Buckle up, Neighbours! We are thrilled to let the cat out the bag and announce our latest addition to the HEY NEIGHBOUR festival line-up. He’s a global hip-hop sensation, a 17-time Grammy winner, and a lyrical genius – Yes, it’s Kendrick Lamar, and he’ll be hitting our stage to bring the house down!
We had promised you more beats and surprises, and we believe adding this powerhouse artist who’s known for his thought-provoking lyrics and groundbreaking music, cranks up your anticipation a notch or two. Lamar joins the dynamic line-up alongside Swedish House Mafia, H.E.R., Khalid, and The Chainsmokers, each set to deliver a mind-blowing performance at one of Africa’s most eagerly anticipated music festivals.
Now, with Lamar confirmed as the Day Two headline act and the completion of our Phase One lineup, it’s time to assemble your festival squad, plan your epic outfits, and figure out your travel. Don’t fret, though; we’ve got your back with various ticket options, accommodation offerings, and travel arrangements. All you need to do is bring your vibe and your friends for a memorable festival experience!
But hey, we’re just getting started. Stay tuned for the next wave of announcements of local artists, DJs, and maybe even more international acts in the upcoming phases.
Phase 1 Weekend Passes start at R3,899 for General Access and R4,999 for the VIP experience. The limited phase 1 Single Day passes are almost sold out so grab your tickets now! Phase 2 pricing to be announced soon.
Stay connected with our neighbourhood! For all the latest updates and news, check out our official website and social media platforms:
Bonginkosi ‘Bonko’ Khoza / Actor & Voice-Over Artist
What sparked the love for acting?
I have always been into acting, since primary school I loved plays but never took it seriously. I went to art school and studied graphic design, I dreamt of being an overall visual artist. After 2 years of trying that, I dropped out to figure out my life. I asked myself if I was doing things because the status quo says so or if I was going to focus on what brings me joy. I decided that I wanted to do something I enjoy and would do for the rest of my life. So I took the decision to study Drama at The Market Theatre Laboratory.
You play ‘Mqhele’ on Showmax’s ‘The Wife’, how would you describe the character?
He is a complex character that is heavily bothered by demons in his head. He has unresolved childhood traumas that cause him to act and react in a certain way. Other than that, he is a sweet guy.
You are an extremely talented actor. How do you prepare yourself for a role?
My preparation starts at the audition level. I’ll read my script and research the character biography. I get to know the character and start looking at costumes and play scenes out. If I get the role, it’s a progression of building the character.
What would you change about the South African entertainment industry?
The industry doesn’t exist on its own, it doesn’t function without the audience. If anything, I would like to change the audience. I wish South Africa would open up access to more global content because it is part of a global market. The audience can then push the industry towards something different. The audience needs to start playing with their appetite and choosing different types of content.
That one moment in your career so far that you’ll never forget?
I spent a day with Benedict Cumberbatch in 2020. We did a scene together on a film called The Mauritanian. My scene was initially for his character. The casting director told me to keep pushing and keep my head up because it may be overwhelming. We did the scene in Cape Town and it dawned on me in that moment that he was just a colleague and I had to get it together. From that moment, we started talking and getting to know each other. That was a special time.
Is there anyone that you call your role model/inspiration?
Mahershala Ali, I love the way he handles his career and brand. He keeps it very much acting-centric even if he does work for brands. He has won two Oscars and I’m pretty sure when he’s not acting he’s probably spending time with his family and relaxing.
What is the importance of following your passion?
Life has a price to pay, you’re not here for free. The system will try and put you in a place where you are most comfortable. When you’re most comfortable, you’ve got nothing to complain about. But things like passion come from the inside, it is who you are, it’s an expression of your true self. Retrospection and bravery are important where passion is involved.
’13 Weeks To Find Mr Right’ is your upcoming project, are you working on other things at the moment?
I have already wrapped 13 Weeks To Find Mr Right. I have now started working on a Disney animation, I’m also shooting a Hollywood film and in talks with various directors but I can’t say much about that right now. Actively working on The Wife and voice overs.
Any advice for aspiring actors?
Study first, treat the art with respect and it will pay you back with longevity and substance. Put in the work and the time. Believe in your dreams, trust in God and don’t forget to pray.
YoungstaCPT: The pandemic really shifted things for artists and humanity alike. I think for artists specifically, we were spoiled. We were protected and sheltered, our lifestyles were funded by shows, tours and other endeavours. When all of that came to an end, we had to scramble for an alternative. Luckily I had a shop, we were still selling merchandise, sneakers and everything else. Once the pandemic hit, it did make things a bit slower for us. I only got the shop in 2019 so I traded for nine months without Covid, and two years with Covid! It taught me lot, especially in terms of being a business man. I realized my dreams are still valuable, but I have to be more aggressive in actioning them, making them possible and turning them into material things that I can see. I should always be able to give something to my mom, pay the crew and pay the rent. The name of the album came from that desperation. I felt like I had to hustle like back when I started in 2010. Desperate times, desperate measures.
How did you and Shaney Jay meet?
Shaney Jay: We met in 2019 at a show. My friend told me Youngsta was in the parking lot so I went to go and take a photo with him and a year later, he opened up the studio and I was told he wanted to see me and here we are today. I had been producing for about 6 years before that. When Youngsta listened to my production on songs like Shane Eagle’s ‘AMMO’, he sent for me and it’s been a pleasure working with him so far.
Do you have a favourite feature on the album?
YoungstaCPT: Every song captures each person’s quality, personality and skill set. But, the song with DJ Ready D and Emile YX from Black Noise does something to me. This is probably the first time they make a song together and for me, it’s the significance of the song and what the two as pioneers of Hip Hop mean to us as Capetonians.
As a South African product, what is different about your Y?GEN clothing line?
YoungstaCPT: It’s not really dictated by trends, it is meant for someone who dresses according to what they like. In Cape Town, just because everyone wears something, it doesn’t mean we’ll all wear it, we have a certain image and specific style (there’s a whole documentary about this) and I’ve brought that into my clothing line, my raps and into the music videos too. I don’t dress like a rich rapper, I’ve kept my style grounded and kept to what I like.
Describe music in your own words…
Shaney Jay: It’s a feeling, if you make a hyped up song, you feel hyped, if you make an emotional song, you feel emo. That’s why us as creators play a big role in how the listener will feel, music is about feelings.
Would you say your highlight of 2021 is the album?
YoungstaCPT: I would say the Street Fever deal, acting in and having my music played on Blood & Water (S2) and of course, the new album.
I’ve never intentionally put word out of what I’m busy with. I want my work to speak for itself and that’s how I’ve maneuvered my career so far.
Let’s talk The River, how did you land the role of Zolani?
I have had engagements with MNet for a while now, having d done Clash of The Choirs and All Access Mzansi. They were trying to get me on a drama series and they’d send me scripts but nothing resonated with me. I then got called in to audition for Cobra’s role initially but everything happens as it should as that character is now played by Presley Chweneyagae. The writer’s then wrote a part for me that I read and loved, that’s how the character Zolani was born.
What was the highlight of your childhood?
A primary school play I was in, The Jungle Book. I landed a role of a pigeon and had one line throughout the whole show. The hall was full of students and parents. When I said my line, the crowd exploded! That was the moment I knew I like attention. Then throughout the rest of the play, I’m flying in and out of scenes I wasn’t supposed to be in. That was when the seed was planted.
How do you wish to impact the South African entertainment industry?
Through credibility, authenticity, breaking barriers and altering stereotypes. I’ve always wanted to be known for my craft and my work. I want to be “Mr sexy” with my shirt on. Careers such as Meryl Streep’s and Denzel Washington’s are what I aspire to, their work comes before their physical appearance and that’s amazing.
Describe a typical day for you?
My day starts at 3:30AM. I wake up, pray and meditate and have a quick workout session. I then take a shower and get ready for work. I’m usually on set at 6AM, then by 7AM/8AM my team gives me updates on what I’m doing for the rest of the week. Then I’m on set and get my fencing lessons done afterwards. Once I get home I catch up on emails then spend time with my family, loved ones and do the boyfriend Olympics thing, lol.
Your favourite career moment so far?
Everything I work on is my best “thing”. Every job you’ve seen me do was intentional. I’ve always wanted to carve out a certain path out to maintain a career I am proud of. Actually, the character Zolani is a celebration of my brother and friend Mzwandile, it’s also about the culture and people I grew up around ekasi. People resonate with shows they see themselves in.
Something you’ve learnt while working during a pandemic?
I’m proud of the decisions I’ve made throughout my career and this made the pandemic slightly easier. On the business front we did however suffer some losses. In the greater scheme of things, it’s all about preparation, the more prepared you are, the more you become ready to face anything. When the pandemic hit, I was able to identify opportunities within it over the tragedies.
Any final closing words of wisdom for your fans?
There’s no manual to life, everyone is figuring it out. There’s more than enough room for all of us and the more we collaborate, it makes us better as a people and we can leave something behind for the next generation. No one is coming to save you but don’t discount the goodness of people. Try to be the best version of yourself because the best person to meet is you, this will resonate with other people. Be selfish with your time and the things you want for yourself and don’t forget to experience joy in moments.
What is the message in your new single ‘Kutheni Na’ featuring Kwesta?
I am venting, talking about how I feel and what I’m going through. There are so many things happening and sometimes I find myself not understanding how to make sense of all the changes we’re going through. It’s all about me being honest with myself. I want people to be okay with not being okay. Kwesta also came on and was honest too in the song and I appreciate that.
Your forthcoming ablum, ‘Mnyama’, tell us the process it took to create this body of work?
When I began making these songs, it wasn’t an album. I just needed to say something and express myself. I decided this year to make an album with all these songs I made during lockdown. The process was about my journey and how I feel. I wanted to be vulnerable and bare. It was about showing my emotions throughout the songs. I needed to be gentle towards myself and I believe it will resonate with people when they listen.
Your journey so far, a highlight that stands out?
Winning my first awards in 2017, such as the SAMAs. Working with the likes of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Anthony Hamilton as well as being nominated for a BET award (hearing Nomzamo say my name at the BETs was everything) and being on the Essence stage (it was virtual but amazing). It’s only my fifth year in the industry but it’s been a beautiful journey so far.
What would you say the South African music industry is doing right in 2021?
I’m seeing artists being fearless, owning themselves and the work they do and it’s going to ripple-effect into owning our stake in the industry. Artists have not taken the ownership as playmakers in the industry but I see it happening now. This is our industry, whatever happens is on us.
Where in the world would you still love to perform?
Everywhere in the world, lol. I’d absolutely love to perform at Madison Square Garden.
What would you say is your ex-factor?
My spirit, it’s the one thing that stands out across the board with every hat that I wear.
Consistency, how do you maintain it?
The people I keep around me, my team and the people that know me push me and keep me consistent. I love what I do and that also keeps me consistent because I remain myself always.
Pick one, money or a man?
I would pick “the man”.
How do your fans play a role in your life?
My fans literally come up to me and tell me how they relate to my music and how it heals them. All the love and support they show me is encouraging, I truly appreciate them.
John Amos / American Actor, Director, Author & Philanthropist
After so many years in the industry and an amazing career, how do you still keep going?
What keeps me going is that there are still so many good stories to tell. I always read my scripts first to see what kind of story I will be telling, all my work has to be of substance and mean something.
Your son KC works closely with you, could you share information on the Kicking It with Pops project?
Kicking It with Pops is a project from my son KC’s point of view about my life so far. He sheds light on the amazing career I’ve had, my travels, my experience in sports, my childhood as well as experiences until now. There’ll also be appearances from some of my close friends such as Jamie Foxx and Anthony Anderson, it’s truly set to be entertaining.
What do you think actors should take into important consideration in today’s filmmaking age?
They should take advantage of technological advances. Actors such as myself did not have such growing up. They have a distinct advantage in carving their future and they should use whatever they can to grab those special moments that they see playing out right in front of them.
How has Hollywood shown you the divide between black actors compared to other races?
That’s stuff from so long ago, I’d rather not look back to 40/50 years ago. Right now I see filmmakers of all races and genders who are doing amazing things and it’s great to watch.
How do you keep focused to your character on set as you shoot?
The best way to keep focused for me is through eating some good home-cooked meals, haha. When we shot Coming 2 America recently in Atlanta at The Tyler Perry Studios, and it was always a bit chilly so I’d enjoy the tasty warm meals on set and just keep going.
You’ve mainly played positive black fathers in your roles, what does that mean to you?
Playing positive black fathers creates a balance for all the other negative roles and bad imagery that’s been out there, it means a lot to me. On the other side of this, I urge that young black men stay safe out there and always be respectful, everybody wants to go home at the end of the day.
Your favourite work so far?
One is the biopic my son KC is currently creating as director, the second would be Halley’s Comet, I love the entertainment value and educational value in it. There’s also Kicking It with Pops, we’ve got some great content coming that will keep the viewers entertained.
What would you like to say to South African filmmakers?
The future of filmmaking lies in Africa and South Africa is doing amazing work, some wonderful stories about your heroes and heroines are being brought to viewers all over the world. We’ve also all still got a lot of traveling to do, it’s eye-opening and it’s inspiring.
It’s been so interesting, I’ve been doing music professionally since 2009.
Favourite artist you’ve collaborated with?
That’s a tough one, everyone I’ve worked with has something special about them, I can’t pick a favourite.
When did the love for music begin?
My journey began at about 10/11 years. I started writing raps and formed a group at school where we’d perform for other students, I developed so much love for the art. In university I perfected my craft, I took the time to invest in proper recordings and also put out my music online, that’s when everything caught fire.
What about the Nigerian music industry would you say still needs to be fixed?
A proper structure that looks out for creatives has to be built. Royalty collection for instance, creatives need to be protected in that regard. It’s intellectual property that needs to be protected.
Any favourite African country you’ve traveled to?
South Africa, it’s the most developed. The infrastructure is proper and the outlook of the city is great, it’s good to see.
Any advice for aspiring artists on the come-up?
Just have fun, music is meant to be enjoyed. Be passionate about it, be hardworking and truly enjoy yourself.
You’re a creative, any other things you’d like to branch out to?
There are indeed many layers to me. I’m a lawyer, an actor and have recently become a filmmaker. During the pandemic last year, I launched my film company where I get to tell African stories, stories about us beautifully to the world. I’m also getting to a point in my life where I’m all about impact in people’s lives.
Any new music you’re releasing?
I don’t have a name or date yet, but I have an album coming out in the next two months.
Laduma Ngxokolo / Designer / MaXhosa Africa Brand Owner
Your brand MaXhosa Africa, what would you say is its ex-factor?
The patterns, which is what makes it distinctive and recognizable by consumers. The quality too.
How long did it take you to get to where you are today?
This was always my life plan. I’ve been in the industry for 10 years now, since the start of the business, this was always the plan, and I just didn’t know it would get to where it is now, as quickly as it did.
Coming 2 America, how did the collaboration happen?
The costume designer Ruth E. Carter contacted me two years ago and told me she’d been following my work for some years and would love to collaborate with me. A month later, she contacted me again and told me she’s working on the Coming 2 America movie and would love to work with me. Of course I said yes. The movie is a classic and the work I’ve showcased will still live on even after my time.
How does a typical day look for an international brand such as yours?
I wake up and get to work at 7AM every day, by then everyone is already at work when I arrive. All the departments usually have meetings the entire day and we make sure we’re always aligned.
As a business, what have you taken from the pandemic?
One of the lessons I learned is that saving is very important and knowing where you are positioned as a business in the industry. Human Resources is very valuable within a business and the sustainability of a business comes a lot from how the employees are treated.
What would you say South Africa is doing right in the clothing/textile industry?
The labour laws, we’re doing that right. Financial support from the government we’re doing right and a lot of designers are defining their own DNA and we’re standing out as a country.
Ever get creative block or lack of inspiration?
I hardly ever get those…instead, I get too many ideas to produce so I have had to learn how to cut down and focus on certain things at a time. I still design everything myself but I’m training my team to assist with that.
Any collaborations you’d still like to take on?
Yes, more within the lifestyle space. Crockery brands, appliances brands, etc.
Any inspirational advice you’d like to give to people seeking to be in your industry?
Know what your purpose is. Whatever path you choose will determine your level of passion for it. Education plays a big role in knowing the industry you operate in. Work hard, that even beats talented people when they are not working hard enough.
Shannon Earle Esrechowitz (better known as Shannon Esra) / Actor, Writer & Artist
How did your journey in the industry begin?
I was 15 years old when I began presenting for TV. A year after that, I was cast in ‘I Dreamed of Africa’ with Kim Basinger, thanks to my high school Drama teacher, Janet Bayliss and South African casting agent, Christa Shamberger-Young.
You’ve played so many characters on South African television, how do you prepare for each role?
I approach every script the same way – I read it three times: firstly, to get a feeling for the story; secondly, as an investigator – looking for clues about my character – what are people saying about her, what does she say about herself, what are her fears, passions and motivations; and then thirdly, for pure enjoyment. Then it’s a matter of collaboration with the various departments. Who is she? How does she dress? What does she look like? How does she move? I like to work with the elements and the animal kingdom to root the energies of the people I portray. It’s a fun process. It really is like moulding clay.
Lioness is currently on MNet on Thursdays, what can viewers look forward to in the storyline?
The revelations at the end of every episode are so powerful! But other than that, I really cannot say…can’t set off any “spoiler alerts”!
You’ve been on prominent and loved TV shows such as The River, Gomora, The Throne, and Isidingo…how does an actress maintain consistent work in the industry?
Honestly, by the grace of God. Everything that comes to us, as human beings, is what the universe needs us to experience. I believe each job comes by way of what I need to encounter.
What do you love about acting?
I love how I get to experience another human being on any given day; how I am granted access into other worlds and mind-sets; how I get to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and by virtue of that, I get to stretch my capacity for love and understanding. Acting is very holistic, for me, personally. I can play pretend and create other worlds. It’s the best job on the planet!
One talent people don’t know you have?
I can tie a cherry stalk into a knot with just my tongue.
What do you hope to ultimately achieve in 2021?
Tranquility and peace of mind. I would love to shoot a couple of movies, maybe another series or two, and also, the odd painting here and there. That would be great!
“Entertainer, businessman within the lifestyle entertainment industry. My job is to extract monetary and other types of values out of the brand Stoan and use the products I create as vehicles for it. My business is majority shareholder in the Stoan brand.”
Currently working on?
I’ve had to narrow down my focus down to a few things because even with a hundred lifetimes, I could never reach my full potential. To be excellent, I need to narrow down my focus. I’m continuing to record music but more as a hobby, compared to it being an occupation. I own a gin now, Native Gin. I also work with Magents Lifestyle Apparel in the brand marketing space, it’s a family thing. TV shows also do come but that’s not my main focus at the moment.
Artists are still in an unpredictable phase right now, how do you stay motivated?
I think it’s key to not no plan too far, compress my plan and execute within a period of about 2-4 weeks. You should be able to execute because things can change so quickly now due to the pandemic, daily and weekly goals are vital, you won’t be challenged when your 6-month plan fails. You can’t aim too far ahead but at the same time upping my skills. Graphics, videos, still images I’ve been doing myself. Staying busy…I’ve got 3/4 music videos done, 7/8 features done already and working on more. Stay working and stay positive about the future. Rather stay positive than negative about what the future holds.
You’ve come a long way as a talented all-round creative artist, what’s your winning formula?
It can be a gift and curse to be an all-rounder because you end up being a jack of all trades and a master of none. I’ve tried to keep the skills that can benefit other aspects in my life, such as my TV presenting skills benefitting my MC skills and vice versa. My SeTswana work in terms of my music benefits my presentation when it comes to doing other cultural activities. The key is finding a central point, if it’s something that’s outside, it takes away from my time and we only have 24 hours and 365 days in a year to do what we need to do.
Of all the projects you’re involved in, can you pick a favourite…and why?
There’s 2 projects right now that are working well together. Magents and Native Gin, I’m really enjoying the journey. These are spaces where my opinions and contributions are respected and valued, I’m learning a lot from people who have already invested years and have made the mistakes that I don’t need to make. I’m fast forwarding learning and standing on their shoulders as giants. I enjoy learning and gaining new skills.
Bongo Maffin is a huge part of your DNA, what has being in a band taught you?
Being in a band has taught me about compromise, you can never really have everything go 100% your way. You’ve got four headstrong people who feel that their approach is the right approach. If you understand that you all have the same intentions behind it all then you learn to be more empathetic and see things from another person’s perspective. I’ve learned about teamwork and rising to the highest level and pulling up everyone else to create a “5th mind” that is stronger than all of us combined.
Describe music in your own terms…
Because of the last 100 years of the music industry, music has now become competition instead of it becoming or staying a mission. Music has become a competition, we are now counting whether an artist is impactful according to their numbers, and not according to how much soul, wisdom and value they impart to society, our souls and towards changing the world. That’s what music and arts as a wider discipline is supposed to be about, you’re supposed to teach, reach and inspire.
You’re an inspiration to many…but who inspires Stoan?
I’m inspired by God and the universe, the wonder that this whole design is. At a micro level, I’m inspired by the positive human beings around me, the ones who have tasted defeat and snatched victory at the jaws of defeat, people who didn’t have an easy way to victory, and people who fell and dusted themselves off to find new ways to get to where they are going. Like how a ship sets off with an orientation point but constantly has to reset its sail as the winds change. Another inspiration is my mother who was a young divorcee that made great sacrifices to raise me, as well as my grandmother too. Many other people too, Jay-Z’s story inspires me, South Africans here as well, the youngsters who continue to make things happen, guys like Cassper. People who have gone against the odds, Oskido is also a big one too, a lot of people can point out his contribution to their come-up. My environment, South Africa – our story and continuing struggle inspires me
A dream you’d still love to achieve?
One of my reasons for waking up, my “why”’ is I want all my four girls to have a life that is set up already by me. The first car, first property and so forth, should be provided by me. Most of my dreams centre around my family, giving them a better life and better opportunities to launch from a higher launchpad. All of us have a finite amount of fuel, so the difference between us are the opportunities we are afforded by our parents through sacrifice and hard work. I want to win, I want to be successful in all the projects I’m involved in, I want to make millions of rands and have another wave of success in life, as I’ve already had many waves of success. I’m still dreaming like I’m nineteen.
What do you think the future of the South African entertainment industry holds for upcoming talent?
The new South African industry is already here. It’s an industry for an artist who is more scientific in their approach, an artist who is paying keen attention to the rhythm, the urban flow and tides of their market development. The market development will be key where an industry of 100 people paying you R1000 is more valuable than 1000 people paying you R100. These are people that are more invested, a more hand-in-hand process when an artist is developing a product between himself and the fans, the fans have a buy-in before the product is out, because you’re already consulting them about different things. There will be a closer relationship between the consumer and the product developer who is the artist, it makes for more integrity in the industry, because there is no more bullshitting and no more gimmicks, it’s more about authenticity where then you have a higher equity. More gimmick type artists are going to fall by the way side and all that will be left is the real essence of what artistry, entertainment and expression is all about.
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