DSTV festival jells music and food
WeekendLife
Beautiful people, tantalizing cuisines and the best of the best in the music industry, both local and international under one roof for two days.
That’s what DSTV Delicious International Food and Music Festival offers every year. What makes it different this year? They went all out. Pulled out the best international acts to come and grace the event, the top chefs to serve and a fun filled ambiance. DSTV Delicious International Food Festival- South Africa, is an annual premier lifestyle event and for the last three iterations, the prestigious Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit played host to the festival.
This year the event was slated for the 21st and 22nd of September, with promises of world class acts, delectable mouth-watering foods and the best security to top the cherry. As promised, DSTV Delicious delivered.
WHAT WAS OFFERED
Having in previous years since its inception, hosted some of the biggest names in the culinary and music worlds, the likes of US songbirds Erykah Badu, Macy Gray and MasterChefs SA Judge Pete Goffe-Wood, chef Reza Mahammad, local acts such as the late Hugh Masekela and the iconic South African kwaito music group, TKZee; it was interesting to see what the festival had in store for this year’s event.
FOOD
So what did DSTV have in store this year? Dynamic, explosive entertainment, and the food? Exotic, scrumptious, lip-smacking foods that can tickle any foodie’s taste buds. World renowned chefs came through trying to outdo each other with freshly prepared foods and desserts. The likes of the much talked about in the food world, ‘The Lazy Makoti’ author and chef, Mogau Seshoene came through to show off their exceptional cooking skills.
There were also pop up stalls and food trucks offering scrumptious foods and beverages for ticket holders. Some of the foods, all the way from Thailand, South Korea, Nigeria and many other parts of the world. These foods were not only a great experience for first timers of the event but may also have been a little too exotic and adventurous but it is a good way to learn of different traditional foods around the world.
MUSIC
The festival reeled in top local headlining artists such as the Shimza, the dynamic trio of MiCasa, the African sensational group, Mafikizolo, not to forget the man who sells out stadiums, Cassper Nyovest, just to mention a few. And just when you think that the organizers and their partners can’t top that, they bring in international artist and American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer, Raphael Saadiq.
Who has been a standard bearer for "old school" R&B since his early days as a member of the multiplatinum group Tony! Toni! Tone! And to top it off, the breakthrough British act of 2006, Corinne Bailey Rae to serenate the crowd. The entertainment was of top notch, heart pounding, stage-breaking performances, and the crowd’s response was evidence that DSTV Delicious International Food and Music Festival 2019 had outdone themselves in entertaining the masses gathered at Kyalami.
This year more than 20 000 socialites and media personalities graced the event which attracted diverse nationalities who were there to flaunt their hand crafted outfits and designer jaw dropping garments.
Lounges
The DSTV festival spoilt their VIP patrons with a wide array of choices. The lounges played host to the elite, the rooms filled with exquisite, comfortable furnishings allowing people to sit at ease while being waited on hand and food and also getting the best view to the stage. Great views, best services, delicious food, top notch entertainment, befitting for VIPs.
It was easy to bump into famous faces, the likes of renowned controversial television and radio personality, Somizi Mhlongo and his fiancé Mohale Motaung. The lovebirds seemed to enjoy the festival immensely, blending in and making conversation with everyone.
Other South African celebrity personalities like Anele Mdoda and J’Something were some of the many well-known faces that you can rub shoulders with in the lounge area.
THE FASHION
In a crowd of different tribe and nationalities, definitely everyone is likely to throw in a bit of their native attire, but that was not the case, everyone came dressed up and all colorful. Some were in their bump shorts, some in their summer dresses, jeans and the dominating fashion accessory were the sunglasses, perhaps because of the African sun.
Some kept it simple and glamorous, some were feminine, sultry and striking. Some kept it safe and monochromatic, most women threw in colorful and gorgeous make up and everyone there had defined their own style. Although many people threw in glamour and glitz, it still went well with the event. You could enjoy your drinks draped in a long dress and some sneakers. It still fitted the occasion.
ABOUT DSTV FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL
DStv Delicious International Food & Music Festival first took the entertainment and culinary world by storm in its debut in Johannesburg in October 2013. 40 000 visitors over the two-day festival could indulge in the best food and music Johannesburg has to offer.
DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival has hosted some of the biggest names from both the culinary and music worlds. The festival celebrates 7 years of excellence and growth this year, serving nothing but the best in entertainment and food, across three different stages, 10 hours of entertainment per day, a variety of beverages to suit any palette and diet, and they still have much more in store for the attendees!
Basically, what DSTV Delicious aspired to was to bring the world to you and you to the world, through good food and music. The two things that connect each and everyone regardless of who you are and where you from. This, they have accomplished yet again with the most successful event yet of 2019.
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BOTSWANA TO HOST MISS WORLD 2026
Even though Botswana has over the years been performing extremely poorly at the Miss World competition, the country has confirmed that it will be hosting the beauty festival in 2026. Initially, the country was to host Miss World next year, something it failed to confirm before deadline. Director at Miss Botswana, Benjamin Raletsatsi, says Botswana will be ready then to host all participants. Miss Botswana Top 25 finalists left the boot camp yesterday. Quite shocking though, Miss Botswana team is still failing basics as responding to media inquiries on time yet it is dangerously hoping to host an event of high status
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DJ Sway ‘saved’ the YAMAs
DJ Sway, the daring and ambitious on-air presenter of Yarona FM, played a crucial role in saving the radio station’s music awards, known as the YAMAs. The event was initially dry and disorganized, but DJ Sway, who co-hosted with Pearl Thusi, injected life into the show. However, things took a turn for the worse when Pearl Thusi abruptly left the stage, leaving DJ Sway to carry on alone. Despite the unexpected setback, DJ Sway rose to the occasion and captivated the audience, effectively putting an end to the drama caused by Pearl Thusi.
In an exclusive interview after the YAMAs, DJ Sway revealed the behind-the-scenes chaos that unfolded during the event. He acknowledged the script editors, Phalana and Hope, who worked tirelessly to reedit the script and adapt it to a one-host format. Despite the last-minute changes, DJ Sway remained composed and focused, thanks to the support of his colleagues, such as Owen Rampha, Katlego Rakola, Tshepang Motsisi (DJ Easy), and LB.
When asked about his initial reaction to the unexpected turn of events, DJ Sway admitted to feeling saddened by how things ended. However, he credited Pearl Thusi for giving him a much-needed confidence boost during his moment of doubt. She reminded him that he was destined for greatness and that he didn’t need big stars to succeed. With her words of encouragement, DJ Sway regained his composure and approached the rest of the show with the same professionalism and charisma he displays on the radio.
To overcome the challenges he faced, DJ Sway relied on his radio skills and calm personality. He engaged with the audience as if he were speaking to a single person, pointing out individuals in the crowd to create a more intimate connection. He also expressed gratitude for his backstage team, who provided support and ensured the smooth running of the show.
DJ Sway expressed satisfaction in being seen as the saving grace of the YAMAs. He believed that he fulfilled his role as a host and brought joy to the Yarona FM board, his family, and his fans. Despite his success, DJ Sway’s journey has not been without hardships. He has experienced the loss of his mother and sister, which has left a lasting impact on him. While he continues to grieve, he seeks solace in therapy sessions and relies on his father for emotional support.
DJ Sway’s dedication to his craft and ability to overcome adversity make him a remarkable figure in the radio industry. His vibrant personality and deep knowledge of music have made him a perfect fit for Yarona FM. Despite the challenges he has faced, DJ Sway remains determined to make a positive impact and bring joy to his listeners. With his talent and resilience, there is no doubt that DJ Sway will continue to thrive in his career and leave a lasting legacy in the world of radio.
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Chef Gustos walk of shame
Chef Gustos, the renowned hitmaker, recently experienced what can only be described as a walk of shame at the 8th edition of the Yarona FM Music Awards (YAMAs). Despite being nominated a whopping seven times, he failed to secure a single win. Ouch!
The night was filled with surprises, drama, and controversy, but the biggest winner of the evening was Han C, who walked away with three awards, including Best Pop and Best Male Single for his hit song, “Sebinki.” Han C graciously announced that he would be donating P10,000 from his winnings to his fellow nominees, promoting a spirit of togetherness among artists. What a noble gesture!
Meanwhile, Chef Gustos found himself on the losing end of several categories, including People’s Choice Artist of the Year, which he had won in the past. He seemed unfazed by the loss, stating, “People know that ‘Away’ was big, but they won’t stop me.” It’s clear that Chef Gustos is determined to continue making music, regardless of the awards he receives.
However, he did express his frustration with the outcome, suggesting that the awards may be corrupt. He declined to comment further, citing the need to protect his brand and maintain good relationships with corporate clients. It’s understandable that he wants to avoid any potential damage to his future prospects.
In fact, Chef Gustos went so far as to request that Yarona FM not nominate him for future YAMAs. It seems he wants to distance himself from the disappointment and focus on his music without the pressure of awards. Perhaps this decision will allow him to create freely and without the burden of expectations.
While Chef Gustos may have experienced a walk of shame at the YAMAs, it’s important to remember that awards do not define an artist’s talent or success. His fans still appreciate his music, and he continues to have gigs with corporate clients. So, despite the disappointment, Chef Gustos remains optimistic about his future in the industry.
In the end, the YAMAs may have been a letdown for Chef Gustos, but he’s determined to keep moving forward. He won’t let a lack of awards dampen his spirits or hinder his creativity. And who knows, maybe next time he’ll come back stronger and prove that he’s deserving of recognition. After all, the true measure of an artist’s success lies in the hearts of their fans, not in shiny trophies.