Music Exchange #MEX24
Sat Nov 30, 09:00 - Sat Nov 30, 16:30
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town
ABOUT
The 14th edition of Music Exchange is a one-day conference jam-packed with 8 stellar speakers.
The conference welcome is by award-winning Siphokazi Jonas, who has just published her debut book by Penguin Random House, "Weeping Becomes a River".
We then have our esteemed thought leader, investigative journalist and film writer/director/producer, Diana Neille, who will attend and deliver the keynote address at this year's Music Exchange Conference (#MEX24) being held on 30th November, from 9 am to 4:30 pm in Cape Town.
Her highly anticipated keynote – A Reporter's Notes on Intermediary Impunity: Can the South African Music Industry be Reformed? – will be one no one invested in the entertainment business should miss.
The multi-talented Columbia University Masters graduate will discuss the dark underbelly of the South African music industry, how intermediaries have crippled the sector for decades, and what changes could and should put music makers (singers, musicians, songwriters, composers, independent producers and publishers) at the core of the business, where they belong.
Diana Neille is an award-winning South African investigative journalist, filmmaker and documentarian known for her in-depth work on issues of corporate and political corruption, social justice, and coverage of the local music sector.
Her recent work on systemic corruption in the South African music industry garnered recognition at the INMA Global Media Awards.
Following Diana is Paris Toon from the USA -from Local to Global
Paris Toon is the Billboard charting award-winning entrepreneur and the musical enigma behind Mother's Favourite Child.
He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward-driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.
Paris started as a hip-hop producer and has done production and remix work for many platinum-selling projects. He has worked with George Benson, Carl Cox, Robin S., CeCe Peniston, Adina Howard, Atlantic Records, Warner Bros, Island Def Jam, Gucci, Christian Lou Boutin and many more.
After Paris, we have Glenn Gillis
Glenn is the co-founder and CEO of Sea Monster and the chairperson of Games for Change Africa. Glenn is a seasoned entrepreneur with 25 years of experience as a senior executive and consultant in the creative industries. He is an expert on technology's role in storytelling and a thought leader on how impact games and immersive technologies (AR & VR) can be used to build brands and drive effective learning outcomes in Africa and beyond.
Glenn will speak about Games, the evolution of engagement
Lance Stehr is next, talking about The importance of Diversification while dealing with your passion
One of South Africa's most prominent independent record labels, Ghetto Ruff, was established in the late 1980s when Lance Stehr (current managing director) formed Cape Town-based hip-hop pioneers Prophets Of Da City (POC). Their fusion of African and American ideas was crucial in crafting the sound of SA hip-hop.
Stehr expanded and grew the label into the premier kwaito label in the country. R&B star Ishmael was born out of POC, and in 1996 helped Ghetto Ruff Records discover and nurtured numerous Kwaito stars, resulting in hundreds of awards.
Ghetto Ruff has since maintained its standards of understanding current trends and talent selection. Many artists under Ghetto Ruff have been nominated for awards, gained international exposure and progressed in their music, business and production careers.
The label has been home to talents such as Malik, Jozi, Zola, Bongani Fassie, Bricks, Pitch Black Afro, RJ Benjamin, Ishmael, Gumshev, Da L.E.S, Young Uz, Ruff X and more.
Muthaland Entertainment, the sister company of Ghetto Ruff, is perhaps one of the most successful recording stables in South Africa, having paved the way for many artists who went from nothing to stars.
Jon Savage speaks about Podcasting: The Bitcoin of Media Influence
This is to talk about how podcasting is disrupting the mainstream media and creating a decentralised economy for podcasting and content creators- tracking global and African trends and showcasing opportunities
Director of INBROADCASTING
Founder of the AFRICAN PODCAST NETWORK and AMPD STUDIOS
Content Strategist for HAVE YOU HEARD
He is so passionate about what he does that he mostly cannot remember which part is work and which part is play.
Brendan "Spike" Ballantine will speak about – Leveraging Audio Production for Success in Podcasting
Brendan, the founder of dbo Media, amplifies podcasting's strengths by developing creative concepts that help shape an engaging narrative.
We combine that with high technical and sound design excellence for a memorable listening experience.
Barry Mare is closing the day, talking to What does Radio want?
Barry is a content producer for Cape Talk and 702 and will give great insights about what you can do to get into broadcasting.
About MEX
At our core, MEX is a veritable teacher, delivering critically needed skills to the entertainment economy. It serves the greater good of all stakeholders by promoting and fostering prosperity and sustainability within the Arts sector and beyond.
A vibrant, world-class South African music industry is premised on successful homegrown talent intent on attaining global reach and international acclaim.
At #MEX24, we ensure the successful sharing of experiences and knowledge of keynote speakers with creatives participating in panel discussions, workshops, and showcases. After all, we can all do with inspiration and global best practices to apply immediately in our professional lives.
We bring together the finest local and international Thought Leaders to address a range of topical and relevant issues the industry faces today. Think podcasts, radio, collecting agencies, PR, marketing, and monetising the entertainment economy – now and into the future.
The power of the network
It's time to scrub up, head out and socialise. Wouldn't it be refreshing to escape social media for a day or two and relish real-life conversations with fellow creatives?
Great music. Great content. Great people.
At only R150 for full access to all #MEX24 has to offer, the value and the calibre of content, and those delivering it, is unmatched.
Music Exchange 2024 (#MEX24) Conference – 30th November 2024 - Protea Fire and Ice Hotel in Church Street in Cape Town.
SPEAKER PARIS TOON
Paris Toon is the Billboard charting award-winning entrepreneur and musical enigma behind Mother’s Favourite Child. He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward-driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.
Paris started as a hip-hop producer and has done production and remix work for many platinum-selling projects.
He has worked with George Benson, Carl Cox, Robin S., CeCe Peniston, Adina Howard, Atlantic Records, Warner Bros, Island Def Jam, Gucci, Christian Lou Boutin and many more.
His influences range from Prince, Quincy Jones, Dr. Dre and Kanye West. These influences are evident in his compositions and many of his lyrics. As newer artists came about, Paris’s inspiration grew in even broader directions while still holding firmly to the musical pioneers from the past.
His writing style has the genres of R&B/Soul, Funk, Jazz, Dance, Hip Hop and Rock to a level unfamiliar to most, provoking intense curiosity and appreciation for the “next phase of business and music”.
With these inspirational forces embedded in his spirit, Paris Toon has set out to push his business and music to the front lines.
DIANA NEILLE
We proudly announce our second highly esteemed thought leader, investigative journalist and film writer/director/producer, Diana Neille, who will attend and deliver a keynote address at this year's Music Exchange Conference (#MEX24) being held on 30th November, from 9 am to 4:30 pm
Her highly anticipated keynote – A Reporter's Notes on Intermediary Impunity: Can the South African Music Industry be Reformed? – will be one no one invested in the entertainment should miss.
The multi-talented Columbia University Masters graduate will discuss the dark underbelly of the South African music industry, how intermediaries have crippled the sector for decades, and what changes could and should put music makers (singers, musicians, songwriters, composers, independent producers and publishers) at the core of the business, where they belong.
Diana Neille is an award-winning South African investigative journalist, filmmaker and documentarian known for her in-depth work on issues of corporate and political corruption, social justice, and coverage of the local music sector.
Her recent work on systemic corruption in the South African music industry garnered recognition at the INMA Global Media Awards.
Read her three-part series, Scratched Record, published over the past two years on Daily Maverick here:
Scratched Record, Volume I:
Scratched Record, Volume II:
An Embarrassment of Royalties (Part One): What can break the music industry's culture of impunity?
An Embarrassment of Royalties (Part 2) — Access to information lawsuit reveals music industry's underbelly
Neille has established herself as a significant voice in South Africa, tackling complex narratives often overlooked by mainstream media. She is a lapsed professional musician, having performed in orchestras, ensembles and bands since childhood. The highlight of her music career was a performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Background and Education
Neille holds a master's degree in journalism from Columbia University in New York, one of the most prestigious journalism programs in the world. Her education at Columbia has equipped her with a strong foundation in investigative techniques, narrative storytelling, and a global perspective on journalism.
Career and Contributions
Throughout her career, Neille has involved herself in projects that hold power to account and shine a light on injustice. She is notably recognised for co-directing INFLUENCE, a documentary which premiered in competition at the Sundance International Film Festival. Influence charts the recent advancements in weaponised communication by investigating the rise and fall of the world's most notorious public relations and reputation management firm: the British multinational Bell Pottinger.
The film was nominated for a Critics Choice and Canadian Screen Award and played at over 35 international film festivals.
Neille's journalism combines rigorous investigation with compelling storytelling. She has worked with several prominent South African media outlets and international partners, bringing local issues to a broader audience. Her projects often address themes like systemic inequality, environmental degradation, and the impact of corporate malfeasance.
Style and Approach
Neille's style is meticulous and investigative, marked by thorough research, nuanced interviews, and an ability to distil complex issues for her audience. Her work is known for its depth and clarity, often revealing the personal impact of political or environmental issues on ordinary people. She frequently collaborates with other journalists, filmmakers, and activists to produce impactful and insightful work.
Recognition and Impact
Diana Neille's journalism and documentary filmmaking contributions have earned her national and international recognition. Her work on Influence and other projects has placed her at the forefront of investigative journalism in South Africa. She fosters greater awareness and accountability on critical issues affecting South Africa and beyond through her films and articles.
Key Themes
? Music Industry Issues*: Highlighting issues related to the South African music industry and corruption within intermediary entities like record labels, collective management organisations and other organisations that purport to represent artists' interests.
? Social Inequality**: Addressing systemic injustices, economic disparities, and the social challenges marginalised communities face.
? Political and Corporate Corruption**: Exposing corrupt practices at the highest levels of government and the implications for democracy and public trust.
Diana Neille's work is a powerful example of journalism's role in promoting accountability, justice, and change. She continues to be a formidable force in South African media, advancing the field with each new project.
PRESS ARTICLE
https://mypr.co.za/keynote-speaker-for-music-exchange-announced-a-reporters-notes-on-intermediary-impunity-can-the-south-african-music-industry-be-reformed/
THE PROGRAM WITH ALL THE SPEAKERS
The 14th edition of Music Exchange is a one day conference jam packed with stellar speakers.
The conference welcome is by award winning Siphokazi Jonas who has just had her debut book published by Penguin Random House “Weeping becomes a river “
We then have our esteemed thought leader, investigative journalist and film writer/director/producer, Diana Neille, who will attend and deliver the keynote address at this year's Music Exchange Conference (#MEX24) being held on 30th November, from 9 am to 4:30 pm in Cape Town.
Her highly anticipated keynote – A Reporter's Notes on Intermediary Impunity: Can the South African Music Industry be Reformed? – will be one no one invested in the entertainment business should miss.
The multi-talented Columbia University Masters graduate will discuss the dark underbelly of the South African music industry, how intermediaries have crippled the sector for decades, and what changes could and should put music makers (singers, musicians, songwriters, composers, independent producers and publishers) at the core of the business, where they belong.
Diana Neille is an award-winning South African investigative journalist, filmmaker and documentarian known for her in-depth work on issues of corporate and political corruption, social justice, and coverage of the local music sector.
Her recent work on systemic corruption in the South African music industry garnered recognition at the INMA Global Media Awards.
Following Diana is Paris Toon from the USA -from Local to Global
Paris Toon is the Billboard charting award-winning entrepreneur and the musical enigma behind Mothers Favorite Child.
He is an extraordinary business entrepreneur, songwriter and producer who never seems to stray for a moment from his forward driven vision of success in the music world and beyond.
Paris started out as a hip-hop producer and has done production and remix work for many platinum selling projects during his career. He has worked with the likes of George Benson, Carl Cox, Robin S., CeCe Peniston, Adina Howard, Atlantic Records, Warner Bros, Island Def Jam, Gucci, Christian Lou Boutin and many more
After Paris we have Glenn Gillis
Glenn is the co-founder and CEO of Sea Monster, and the chairperson of Games for Change Africa. Glenn is a seasoned entrepreneur with 25 years of experience as a senior executive and consultant in the creative industries. He is an expert on the role that technology plays in storytelling and a thought-leader on how impact games and immersive technologies (AR & VR) can be used to build brands and drive effective learning outcomes in Africa and beyond.
Glenn will speak about : Games the evolution of engagement
Lance Stehr is next -The importance of Diversification while dealing with your passion
One of South Africa's largest independent record labels, Ghetto Ruff was established in the late 1980s when Lance Stehr (current managing director) formed Cape Town-based hip hop pioneers, Prophets Of Da City (P.O.C). Their fusion of African and American ideas was crucial in crafting the sound of SA hip-hop.
Stehr was able to expand and grow the label into the premier kwaito label in the country. R&B star Ishmael was born out of POC and in 1996 helped Ghetto Ruff Records discover and nurture numerous kwaito stars, resulting in hundreds awards. Ghetto Ruff has since maintained its standards of understanding current trends and talent selection. Many of the artists under Ghetto Ruff have been nominated for awards, gained international exposure and progressed in their music, business and production careers.
The label has been home to talent such as Malik, Jozi, Zola, Bongani Fassie, Bricks, Pitch Black Afro, RJ Benjamin, Ishmael, Gumshev, Da L.E.S, Young Uz, Ruff X and more.
Muthaland Entertainment, sister company of Ghetto Ruff, is perhaps one of the most successful recording stables in South Africa, having paved the way for many artists who went from nothing to stars.
Jon Savage speaks about : Podcasting: The Bitcoin of Media Influence
This is to talk about how podcasting is disrupting the mainstream media and create a decentralized economy for podcasting and content creators- tracking global and african trends and showcasing opportunities
DIRECTOR of INBROADCASTING
FOUNDER of the AFRICAN PODCAST NETWORK and AMPD STUDIOS
CONTENT STRATEGIST for HAVE YOU HEARD
He is so passionate about what he does, he mostly cannot remember which of it is work and which of it is play.
Brendan “Spike" Ballantine will speak about -"Leveraging Audio Production for Success in Podcasting”
Brendan is founder of dbo Media amplifies podcasting’s strengths by developing creative concepts that help shape an engaging narrative. We combine that with a high level of technical and sound design excellence for a memorable listening experience.
Closing off the day is Barry Mare “What does Radio want “
Barry is a content producer for Cape Talk and 702 and will give great insights about what You can do to be on radio
SPEAKER LANCE STEHR
Lance Stehr is next -The importance of Diversification while dealing with your passion
One of South Africa's largest independent record labels, Ghetto Ruff was established in the late 1980s when Lance Stehr (current managing director) formed Cape Town-based hip hop pioneers, Prophets Of Da City (P.O.C). Their fusion of African and American ideas was crucial in crafting the sound of SA hip-hop.
Stehr was able to expand and grow the label into the premier kwaito label in the country. R&B star Ishmael was born out of POC and in 1996 helped Ghetto Ruff Records discover and nurture numerous kwaito stars, resulting in hundreds awards. Ghetto Ruff has since maintained its standards of understanding current trends and talent selection. Many of the artists under Ghetto Ruff have been nominated for awards, gained international exposure and progressed in their music, business and production careers.
The label has been home to talent such as Malik, Jozi, Zola, Bongani Fassie, Bricks, Pitch Black Afro, RJ Benjamin, Ishmael, Gumshev, Da L.E.S, Young Uz, Ruff X and more.
Muthaland Entertainment, sister company of Ghetto Ruff, is perhaps one of the most successful recording stables in South Africa, having paved the way for many artists who went from nothing to stars.