Maftown Heights, South Africa’s premier hip-hop festival, is excited to announce a new 4-part documentary series titled ‘Maftown Heights Untold Stories’. Premiering this Saturday, 15 June 2024, at 16:00 on Channel O, with weekly episode releases, the series delves into the rich history, cultural significance, and behind-the-scenes moments of one of Africa’s most iconic music events.
‘Maftown Heights Untold Stories’ chronicles the festival’s journey from its modest beginnings to becoming a major force in African hip-hop. Through exclusive interviews, never-before-seen footage, and personal stories from artists, organizers, and friends, the documentary offers an intimate look at the festival’s impact on the music industry and its role in shaping the careers of numerous celebrated artists.
Executive produced by Khuli Chana and Refiloe Ramogase, and co-produced by RefRam Productions and Molotov Cocktail, with a musical score by Towdee Mac, the documentary celebrates the hip-hop culture that has both influenced and been influenced by South Africa’s diverse communities, particularly Maftown. It also underscores the importance of storytelling in preserving Africa’s culture, history, and identity.
“Maftown Heights Untold Stories has been in development since 2020. It’s a labour of love and a tribute to the cultural tapestry that has shaped South Africa’s music scene. We aim to honor the legacy of the artists who have inspired generations, some of whom are no longer with us, and to provide a platform for their authentic voices to be heard. We believe it will resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers, offering a deeper understanding of the festival’s significance and its role in the broader cultural landscape,” says Refiloe Ramogase, co-founder of the Maftown Heights festival and executive producer of Maftown Heights Untold Stories.
Maftown Heights has always been more than just a stage for me; it’s a homecoming, a place where the roots of my music and my journey are celebrated. It’s an honour to present the Maftown Heights Untold Stories. This documentary is a celebration of the incredible talent, passion, and community that define Maftown Heights,” expresses Khuli Chana, Maftown Heights festival co-founder and executive producer, Maftown Heights Untold Stories.
Key Highlights of the Documentary:
- Origins and Evolution: Gain insight into the origins of Motswako and its growth into a mainstream cultural force. Discover the inspiration behind Maftown Heights and how it grew from a few hundred in attendance to an African phenomenon, highlighting key milestones and memorable performances.
- Artist Stories: Hear from some of the biggest names in African hip-hop, including Cassper Nyovest, K.O, the late Riky Rick and AKA, as they share their personal connections to the festival and how it influenced their musical journeys.
- Cultural Impact: Examine the festival’s contribution to promoting SA hip-hop and a culture of collaboration, fostering unity, and creating a platform for emerging talents.
- Behind-the-Scenes: Get an insider’s perspective on the dedication and hard work that goes into organising Maftown Heights each year, featuring interviews with the festival’s founders, MCs, crew and event partners.
There will be a private media screening this Thursday, 13 June 2024 in Johannesburg, where five lucky fans and their partners will get a chance to attend and have a meet and greet with Khuli Chana and some of the key voices represented in the documentary. Make sure to follow Maftown Heights on social media for more on this opportunity and see sneak previews from the upcoming 4-part ‘Maftown Heights Untold Stories’ documentary airing on Saturday’s at 16:00 on Channel O.
- Part 1 – 15 June 2024
- Part 2 – 22 June 2024
- Part 3 – 29 June 2024
- Part 4 – 6 July 2024
Cast
25k, AKA, Ayanda MVP, Brad Holmes (Founder Bassline), Carmen Hobbs, Carpo, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Sabby, DJ ZanD, Eze Lap, Focalistic, Gigi Lamayne, JR Bogopa, K.O, Kabelo Mabalane, Kahn Morbee, KayGizm, Khuli Chana, Lection, Lowena Waries (Former Channel O Marketing Manager), Maglera Doe Boe, Max-Hoba, Mo Molemi, MsCosmo, Nomsa Manale (Maftown Heights Project Manager), Phil Prinsloo (Founder and CEO Eyethu Security), Refiloe Ramogase, Riky Rick, Shirley Mabiletja (Former Absolute Brand Manager), Sibu Mabena (Founder of Duma Collective), Stoan Seete, Thabo Mabe (Chief Director of Arts and Culture North West), Towdee Mac, Zazboy.
Connect with Maftown Heights:
Facebook: Maftown Heights
X: @MaftownHeights
Instagram: @MaftownHeights
TikTok: @MaftownHeights
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