much more. From the 25 - 27 March you can expect to have a two hour session with your local designers and retailers. Here you can scrutinise the garments and possibly strike bargains - who knows?

The schedule for the intimate sessions with the designers are as follows
Thursday 25 March 2010
16h00: Graffiti Installation by Mark Erasmus @ Clive Rundle
Shop 12, The Firs, Rosebank
The Forum Turbine Hall
19h00: Amanda Laird Cherry
20h00: Superella, Guillotine

Friday 26 March 2010
The Forum Turbine Hall
09h30 – 10h30: Non European, Bianca Warren, Dillon & Jada, Nabeela,Sober
10h30 – 13h00: Buyers & Media Networking Session
13h00 – 14h00: Lunch
14h00 – 15h00: Rubicon, Sies! Isabelle, Mantsho, Funeka By Tasleem Bulbilia
15h00 – 17h00: Buyers & Media Networking Session
19h00: Two, Chimera
20h00: Rjkay Creations, Gugulam
21h00: Loxion Kulca By Olé Ledimo

Saturday 27 March 2010
The Forum Turbine Hall
14h00 – 15h00: Terrence Bray, Tiaan Nagel, Colleen Eitzen, Soda
15h00 - 17h00: Buyers & Media Networking Session
19h00: Thunderstorm, DFC By Uyanda Mbuli, DMClassics,
20h00: Darkie
21h00: Sylvester Falata, Ephymol

Tuesday 2 March marks one hundred days to the Fifa 2010 World Cup hosted in our rainbow nation. As the host country South Africa automatically qualifies to compete amongst 31 other countries.

So the first match is between SA and Mexico. I will certainly watch this one from a fan park. To be on the safe side – I will wear my SA supporter’s shirt, which is costly by the way. I will dress this up with my Superga Flag Shoes, for that Italian vintage panache.

These colourful sneakers will blow you away, sneaker fan or not! The Jonas brothers have admitted to having a closet full of these, understandably so! The People’s Shoe of Italy has a legendary eighty years of great footwear. The new range of rubber soled Superga shoes is available online, it costs less than your pay check and you can pick a country of your choice! www.superga.co.za

Support your favourite country from head to toe in only 100 days from tomorrow. Remember to dress in anything yellow or green to be part of the patriotism. Ke nako!

Fashion you have to love!

When was the last time you dressed so well you stole the night!

The much anticipated moment has finally arrived. The new A/W '10 collection is in stores.

This season, the KHOSI NKOSI woman is inspired by the AFRICAN ICE QUEEN. The colours, fabrics and the intricate detail depict the story of this great woman.

For the Strong, Modern, African, Classy women, Winter is the time to shine and attract an ocean of respect.

Rih-rih aint faking no no!

Check out these smash hit glasses from CARRERA Vintage! CARRERA is a wellknown international sunglass and sports eyewear brand. They launched their latest range titled "Endurance" and have it featured in the Barbadian singing sensation, Rihanna's latest hit single Rude Boy. Alot is to be said about both but you must go onto YOUTUBE and see this colourful video! It is inspired by Rih-rih's hometown and full of fashion bay-bay!

heck out Alicia Keys in stylish Carrera... gotta love it!

State of the Nation Adress last week

The theme this of this year's first State of the Nation Address is "Celebrating the life of Mandela; contributing to Nation Building."

Check this blog for the Fashion extravaganza this occasion always turns out to be!

So the this is how it went down! Here to a call for the Minister of Fashion Affairs... I nominate myself LMFAO!

It is the budget speech this morning, more for us later!

Breaking News (expires 11/02/2010)

All my fashion bargain seekers; gues what I found? Stunning designer Khosi Nkosi has a SALE tomorrow; that is Thursday 11 Febbruary! Make your way over there honey - You can grab designer items at no more than R250... Two Hundred and what? True story!

Gentlemen nothing beats a desginer item for us girls(local is lekker), find something nice for her. Valentines is in only three days! Join the group on Facebook to learn more! Remeber this is for Thurday ONLY! http://www.facebook.com/people/Khosi-Nkosi/643530884

HYPE AWARDS... here we come!

What is upcomming, innovative and readable at Legit?

You guessed it! Legit is launching a quarterly magazine that will be distributed to 100 000 stylish shoppers. AS part of the EDCON group which houses great lifestyle chain stores such as Jet, Edgars and Boardmans to name a few; this is an exciting breakthrough. Ocean Ngobeni, Legit's brand manager is excited about tapping into the 16-24 year old market and believes that with great advertisers on board, Legit mag can reach and exceed the level of magazines such as Vogue in SA.

Readers can expect fashion forecasts, a fashion feature story, shopper pages, beauty, fashion director's choice, what celebs are wearing, and much more.”

More updates on this from your one and only African fashion blog... TransAfriqFashions

10 guidlines to looking fabulous in shoes

Come weight gain/loss, tan/pale, acne or cellulite; my shoes will always fit me and never let me down! The shoes you choose are as important as the way you rock them. They determine how you walk that walk!

10 Shoe guidelines for every shoe lover!
1. Comfort is priority - if you cannot walk in it, you look silly and if its small or too pointy (kick and mboboza)... mmm nasty corns!
2. Do not be scared of colour - if your outfit is too bright though, neutralise it with humbly coloured shoes.
3. Make a statement rock star - gone are the days when sneakers and a cocktail dress or gents suite were fo-fabulous! Make your shoes and style of dress a reflection of your personality! People will always analyse you from the top down...give them reason to.
4. Dress for the occasion - outdoors calls for flats or wedges. Research has it that women who rock too much heels in their 20s; are prone to suffer more foot/heel pain and arthritis later. So keep it real!
5. Maintain the balance - Keep sky high heels for longer hemlines (below knee). Pair your mini with an average heel, to balance out the form. Same goes for male heels.
6. Tailor your hems - flats need pants that fall directly on the ankle or just above. When too low you trample over them and risk looking sloppy. For longer leaner legs, make sure skirts and dresses fall just above the knee or higher.
7. Matching speaks volumes - when wearing a heavily layered outfit, match it with a thick sole. Wear your light dresses up with a thinner-healed shoe. Helps you look in proportion and effortlessly themed.
8. Do not compromise on quality... need I say more
9. Keep feet well pedicured and smelling fresh, you never know when you will have to take the shoes off!
10. Say thank you when complimented on your shoe and share the knowledge!


On that note, please make you vote on the poll above!

Spotting the Headdress trend!

Hats were only considered as a fashion item in the 18th Century. To this day, these head turning items serve the same purpose. Hats represent social, religious and political ranks. They serve as SPF and are darn right stylish.

Turn up your outfit by investing in a glamorous head gear - go all out and leave no room for more imagination! Hats are the new black honey!

If its not IT its COUNTERFIT!

You must have heard the news about the OR Thambo Customs Officials confiscation millions and millions of Rands worth of fake SA Soccer shirts? Expect more of this and be weary because as proud South Africans, we do not kiss crime!

I must say though the Bafana Bafana shirts are hella expensive! Who can afford one? I know I am waiting on a freebie to pass my way. To purchase a Bafana Bafana Players shirt with the symbolic national Protea on it, expect to cough out R1499. There are various other tops you can buy like the Bafana Bafana ladies World Cup shirt, retailing at R599, the supporters and alternate shirt at R499, Polo shirts and tees are also available below R400.

Considering that it will be winter during the WC, make a smart move and opt for the Bafana Bafana Hoody at R699. Or just take a holiday overseas and watch the games virtually... smart one!

BREAKING NEWS! Cosatu has called on all World Cup products to be manufactured in South Africa! This is after a Chinese company, contracted to produce WC t-shirts and Zakumi (SA Mascot) has been shun for its poor work floor conditions. With so many job losses, let us bring it home I say!

To purchase online: http://sasportswear.co.za/sa-soccer-shirts-3/
Above: Supporters shirt (without Protea) and Hoody

Nkhensani Nkosi... New York Fashion Week, in the same sentence?

Nkhensani Knosi has taken the South African flag all the way to New York Fashion Week! Tell them you heard it first on TransAfriqFashion! Stoned Cherrie has become a legendary brand in its own right. This top SA label has been invited, yes invited to be part of the NEW YORK Fashion Week from 13 - 20 February! Can you imagine how elated Nkhensani must be that her brainchild is to launch directly onto world stage?

This means hard work at the Stoned Cherrie house - keep yourself informed on this and more; simply by blogging on your first African Fashion Lifestyle site... watch Africa transform!

Three African designers will participate alongside Stoned Cherrie in This Day/Arise Magazine showcase. The likes of Nigerian designers MOMO and Tiffany Amber as well as Xuly Bet.

Cotton a scarce resource!

Since knowledge is infinite, we tend to get technical as fashion fundi's! As you know the global economic meltdown of 2008/2009 left a notable dent on the textile industry. Cotton mill use fell dramatically and this led to a drop in the use of cotton products.

You will be pleased to know that the use of the cotton mill (used to turn cotton into fabric)has increased by at least 2.8% since last season. This is great! You know what this means for us designers right? indeed it means that world cotton trade will increase and ultimately be easily accessible to people of all economic statures. For you this means that your cotton underwear, bedding and clothes will be much cheaper! Check your tags today and see how many have the 100% cotton label on them... you would be surprised - International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC)

Of course I had to share the JnB Met experience... in full colour! January 30 was a dose of beauty, fashion and it was fueled with horse power. I am not one for horse racing but my bets were confidently set on Pocket Power; cannot really elaborate!

Now on what I know damn well! The kaleidoscope of colours that filled the Kennilworth Race Course in the Mother City, are not to be forgotten. Jeannie D was just about the only one who did not seem to get the memo - she wore a morbid yet stunning vintage frock from her label launched in November of 09, titled 'www by Jeannie D'.

Former Boom Shaka group member, actress and presenter, Thembi Seete won the most glamorous couples award. She wore a blue, feathery, A-line, boob tube dress. All props have to go to a dear mentor of mine Gert Johan Coetzee. Gert is the brainchild behind Uyanda Mbuli's DFC Diamond Face Couture. Word on the street has it that the duo no longer work together. Between you and me Gert has a long way to go and he is super talented. Watch this space!

Our very own David Tlale with his Autumn/Winter 2010 collection. Now if you did not know - tell them you read it first on TransAfriqFashion...

This collection is inspired by the architecture at Circa Gallery in Rosebank, Johannesburg. The last weekend of January saw a showcase like no other. Tlale proves his exquisite taste and effortless artistic flair. It is only with designers like David Tlale, who can incorporate African art and the beauty of fabric; to create a piece that speaks volumes. We want to see more of you... please rise from the underground! If there never was, now is the time to Transform African Fashion into a Lifestyle! Photo's by Simon Deiner

Lady 'goo-goo' Gaga has left fashionistas drooling over her inspired look. From the 2009 MTV Awards, in a red 'Poker Face" mask, to this year's wired number... only she can pull it off!

So who would have predicted Gaga coming up with something like this? She leaves you wondering how she put it on, let alone how she managed to sit at the Grammy's earlier this morning or yesterday in CET.

Beyonce won six and Taylor Swift held four Grammy's, including album of the year. Gaga still had all the spotlight, or in this case wires...

Let us transform this fashion lifestyle Lady Gaga, we are obviously on the same page!