Listeners:
Top listeners:
play_arrow
Techno Radio Top Music Radio
play_arrow
London Calling Podcast Yana Bolder
DJ Maphorisa did hint that he and Kabza De Small would be taking things to the next level for this year’s Scorpion Kings Live — and they delivered a world-class live show.
On Saturday, September 19, more than 74,000 fans filled the iconic FNB Stadium for Scorpion Kings Live, turning the venue into a massive celebration of South African music and culture.
Thousands of fans came together for the sold-out concert, which celebrated the sound that has travelled from the townships of South Africa to stages across the world.
FNB Stadium is no stranger to hosting major international concerts, from Global Citizen and Chris Brown to Travis Scott, and Scorpion Kings Live matched that standard.
The Scorpion Kings — Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa — and their organising team appeared to have learnt from last year’s concert at Loftus Stadium, making sure that many of the issues experienced previously were not repeated.
There were several ways for fans to get to FNB Stadium, including the Gautrain, Park and Ride buses and e-hailing services.
Those who used e-hailing services entered from the Nasrec Cemetery main entrance side and had to walk for around 10 to 15 minutes to reach the stadium gates.
Once at the gates, the VIP and hospitality lines moved quickly, with helpful security and ticketing staff on hand. The general entrance, however, had to be closely controlled at times as some patrons pushed to get through.
The Gold Rush Dome entry and exit were a slight bummer, with the tunnel leading directly to the dome presenting some issues. Security officials did not allow Gold Rush ticket holders or media without accreditation tags to enter or exit unless they were being escorted.
Media, artists and Gold Rush Dome hospitality ticket holders were hosted at the Gold Rush Dome, where the food was one of the highlights.
There were plenty of options to choose from, while the space was kept clean throughout the event. Complimentary food and drinks were available throughout the concert, adding to the overall hospitality experience.
The general bars were constantly busy but remained controlled, with staff managing queues and ensuring there was enough space for people to move around.
There were some spilled drinks around the general bars, but they were easily accessible from all blocks and appeared to have plenty of stock on hand.
The Scorpion Kings made a grand entrance into the stadium, parachuting onto the FNB Stadium grounds and immediately grabbing the attention of the thousands of fans waiting to see them.
And the entrance set the tone for what would follow.
Scorpion Kings Live gave fans the opportunity to hear some of their favourite songs performed live by artists who have soundtracked different moments of their lives and created memories for them.
With more than 70 artists and performers taking to the stage, patrons were certainly spoilt for choice.
Thatohatsi’s performance was one of the most anticipated of the night, with the vocalist currently making waves in the South African music scene.
However, her set was marred by microphone problems and inconsistent sound.
At times, the sound appeared to project high-pitched noises, making it difficult to pick up parts of some songs until the crowd joined in.
Kabza De Small gave the people what they wanted, and more.
The Amapiano star played the piano live, but it wasn’t an ordinary piano setup. The musician took it up a notch with a flaming piano (a controlled stage effect), adding another memorable visual moment to the show.
Young Stunna also continued to prove that he is a stellar performer, giving his all on stage and leaving the crowd in awe.
Legendary musician Ringo Madlingozi proved that age is just a number and that he still has the star power that made him one of South Africa’s most iconic musicians.
His performance shook the FNB Stadium, quite literally, as thousands of fans sang along at the top of their voices.
The musician’s dance moves also had him trending online, with a newer generation getting a taste of exactly why their parents loved him so much.
DJ Maphorisa’s love for the Gusheshe — the BMW E30 325i/325iS — was brought to life through his iconic entrance.
The producer rode onto the stage in a red Gusheshe, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
His mother also returned to the Scorpion Kings Live stage to deliver a moving prayer to open the main show.
However, some souls clearly needed their own intervention, as two women got into a fight during the prayer. They seemingly could not wait for the final “Amen” before throwing hands.
From the very opening moments, Scorpion Kings Live made it clear that this was not simply a collection of performances.
The show was structured across three chapters — heritage and memory; people and sound; and the hood and the world — giving the massive production a sense of purpose beyond the performances themselves.
It was a celebration of where South African music comes from, where it is now and how far it has travelled.
Scorpion Kings Live ended at around 11.00pm, later than the advertised 10.30pm finish.
For some patrons, finding the Gautrain buses and e-hailing services after the show proved to be a hassle.
The Park and Ride shuttles, however, were seamless, with dedicated parking areas and clear signage making the journey home easier for those who had opted for the service.
Scorpion Kings Live proved that South African artists can deliver productions that stand alongside major international shows.
This was more than just a concert. It was a celebration of South African music, culture and the sounds that have travelled from local townships to audiences around the world.
And after seeing what Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa pulled off at FNB Stadium, it becomes clear why fans rushed to secure their tickets and why the show ultimately sold out.
EFF president Julius Malema has taken aim at the ANC and MK Party, declaring that “Mandela is no more” and that young people, rather than former leaders, represent the future.Malema was speaking at the EFF’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Manifesto Rally in Inanda on Saturday ahead of the November 4 local government elections.“Mandela is no more. You can't be voting for President Zuma. He's too old. He's not the future. The future […]
Magic 828 AM is a South African commercial radio station playing the best of hits from the 80s, 90s and 2000’s
Don’t miss a track or memorable tune. Download the Magic828 App now on your mobile phone by clicking here!
