In a move that blended cultural influences and fostered international collaboration, the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism, alongside partners One Groove, Nirox, and AUTOR, announced the Ama Groove Songwriting Camp. Held from April 6th to 13th, 2024, the initiative brought together 14 exceptionally talented music creators from both South Africa and Denmark.
The Ama Groove Songwriting Camp provided a platform for artists to delve into cross-cultural exploration and artistic interpretation. With a focus on mental health, cultural awareness, and creativity, the week-long camp offered collaborative songwriting sessions, workshops, and networking events. Held amidst the scenic beauty of Nirox in the Cradle of Humankind, Joburg, participants immersed themselves in an environment conducive to creative expression and personal growth.
Curated by industry professionals Muniye, AusTebza, and Elu Eboka, the selection process prioritized talent, passion, commitment, and self-resourcefulness. The resulting cohort reflected a diverse array of musical genres and gender identities, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for artistic exploration.
Co-director of Riky Rick Foundation and wife to the late Riky Rikhado shared this about the initiative when it started: “Ama Groove Songwriting Camp, which links beautifully with the 2024 instalment of Cotton Fest Joburg, is yet another form of promoting the unearthed talent that our country has bred. It also gives us great pleasure to facilitate these safe spaces of connection and creation – something that Riky was incredibly passionate about. We welcome the participants from Denmark to Johannesburg, South Africa and wish them and our local producers a fruitful and inspired time during the Songwriting Camp.”
Rasmus Allin, Co-founder of One Groove, added, “At One Groove, we see music as a powerful force for change. Our work towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable music industry resonates deeply with the ethos of the late Riky Rick and the Riky Rick Foundation. This shared vision has led to the collaboration and establishment of the Ama Groove Songwriting Camp. An initiative that provides a safe space and a nurturing environment where music creators from Denmark and South Africa can converge, collaborate, and craft music that authentically captures their individuality and cultural essence.”
Featured Image: uBeyond on Instagram
Leave a Reply