Eight of South Africa’s best music artists and bands have signed up for Huawei Durban Day with East Coast Radio on October 23. Locnville, Kyle & Shekinah, Beatenberg, TiMO ODV, Matthew Mole, AKA, Nasty C and Freshly Ground are set to wow fans at People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Speaking about the event, Andre and Brian Chaplin from Locnville said: “We just can’t wait to perform! This is our first Durban Day, so we can’t wait to show everyone what we have in store!”

The singer-songwriters and producers are household names on the local electro hop music scene and they are promising KZN fans an extraordinary experience.

“A proper party with all the songs you know and love. You’re not going to want to miss this!” says Brian, adding, “There’s such a fantastic energy in KZN that you can’t find anywhere else.”

Apart from rehearsing for Huawei Durban Day, the brothers are working on releasing new music and focusing on their own label, CB. They are also involved in new production pieces for other artists.

Durban neo-soul group, The Audinarys, who won the #BeTheBand contest will kick off the celebration of local music.

“Our main goal is just to make music that people  can relate to, that also has a message behind it, and most of all just have fun while listening to it,” says Dave Audinary (aka Gavin Bowden).

Dave has been in the music business for the past 12 years serving as producer to many artists. He teamed up with Aaron Fynn three years ago. Both are ecstatic about taking their energy and talent to the Huawei Durban Day stage.

“Being that we have been singing for three years now, the platform would be perfect for us to become a household name in Durban, and South Africa, and hopefully the world,” says Dave.

“At this point in time, there’s no stopping us. With regards to the prizes, the equipment are a blessing as we don’t have much live equipment except for a guitar and keyboard. We program our drum and bassline in our productions. I think we’re ready to make Durban and South Africa proud!”

Speaking of their passion for performing and crafting music, Dave says: “Any musician will tell you that music isn’t something you choose, it chooses you. It’s the ability to speak to the heart of someone across the world that you don’t know, and yet connect with. It’s the joy of knowing that you speak for a voice that sometimes isn’t able to.”

Security will definitely be top of mind. The improved measures include:

• This year, Durban Day is exclusively a day-event. Gates open at 10am and the first act takes to the stage at 11am. The curtain will come down at 5pm.
• Entry to People’s Park will now be managed through one entrance only, following the same procedure that was rolled out during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This includes heightened security measures including the use of metal detectors.
• Only a limited number of tickets are available this year. By decreasing the number people attending the event, the station has ensured better crowd control and an improved overall experience for concert-goers.
• Bars will close two hours before the end of the event and stricter controls have been put in place in the dispensing of alcohol.

Tickets are R200 from Computicket. Free entry for children under 3.

 

 

 

Things to bring with you on Huawei Durban Day

Your loved ones: Great music and great company – can you think of a better way to round off your weekend? Gather your friends and family and come and celebrate South Africa’s music talent!

Your picnic basket: Pack your favourite favourites, deck chairs, a picnic mat, sit back and relax. Food, family, fun and of course fab local music – it’s the recipe for a perfect Sunday.

Your voice and your groove: Nobody minds if you can’t sing like a pro because everyone will be singing along to their favourite hits with their favourite artists. Come to have fun. Sing as loudly as you want. Dance like your hero’s watching.

Sunblock, sunhats and sunglasses: The combo of great music and good fun can raise temperatures, so come prepared. Leave your umbrellas and gazebos at home though, as these will not be allowed into the venue.

Your selfie self: Apart from your smile, your phone will be your best accessory for Huawei Durban Day! You won’t be able to resist the “selfie spell” as you would want to share pics of the amazing time you’re having with those who can’t be there with you. Be sure to use #HuaweiDurbanDay in your Tweets and Facebook posts.

 Your Proudly KZN badge: As much as Huawei Durban Day is about celebrating South African music, it is also about celebrating and being thankful for the unique lifestyle we are lucky enough to enjoy here in KZN. We’re talking about our fab weather, wonderful people and chilled weekend vibe!