south african music bands

South African musicians have been making a big noise in the local and international market and when you visit South Africa, you have to see a few live acts.

Homegrown South African music has been experiencing a blooming growth period in the past ten years. Local bands have been able to make a living and name for themselves locally and internationally.

Some of the most successful bands to make it big both locally and internationally have been TWEAK, Just Ginger (Jinger), Fuzigish and Ladysmith Black Mambazo (double Grammy award winners).

Newer bands include Prime Circle, FeverTree, 16Stitch, Parlotones (SAMA Award winners), Coda and Evolver. Keep an eye out for their CDs as you don't want to miss the melodies that they make.

There are a few music festivals throughout the year where you can catch a few the bands. These festivals include:

• Oppikoppie
• Woodstock
• Splashy Fen
• Coca Cola Co Lab

Most of these festivals stretch over a 3 to 5 day period and on top it off, 12 hours a day (minimum) with live music action! If you are really lucky (or) and persistent you can meet up with band members and have your CDs autographed. Most of the bands stick around for a day or two to hang with their loyal supporters.

Accommodation at a music festival weekend is quite an adventure as you have to camp in open areas with hundreds of other people, and sharing portable ablution amenities. You may also find self-catering or B and B guesthouses that are close to these festivals, but you will have to book well in advance.

Alternatively, if you don't feel for a weekend in the dust, look out for the gig guide of the city you are visiting, you might just be lucky and catch some live acts at a restaurant or pub.

So, rock on with SA Rock music!