THE South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) will now play 90% local music across its 18 radio stations.
This is to ensure that local content reflecting the diversity of South African cultures is prioritised.
Local artists have long called for the percentage of South African music on community or public radio stations’ playlists to be increased.
Many argue that without radio airplay they are unable to grow an audience and thus cannot sell records.
Engagement with audiences will be made in due course to evaluate the response and ensure that the decision was worthy.
The music to be played would be across all genres, with a special focus on genres such as kwaito, jazz, reggae and gospel. In addition, the SABC will play more music from legends in the industry and up-and-coming artists.
‘Our respective radio stations will not be confined to playing local music which is language specific, we want to come to a point where any of our 18 radio stations can become a home for all South Africans,’ said SABC chief operations officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng.
‘This cross-pollination of music is very important for the public service broadcaster, because part of our mandate is to reflect the South African story and music is an important part in ensuring that the SABC fulfills this mandate.’
To promote local content on television, the broadcaster will use local music fillers between programmes.
From July, the SABC will increase its local content offering on television. Recently the broadcaster called on independent and emerging producers to come up with fresh proposals and content.
