Zakes Bantwini says musicians should acknowledge Hlaudi Motsoeneng’s impact on local radio

Grammy-winning musician Zakes Bantwini has expressed his perspective on the influence former SABC chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng had on South African radio. During a recent media roundtable, when asked about structural changes needed in radio stations to better support local music, Bantwini offered an opinion many may find controversial.

Bantwini argued that South African musicians should recognize Motsoeneng's contribution to changing the broadcasting landscape in the country. Motsoeneng, who served as SABC COO, was known for introducing a 90% local music quota on public broadcaster radio stations, a policy that later came under scrutiny and was eventually scrapped. However, Bantwini believes the impact of this policy should not be underestimated.

He stated, "Because the radio was never the same after 90%. There were so many radio stations that were so American when you listened to them before that 90%. But after the 90%, even though it was scrapped by the time it was scrapped, there was proof of concept that South Africa can listen to its own music." For Bantwini, the conversation about local music quotas should not only focus on what listeners enjoy; he emphasized the need to view South African music as an industry that contributes to the economy and creates employment.

Bantwini pointed out that the success of local musicians has a ripple effect, benefiting not just the artists but also producers, dancers, lawyers, accountants, stylists, and publicists. He urged radio stations to provide more opportunities to local music, as this would help sustain the broader creative economy.

Moreover, Bantwini encouraged emerging artists to take their careers seriously by understanding both the creative and business aspects of the music industry. He stressed the importance of education, becoming familiar with radio requirements, and understanding how the industry operates. He also advised aspiring musicians to seek legal guidance before signing contracts, to protect their interests in an industry where business decisions can have lasting consequences.