The Johannesburg-based company will handle their artists and repertoire (A&R), artist management and marketing and the winner will access a wide network of Kalawa artists and alumni.
Launched in the early 90’s as an independent music label, Kalawa Jazmee has earned a legendary status as a hit factory as well as a cradle for talent. They have discovered, produced and managed some of the biggest names such as Boom Shaka, Bongo Maffin, Mafikizolo, Thebe, Trompies, Busiswa, Zonke and Tamara Dey. For decades, Kalawa Jazmee has been giving generations of South Africans the soundtracks of their times. Their contribution to the development of Kwaito as a music genre is undeniable. With so much street cred, the label is best positioned to harness its network and alumni to support our Idols SA winner.
Nomsa Philiso, the director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net, toasted to the news: “The new deal with Kalawa Jazmee ushers in a new era of entertainment and growth for the Idols SA contestants and this is an exciting partnership. They have proven to be on the pulse of local youth culture and we have no doubt that the Idols SA winner will find a space that will allow them to thrive and conquer the tough music industry. We also wish to express our gratitude to Gallo Records, who nurtured our previous winners in the past three years with great success.”
Speaking for Kalawa Jazmee, DJ Oskido remarked: “We are excited to bring a Kalawa Jazmee blueprint that has produced new talent that went on to be super stars. We’re looking forward to a new intake of University of Kalawa Jazmee students in a form Idols winners, and to create South Africa’s next star.”
Boasting a formidable arsenal of young producers under the guidance of legendary Kalawa Jazmee directors in Mandla “Spikiri” Mofokeng, a genius in composition and scoring; and Bruce Sebitlo a mixing and mastering guru, the Idols winner will be in good hands. Also in the stable are Zynne “Mahoota” Sibika and Emmanuel “Mjokes” Matsane who bring music creativity gravitas.
Kalawa Jazmee is an essential cog in the South African music industry. They continue to lead the way in newer genres such as Afro-House and Amapiano. With a proven track record for nurturing talent, our Idols SA winner and possibly some in your Top 10 will receive the gold-standard, Kalawa Jazmee star development process offered by their Academy to train them in music production. A collaboration with a star signed to the company is also a possibility.
Season 16 of Idols SA broadcasts on Sundays at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic Channel 161. Get exclusive updates and a behind the scenes look at all the action right here on our site. Don't forget to join the conversation by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #IdolsSA.